Connecting Copper Pipe — Cut the Water Line
Part of project
How to Install a Water Hammer Arrestor to Stop Banging Pipes · Step 3 of 5
In this video
When using a push-fit fitting with copper pipe, first use a pair of pliers to remove the plastic stiffener from inside the fitting, as it is not required for rigid copper and removing it maximizes flow. After cutting the copper pipe, use a deburring tool to clean any sharp edges from the inside and outside of the pipe's end. This prevents damage to the fitting's O-ring. Once the pipe is prepared, simply push it straight into the fitting until it stops, ensuring a secure connection.
Goal: Create a secure connection between a copper pipe and a push-fit fitting
- Removing the stiffener is crucial for maximizing water flow in copper pipe installations.
- Failing to deburr a copper pipe can scratch and damage the O-ring inside the fitting, causing a leak.
Used in this video
- Pliers (brand: none, Tool Type: Pliers, Power Source: Manual) — Removing the plastic stiffener from the fitting.
- Deburring Tool (brand: none, Tool Type: Hand tools, Power Source: Manual) — Smoothing the sharp edges of a cut copper pipe.
- Push-Fit Fitting (brand: none, Material: Brass, Purpose: Joining) — Joining sections of copper pipe.
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FAQs
How do I accurately identify the source of water hammer before installing the arrestor?
Listen carefully for the banging sound when a specific faucet, toilet, or appliance (like a washing machine) shuts off abruptly. You can also try gently touching the water lines near suspect fixtures to feel for vibrations when the noise occurs. Installing the arrestor as close as possible to the identified source will yield the best results.
What crucial safety steps must I take before cutting into the water line?
Always turn off the main water supply to your entire home first. Then, open the lowest faucet in your house (e.g., in a basement or outdoor spigot) and the highest faucet to completely drain the water from the pipes. This prevents unexpected water leaks and potential injury while you work.
Do I need special tools to cut copper pipes, and how do I ensure a leak-free connection?
Yes, a copper pipe tubing cutter (e.g., AUTOCUT 1/2 in.) is essential for a clean, straight cut. After cutting, use a reamer and deburring tool (like the Husky 1-5/8 in.) to smooth the pipe's interior and exterior edges. This deburring step is critical for proper sealing and preventing leaks, especially with push-to-connect fittings.
What's the best way to prevent leaks when installing the tee fitting and water hammer arrestor?
Ensure the pipe ends are perfectly clean, smooth, and free of scratches or burrs. Use a depth gauge (like the Tectite Depth Gauge) to mark the correct insertion depth on the pipe for push-to-connect fittings, ensuring it's fully seated. For the arrestor's threaded connection, apply several wraps of PTFE plumber's tape (Harvey 1/2 in. x 260 in.) clockwise to the male threads before tightening.
Connecting Copper Pipe — Cut the Water Line
Part of project
How to Install a Water Hammer Arrestor to Stop Banging Pipes · Step 3 of 5
In this video
When using a push-fit fitting with copper pipe, first use a pair of pliers to remove the plastic stiffener from inside the fitting, as it is not required for rigid copper and removing it maximizes flow. After cutting the copper pipe, use a deburring tool to clean any sharp edges from the inside and outside of the pipe's end. This prevents damage to the fitting's O-ring. Once the pipe is prepared, simply push it straight into the fitting until it stops, ensuring a secure connection.
Goal: Create a secure connection between a copper pipe and a push-fit fitting
- Removing the stiffener is crucial for maximizing water flow in copper pipe installations.
- Failing to deburr a copper pipe can scratch and damage the O-ring inside the fitting, causing a leak.
Used in this video
- Pliers (brand: none, Tool Type: Pliers, Power Source: Manual) — Removing the plastic stiffener from the fitting.
- Deburring Tool (brand: none, Tool Type: Hand tools, Power Source: Manual) — Smoothing the sharp edges of a cut copper pipe.
- Push-Fit Fitting (brand: none, Material: Brass, Purpose: Joining) — Joining sections of copper pipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I accurately identify the source of water hammer before installing the arrestor?
Listen carefully for the banging sound when a specific faucet, toilet, or appliance (like a washing machine) shuts off abruptly. You can also try gently touching the water lines near suspect fixtures to feel for vibrations when the noise occurs. Installing the arrestor as close as possible to the identified source will yield the best results.
What crucial safety steps must I take before cutting into the water line?
Always turn off the main water supply to your entire home first. Then, open the lowest faucet in your house (e.g., in a basement or outdoor spigot) and the highest faucet to completely drain the water from the pipes. This prevents unexpected water leaks and potential injury while you work.
Do I need special tools to cut copper pipes, and how do I ensure a leak-free connection?
Yes, a copper pipe tubing cutter (e.g., AUTOCUT 1/2 in.) is essential for a clean, straight cut. After cutting, use a reamer and deburring tool (like the Husky 1-5/8 in.) to smooth the pipe's interior and exterior edges. This deburring step is critical for proper sealing and preventing leaks, especially with push-to-connect fittings.
What's the best way to prevent leaks when installing the tee fitting and water hammer arrestor?
Ensure the pipe ends are perfectly clean, smooth, and free of scratches or burrs. Use a depth gauge (like the Tectite Depth Gauge) to mark the correct insertion depth on the pipe for push-to-connect fittings, ensuring it's fully seated. For the arrestor's threaded connection, apply several wraps of PTFE plumber's tape (Harvey 1/2 in. x 260 in.) clockwise to the male threads before tightening.