Skip to main content
Stesso
Project

Solder the New Fitting — Apply the Solder

Beginner4 hours

Part of project

How to Solder Copper Pipes for a Permanent, Watertight Joint · Step 8 of 9

Helpful?

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.
309.0K views9.5K15 minutes
Got2Learn

613K subscribers

View Channel

FAQs

What type of torch is best for soldering copper pipes, and how do I know I'm applying enough heat?

The K Tool International Self Igniting Propane Torch Head is sufficient for most residential copper pipe soldering. You'll know you're applying enough heat when the pipe and fitting are hot enough to melt the Oatey Safe Flo Lead-Free Solder *by touching the pipe*, not the flame. The solder should then be drawn into the joint by capillary action.

What are the critical safety precautions I must take when soldering pipes indoors?

Always have a fire extinguisher nearby and remove any flammable materials from the work area, especially when using a torch. Ensure good ventilation to disperse solder fumes, and wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from splashes or heat. It's also crucial to turn off the main water supply before starting to avoid accidents and ensure pipes are dry.

Is it really necessary to deburr, ream, and thoroughly clean the pipes before soldering?

Absolutely. Deburring and reaming with a tool like the Husky 1-5/8 in. Inner/Outer Reamer ensures a smooth pipe interior for optimal water flow and prevents solder from being blocked. Thorough cleaning with sandpaper and applying Oatey H-20 Flux are critical to remove oxidation, allowing the solder to properly bond and create a strong, watertight seal.

What are the most common reasons a soldered joint might leak, and how can I avoid them?

Leaks often occur due to insufficient cleaning, inadequate heat application, or not using enough solder. Ensure pipes are shiny clean before applying Oatey H-20 Flux, heat the joint evenly until it can melt the solder, and feed enough solder to completely fill the joint. If a joint leaks, it must be desoldered, thoroughly cleaned, and resoldered.

Transcript
Hide

would have had to cut open the wall and redo it from inside the wall and obviously that would be a cost that I did not account for let alone the drywall repair that I would now be responsible for which speaking of drywall you can see yeah I did cut the drywall there I cinched it a little bit with my torch the saving grace with that is for one

Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.