Sofia Martinez
Plastic plumbing pipes are often coiled for delivery, which can make them difficult to straighten out for installation. There are several methods to straighten plastic plumbing pipes, including using hot water, heat guns, or hair dryers, or by leaving them in the sun. In addition, some plumbers recommend bending the pipe back and forth every half metre or using clips to hold the pipe in place.
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What You'll Learn
Using hot water
To straighten the pipe, first, unravel the coil and lay it out flat. It is important to ensure the pipe is fully uncoiled and as flat as possible. Next, run hot water through the pipe. This can be done by hooking up a connection to one end of the pipe, which can then be attached to a tap that runs hot water. The hot water will reshape the pipe, making it straight. After running hot water through the pipe, it is advisable to run some cold water to ensure the pipe remains straight.
Another method using hot water involves boiling a kettle of water. When steam starts coming out, place one end of the pipe onto the kettle's spout so the steam goes directly into the pipe. Leave it for about five minutes, then slowly bend the pipe into the desired shape. Allow the pipe to cool completely before use, and pressure test it to ensure it can withstand water pressure.
It is important to note that using hot water to straighten plastic plumbing pipes may not always be a permanent solution. Some pipes, such as coiled poly pipes, may revert to their curved shape even after being straightened with hot water. Additionally, be cautious when using hot water with PVC pipes, as they can produce harmful vapors and fumes when heated.
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Leaving it in the sun
Leaving plastic plumbing pipes out in the sun is a good way to straighten them. This method is best for people who are not in a hurry to use the pipes and have the time to wait for the sun to do its job. The process is simple: uncoil the pipe and lay it out flat in an area that receives direct sunlight. It is recommended to leave the pipe in the sun for a week or two. The length of time depends on the climate and the season. Warmer climates and summer seasons will require less time in the sun.
This method is best paired with another technique to speed up the process. One suggestion is to tie the pipe to a straight piece of timber or metal. This will help the pipe stay straight while it is exposed to the sun. Another option is to run hot water through the pipe. This can be done by connecting one end of the pipe to a tap that dispenses hot water. The hot water will help reshape the pipe, and running cold water at the end of the process will ensure that the pipe stays straight.
Leaving the pipe in the sun is a good option for those who do not want to risk damaging the pipe by using too much heat. Using a heat gun, for example, can cause the physical properties of the pipe to change, which may lead to breakage, cracking, or splitting. While the sun's heat is gentler, it is still important to monitor the pipe to ensure that it does not become too hot and potentially damaged.
It is worth noting that this method may not be suitable for all types of plastic pipes. Some pipes, such as poly pipes, are known for their flexibility and tendency to return to their coiled state. As a result, it may be challenging to achieve a permanent straight shape with this method. However, for those seeking a low-effort and risk-free approach, leaving the pipe in the sun is a good option to try first.
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Using a hair dryer
First, ensure that the pipe is in good condition by inspecting it for any cracks or damage. A damaged pipe may hinder its ability to hold its shape after being straightened, so it is important to start with a pipe in good condition. Prepare a clean and flat work surface where you can lay out the pipe. This will make the process easier and help prevent any potential damage to the pipe.
Next, plug in your hair dryer and turn it on to a suitable heat setting. Hold the hair dryer approximately three inches away from the section of the pipe that needs to be straightened. Evenly apply heat to that area, being careful not to concentrate the heat on one spot for too long, as this can cause the pipe to melt or deform, or become brittle and break. With your other hand, gently apply pressure to the pipe in the direction you want it to straighten.
It is important to work in a well-ventilated area when using a hair dryer to avoid inhaling any harmful vapors or fumes that may be produced by heating the plastic. Wear protective gloves and eyewear to shield your hands and eyes from the heat. Additionally, have a fire extinguisher or water supply nearby in case of accidental fires.
Finally, once you have achieved the desired straightness, allow the pipe to cool down before handling it extensively. You can speed up the cooling process by gently waving the pipe in the air or placing it in a cool environment.
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Clipping at short intervals
One user on the Screwfix Community Forum reported that they had to clip their 15mm plastic pipe at very short intervals to keep it straight. They also mentioned bending the pipe back and forth every half metre, being careful not to go too far to avoid buckling it.
Another user agreed that plastic pipework needs to be clipped at shorter intervals than copper pipe to stay straight. They suggested that warmth might help straighten the pipe, but it may not be entirely successful.
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Bending it back the other way
If you have bent a plastic plumbing pipe and want to straighten it, there are several methods you can try. One method is to use a large crescent wrench, tighten it to the bent area, and then bend the pipe back out. You could also try inserting a smaller pipe into the larger pipe and applying pressure by rolling it back and forth across the point you want to straighten. Alternatively, you can try using pliers or vice grips to slowly bend the pipe back into shape. If you have an anvil, you can whack the pipe over the horn to straighten it.
Another method is to use heat to soften the pipe and then bend it back into shape. You can use a hairdryer, holding it within 1-2 inches of the desired section of the pipe. As the spot heats up, slowly add pressure to the area you want to bend. You can also use a heat gun or hold the pipe over a gas stove flame, but be careful not to put the pipe directly into the flame. Remember to wear heat-proof gloves and safety glasses when working with heat, and always work in a well-ventilated area as PVC can produce harmful vapours when heated.
If you are straightening a coil, you can leave it outside in the sun, and over time, it will return to its original state. You can speed up this process by running hot water through the pipe.
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Frequently asked questions
There are several ways to straighten a plastic plumbing pipe. One way is to use a hairdryer or heat gun to apply heat to the pipe. Another method is to run hot water through the pipe while it is laid out flat. You can also try to straighten the pipe by leaving it in the sun for a week or two.
Straight plumbing lines create a neater installation compared to crooked or bent pipes. Straight pipes can also be installed faster, saving time and effort in the long run.
Plastic plumbing pipes, such as PEX or PVC pipes, often come in tightly coiled rolls, making it challenging to unroll them in a straight line. The natural bend in the pipes due to their packaging can make it difficult to achieve a straight installation.
Yes, one alternative is to use copper pipes, which are known for their durability and ability to stay straight. However, copper pipes may be more expensive and require more specialized skills for installation. Another option is to use clips or ties at short intervals to hold the plastic pipe in a straight position.
