So, you’re starting a plumbing or irrigation project and staring at an aisle full of white plastic fittings. Don’t worry — I’m Plumb, your plumbing sidekick, and I’ll break down the types of PVC fittings and help you pick the right ones without the headache.

 
The Main Types of PVC Fittings
Here are the most common fittings you’ll use in plumbing and irrigation projects:

1. PVC Elbows
Change the direction of flow (commonly 90° or 45°).
Ideal for tight corners in irrigation systems or indoor piping.
Link to our PVC elbows page.
2. PVC Tees
Split one water line into two.
Perfect for branching sprinklers or drip lines.
3. PVC Couplings & Unions
Join two pipes together.
Use couplings for permanent joins, unions for spots you may need to disconnect.
4. PVC Adapters (Male/Female Threaded)
Transition from slip connections to threaded pipes.
Great for connecting PVC to pumps or hose bibs.
5. PVC Bushings (Reducers)
Reduce from a larger pipe size to a smaller one.
Essential when stepping down irrigation zones.
6. PVC Caps & Plugs
Close off the end of a line.
Useful for seasonal irrigation or testing lines before expansion.
7. PVC Ball Valves
Control the water flow with a simple twist.
Use them to isolate irrigation zones or shut down a section for repair.
Link to our PVC ball valves page.
 
How to Choose the Right PVC Fitting
Choosing comes down to a few simple factors:

Project Type – Irrigation, drain/waste/vent (DWV), or pressurized plumbing.
Pipe Size – Match the fitting size to your pipe (½", ¾", 1", etc.).
Pressure Rating –

Schedule 40 PVC – Standard residential use, lower pressure.
Schedule 80 PVC – Higher pressure rating, often commercial or industrial.
Connection Type – Slip (glue) vs. threaded (screw). Slip is easier for beginners; threaded is better for future changes.
 
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Mixing CPVC and PVC without the right transition fitting (they don’t bond the same way).
Using indoor PVC outdoors without UV protection.
Skipping primer and cement — the shortcut always ends in leaks.
Guessing pipe size instead of measuring (Plumb’s rule: measure twice, glue once).
 
FAQs About PVC Fittings
Q: Can I use Schedule 40 PVC for outdoor irrigation?
A: Yes — it’s the standard choice. Just make sure it’s UV-rated if exposed.

Q: What’s the difference between slip and threaded PVC fittings?
A: Slip fittings glue directly to the pipe, while threaded fittings twist on and off for easy replacement.

Q: Are PVC fittings reusable?
A: Threaded fittings can be reused. Glued slip fittings? Once they’re on, they’re staying put.

 
Final Take from Plumb
PVC fittings don’t have to be confusing. Once you know your elbows from your tees and your Schedule 40 from Schedule 80, you’re set up for a leak-free project.

And hey — why chase fittings at three different stores? Plumbfounded has the largest selection of PVC fittings online, including those hard-to-find pieces the big guys never stock.

For reliable products, visit PlumbFounded.com or call 800-716-8820 to shop now.