Solder the New Fitting — Heat the Joint Assembly
Part of project
How to Solder Copper Pipes for a Permanent, Watertight Joint · Step 7 of 9
In this video
Apply a thin, even layer of flux paste to both the cleaned outer surface of the pipe and the inner surface of the new copper male threaded adapter. Slide the adapter onto the pipe. Using a propane torch, heat the base of the fitting, not the pipe itself. Once the fitting is hot enough that the flux sizzles, touch the lead-free solder to the joint seam. Capillary action will draw the molten solder into the joint, creating a watertight seal. Wipe away any excess solder with a damp cloth.
Goal: Attach new fitting securely
- The pipe and fitting will be extremely hot. Wear heat-resistant gloves and do not touch the joint until it has completely cooled.
- Heat the fitting evenly all the way around to ensure the solder flows completely into the joint.
Used in this video
- Propane Torch (brand: Not specified, Power Source: Propane, Special Features: Self-Igniting, Tool Type: Plumbing Tools) — Heating the copper fitting to melt the solder.
- Heat-resistant gloves (brand: Not specified, Tool Type: Safety Equipment) — Protecting hands from the heat of the torch and hot pipe.
- Damp Rag (brand: Not specified, Tool Type: Cleaning Tool) — Wiping away excess solder from the joint after it has been made.
846K subscribers
FAQs
What are the most important safety precautions when soldering copper pipes with a propane torch?
Always work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes from the flux and solder. Wear safety glasses and heat-resistant gloves, and keep a fire extinguisher or a bucket of water nearby as a precaution against accidental fires. Ensure no flammable materials are within the K Tool International Self Igniting Propane Torch's reach.
Is lead-free solder mandatory for plumbing, and why is flux so important for a good joint?
Yes, lead-free solder is legally required for plumbing potable water systems in most regions to prevent lead contamination in drinking water. Flux is crucial because it cleans the copper of oxidation and prevents new oxidation during heating, allowing the Oatey Safe Flo Lead-Free Silver Solder to flow properly via capillary action, creating a strong, watertight bond.
My solder isn't flowing into the joint, or it's beading up on the outside. What am I doing wrong?
This usually indicates insufficient or uneven heat. Ensure you are heating the fitting, not just the pipe, and letting the heat transfer until the copper itself is hot enough to melt the Oatey Safe Flo solder on contact, not the torch flame directly. Also, verify that all surfaces were thoroughly cleaned with 3M emery cloth and the HDX 4-in-1 Fitting Brush, and properly coated with Oatey H-20 Lead-Free Water Soluble Solder Flux Paste.
How difficult is soldering copper pipes for a beginner, and how much time should I allocate per joint?
Soldering is a beginner-friendly plumbing skill, but it requires some practice to master the heating technique. With proper preparation and the right tools like the K Tool International Self Igniting Propane Torch, a single joint can typically be soldered and cooled in about 5-10 minutes, not including initial pipe cutting and cleaning.
Solder the New Fitting — Heat the Joint Assembly
Part of project
How to Solder Copper Pipes for a Permanent, Watertight Joint · Step 7 of 9
In this video
Apply a thin, even layer of flux paste to both the cleaned outer surface of the pipe and the inner surface of the new copper male threaded adapter. Slide the adapter onto the pipe. Using a propane torch, heat the base of the fitting, not the pipe itself. Once the fitting is hot enough that the flux sizzles, touch the lead-free solder to the joint seam. Capillary action will draw the molten solder into the joint, creating a watertight seal. Wipe away any excess solder with a damp cloth.
Goal: Attach new fitting securely
- The pipe and fitting will be extremely hot. Wear heat-resistant gloves and do not touch the joint until it has completely cooled.
- Heat the fitting evenly all the way around to ensure the solder flows completely into the joint.
Used in this video
- Propane Torch (brand: Not specified, Power Source: Propane, Special Features: Self-Igniting, Tool Type: Plumbing Tools) — Heating the copper fitting to melt the solder.
- Heat-resistant gloves (brand: Not specified, Tool Type: Safety Equipment) — Protecting hands from the heat of the torch and hot pipe.
- Damp Rag (brand: Not specified, Tool Type: Cleaning Tool) — Wiping away excess solder from the joint after it has been made.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most important safety precautions when soldering copper pipes with a propane torch?
Always work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes from the flux and solder. Wear safety glasses and heat-resistant gloves, and keep a fire extinguisher or a bucket of water nearby as a precaution against accidental fires. Ensure no flammable materials are within the K Tool International Self Igniting Propane Torch's reach.
Is lead-free solder mandatory for plumbing, and why is flux so important for a good joint?
Yes, lead-free solder is legally required for plumbing potable water systems in most regions to prevent lead contamination in drinking water. Flux is crucial because it cleans the copper of oxidation and prevents new oxidation during heating, allowing the Oatey Safe Flo Lead-Free Silver Solder to flow properly via capillary action, creating a strong, watertight bond.
My solder isn't flowing into the joint, or it's beading up on the outside. What am I doing wrong?
This usually indicates insufficient or uneven heat. Ensure you are heating the fitting, not just the pipe, and letting the heat transfer until the copper itself is hot enough to melt the Oatey Safe Flo solder on contact, not the torch flame directly. Also, verify that all surfaces were thoroughly cleaned with 3M emery cloth and the HDX 4-in-1 Fitting Brush, and properly coated with Oatey H-20 Lead-Free Water Soluble Solder Flux Paste.
How difficult is soldering copper pipes for a beginner, and how much time should I allocate per joint?
Soldering is a beginner-friendly plumbing skill, but it requires some practice to master the heating technique. With proper preparation and the right tools like the K Tool International Self Igniting Propane Torch, a single joint can typically be soldered and cooled in about 5-10 minutes, not including initial pipe cutting and cleaning.