Selecting the Right Push-on Fitting

To most people, the sound of having to repair plumbing is a nightmare. It sounds outright scary to think of having to join and repair pipes. While soldering copper is something that is possible to learn, when it is needed to be applied in the real world, people will find it challenging.

Fortunately, push on fittings have been developed to make things a lot easier.

How Push-Fits Work

There are three functions that a push-on fit is made for. First, it can be a collet that features a metal-teethed ring grasping the pipe. Second, it can be made up of multiple O-rings to create watertight seals. And third, it can be a locking mechanism holding everything together.

All the push-fits are made to be suitable with PEX, CPVC, and copper pipes. Additionally, push-fits can also be available as gauges, valves, supply kits, or irrigation fittings.

Push-Fit Concerns

A large percentage of all the push-fits created today has an approval to be used for permanent installations and concealed applications. But, even with this approval, many are still skeptical about using push-fits. A lot of people are used to thinking that push-fits are just short-term solutions for temporary repairs until a professional has been called to do the proper fixing.

These doubts about push-on fits can be attributed to the product’s track record absence. But, you should know that while push-on fits are quite new to the market, they have already established quite a name in terms of do-it-yourself plumbing.

Another contribution to people’s skepticism about push-fits is the way that it is made and the technology behind it. A lot of professional plumbers are not so sure about the ability of O-rings and steel teeth to secure connections for a long time. Actually, there has not been any record of push-fits failing at their job. In fact, many have found it helpful.

Tips for Installing Push-On Fits

To properly get the best benefits of push-fits, here are a few tips that you may want to consider:

• Do not ever use a hacksaw when trimming the fittings. It is always best to use proper pipe cutters. This is important to maintain and guarantee that the fitting will be smooth and free of leaks.
• Remember, you can install a push fitting even when the pipes are not dry. You only have to make sure that there is no water flowing and the pipe is drained as much as possible. Then, you can start working!
• While push-on fits are fast remedies, it is still a better option to not work too fast with them. You will run the risk of damaging the O-rings if you are working too quickly. You just have to twist the pipe firmly but slowly when inserting it in its right depth.
• When you want to be sure about the security of the connection, you may opt to use locking clips as an extra measure.
• Study the push-on fit that you are using. Some of them will have features like ‘twist and lock’ that may need to have their ends tightened using your hands.

So, when you are buying push on fittings, be sure to read the details on the package first before making your purchase.