5 of 10 beginner plumbing tips everyone should know

1 – PVC and CPVC are two different materials entirely.  Find out what you have and be sure! 

2 – CPVC is better for hot water, something to keep in mind if you are ever working with your water lines.  It does create a little extra thinking but running CPVC for hot water and PVC for cold water is how the professionals do it. 

3- PVC measures diameter from the inside of the pipe and CPVC measures from the outside of the pipe.  This trips up most DIY Plumbers because 1/2″ PVC pipes look like 3/4″ pipes, but it’s because the 1/2″ measurement is taken from the actual opening of the pipe.

4 – These cutters exist, they work on both PVC and CPVC, get them. 

5 – Not only do you have to select between PVC and CPVC, but when you get into all of the PVC you’ll notice there seem to be two of everything. DWV PVC and Schedule 40. DWV PVC can only be used for drains, waste or vents!  They are not meant for the pressurized running water lines … that is what Schedule 40 is for. 

We hope these tips will help you with your DIY plumbing project. If DIY isn’t your cup of tea don’t worry, we can handle all of your Tampa Plumbing needs. Check in next week for the last 5 of our DIY Plumbing tips.