"I get confused about cpvc sizes. You say that yours is 'copper size' but then you say that it is 'schedule 40' which I always thought meant the same size as steel pipe like galvanized. Please help to understand?"
There are two "standard" sizes in CPVC. This makes it all confusing. There is the size that matches the outside diameter of copper. That is what we offer. There also is the CPVC that matches the size of steel pipe. With the CPVC fittings that we sell you simply add 1/8" to the size to determine the outside of the pipe. For example, (for the copper size that we sell) 1/2" CPVC's outside diameter is 5/8" and with 3/4" the outside diameter is 7/8". As far as schedule 40 is concerned, that indicated the thickness and pressure that it can take. Not the size. Schedule 40 CPVC, where it is allowed by code, is acceptable for residential plumbing.

"I've had a few female adapters break. What am I doing wrong?"
Many codes (such as UPC 1994 sec606.2.2) prohibit female PVC screwed fittings for water piping. The reason is, pressure is exerted outwardly, and eventually a female adapter can crack. We always recommend using male adapters (with metal female fittings rather than the other way around). Never use regular female adapters with pressures over one pound.

"Can I use CPVC pipe/fittings for compressed air or gases?"
Although some people use CPVC piping for compressed air or gases, we are not aware of any fittings manufacturer that recommends it. We feel it is dangerous and absolutely do not recommend it. Air is much more compressible than are liquids and could therefore cause a violent explosion.

"How long should I wait after I've used solvent on a CPVC fitting before pressurizing the system?"
In most situations, to be 100% sure of no leaks, we recommend waiting 24 hours before pressurizing a system.

"Do I really need to use primer as I have a 'one step' solvent?"
Primer is a mixture of solvents used to penetrate the pipe and fittings and start the swelling process ahead of the application of the solvent cement. We highly recommend that you use primer anyway.

"Do you have any information regarding a product called FlowGuard(tm)?"
Flowguard(tm) is a trademark of B.F. Goodrich's CPVC products. It normally has a yellow stripe on the pipe. There are other brands of CPVC.

"What about 'fast' or 'hot' PVC glues? Don't they glue faster?"
Normally the 'fast' or 'hot' CPVC glues have a faster set time. Cure time for most is still about the same. "Set" time is the initial period of swelling required to give the joint enough mechanical strength to be gently handled. "Cure" time is the total time period of required swelling for the joint to acquire enough strength that it can perform its job transporting materials through it at whatever pressure and temperature required without coming apart or leaking.

"Do you recommend using PTFE thread sealing tape on CPVC threads?"
Lasco Manufacturing says (when speaking about a similar plastic, PVC): "It is wrong to add excess bulk to a threaded joint by wrapping male threads in Teflon® tape. It is wrong to make over-tightening easier by using Teflon® tape..." We have seen much similar PTFE thread sealing tape used satisfactorily but cannot (due to liability potential) recommend that you use PTFE thread sealing tape (pipe dope designed for CPVC is acceptable).

"Do I have to do anything special when I'm gluing a CPVC valve?"
Before installation, make sure the valve is in the "open" position and all cemented surfaces are clean and dry. Install the valve following the established solvent procedure. A suitable support should be placed under the valve body to hold the weight of the valve. Be sure to adhere to proper curing times, and wipe off any excess cement that might have accumulated at the joint bead.

"Can I get a price break if I buy in volume?"
For 500 or more of the same fitting, we give you a 5% discount off of the above prices. With 2000 or more of the same fitting, you can take an additional 5% off.

"Do you offer British Standard Threads (BST) or metric fittings?"
Sorry, we only sell U.S. threaded fittings.

"Will CPVC pipe and fittings crack when it is frozen?"
Just like copper, it will. If your pipe/fittings will be subject to freezing then you might consider looking into PEX pipe.

"Can I glue CPVC if it is wet?"
All solvent cements have the ability to absorb some water and still perform well enough to affect an adequate joint. However, research shows that the presence of just 10% water in solvent cement can slow penetration and swelling by up to 65%. This joint with water inside will always be an inferior joint and subject to problems.

"Can I use CPVC glue on other plastics?"
We only recommend using glues manufactured for a specific plastic i.e. CPVC glue only on CPVC pipe.
Note: There are many plastics that cannot be glued at all; polyethylene, polypropylene, nylon, polybutylene, and other polyolefins.

Caution:
Do not use or test these CPVC fittings with any liquids not recommended by the manufacturer. Do not use these CPVC fittings with compressed air or gas systems. Modification of these fittings voids any warranty.

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