Potable Water Plumbing
- - June 09, 2025
What Are Wrought Copper Fittings? Let's Break It Down
So, you've probably heard the term "wrought copper fittings" thrown around at plumbing supply stores or maybe even on job sites. Sounds a bit high-tech, right? But what’s the real deal here?
Let’s simplify it and get right to the point—Plumb-style.
What Exactly Are Wrought Copper Fittings?
Wrought copper fittings are these seamless, factory-made connectors that you use to join copper pipes in your plumbing setup. The term "wrought" just means that the copper has been worked on—pressed, rolled, and shaped using some heavy-duty machinery.In simpler words: it’s copper shaped into things like elbows, tees, and couplings—not just melted and poured like you would with cast fittings.
What Sets Them Apart from Cast Fittings?
Let’s do a quick comparison, shall we?When it comes to choosing the right copper fittings for your plumbing system, understanding the difference between wrought copper fittings and cast fittings (such as brass or bronze)
- - June 06, 2025
Hey there! It’s me again, Plumb—your go-to guy for all things copper, leak-fighting, and wrench-wielding here at Plumbfounded. Today, let’s dive into the world of press fittings. You know, those cool copper connectors that don’t require any flames, flux, or a fire extinguisher on standby.
So, let’s get right to it: Are copper press fittings actually reliable?
Honestly? Yes, they’re super reliable—if you know what you’re doing.
What Are Copper Press Fittings?
Alright, let’s break it down. Copper press fittings are a flameless alternative to the old-school soldered fittings. No need to heat up the pipe. Instead, you just:1. Cut and deburr the copper pipe.
2. Slide that press fitting on.
3. Grab a press tool with the right jaw size.
4. Squeeze until you hear that satisfying click, and boom—you’ve got a leak-free connection in mere seconds.No torch required. Easy peasy! These fittings create a solid seal using a mechanical connection with O-rings.
Why Plumbers Trust Press Fittings
I’ve seen - - June 05, 2025
Hey there, it’s Plumb back again—your friendly neighborhood expert on everything leak-proof and plumber-approved! So, today, we’re diving into a question that pops up all the time: Are copper push fit fittings reliable? Or are they just another one of those TV plumbing gimmicks?
Let’s get into it, the Plumbfounded way.
What Are Copper Push Fit Fittings?
Alright, so copper push fit fittings, or push-to-connect as some folks call them, are these nifty little connectors that let you join copper pipes without needing any tools. Seriously, it’s as easy as pie!No soldering. No glue. No torch. No crimp tools. Just:
- Cut the pipe
- Deburr it (that’s fancy talk for cleaning up the edges)
- Push it in until you hear that satisfying clickAnd boom! You’ve got a leak-proof connection in seconds.
Brands like SharkBite are pretty popular, but there’s a bunch of other manufacturers out there making them too.
So, Are They Reliable?
In short, yes! Copper push fit fittings can be reliable—if you use them - - June 04, 2025
Hiya, it’s Plumb—your favorite plumbing mascot with a heart of gold and a toolkit full of wisdom. Today, we’re diving into a classic plumbing essential: copper fittings. Whether you're a seasoned pro or a first-time fixer-upper, this one's for you.
So, what are copper fittings? Let’s start with the basics.
What Exactly Are Copper Fittings?
Copper fittings are the connectors used to join pieces of copper pipe together in a plumbing system. They're the elbows, tees, couplings, and adapters that help your water go where it's supposed to—without leaks or drama.They're made from copper, a metal known for its strength, corrosion resistance, and ability to carry hot and cold water safely.
Think of copper fittings as the joints in a skeleton: they let everything bend, turn, and flow naturally.
What Types of Copper Fittings Are There?
Copper fittings come in many shapes and sizes. Here are the most common ones:Elbows – Change direction (usually 45 or 90 degrees)
Tees – Split flow into three directions
- - June 02, 2025
Copper fittings are typically made from a type of copper alloy, which means they’re almost entirely copper with small amounts of other elements mixed in.
Why? Because pure copper is too soft to handle the pressure of your plumbing system.
What Are Copper Fittings Made Of?
Most plumbing copper fittings are made from deoxidized high phosphorus copper C12200. That’s about 99.9 percent copper with just a touch of phosphorus. This improves weldability and corrosion resistance.Strong enough to withstand water pressure
Flexible enough to shape and join easily
Resistant to corrosion and scaling
You might also hear about:Type L or M copper used in pipes Type L is thicker
Wrought copper used in elbows, tees, and couplings
So no, you’re not getting 24 karat jewelry level purity, but you are getting fittings built to last decades.
Why Not Use 100 Percent Pure Copper?
Pure copper is soft. Really soft. That makes it great for sculptures and wires but not so great for fittings under pressure.Adding
