Cut Pipe and Install T-Fitting — Locate Position and Cut the Pipe
Part of project
How to Install an Air Chamber to Prevent Water Hammer · Step 3 of 7
In this video
Identify the water line where the arrestor will be installed (typically the line causing the most noise, in this case the hot water line). Use a PEX pipe cutter to make a straight, clean cut to remove a section of the pipe, creating a gap for the T-fitting. Use a deburring tool to smooth the inside and outside edges of both cut pipe ends. With a tape measure and marker, mark the correct insertion depth on both pipe ends according to the fitting's instructions. Firmly push the SharkBite T-fitting onto both pipe ends until they reach the marks, ensuring a secure connection with the open port of the tee facing upwards.
Goal: Install a T-fitting into the water line
- A straight cut is essential for a proper seal. A crooked cut can lead to leaks.
- Ensure the pipe is pushed all the way into the fitting until it reaches the depth mark.
Used in this video
- PEX Pipe Cutter (brand: Unspecified, Tool Type: Hand tools) — Cutting the PEX pipe.
- Deburring Tool (brand: SharkBite, Tool Type: Hand tools) — Smoothing the cut edges of the PEX pipe.
- Tape Measure (brand: Unspecified, Tool Type: Measuring tools) — Measuring the insertion depth for the fitting.
- Marker (brand: Unspecified, Tool Type: Hand tools) — Marking the insertion depth on the pipe.
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FAQs
How difficult is this project for a beginner, and is the 4-hour estimate accurate?
This project is rated beginner-friendly, but taking your time, especially with pipe cutting and compression fittings, is crucial. The 4-hour estimate accounts for preparation, potential draining time, and careful installation, so allow yourself ample time to avoid rushing and ensure a leak-free result.
What are the most common mistakes when using compression fittings, and how can I prevent leaks?
Leaks from compression fittings often stem from not deburring pipe ends properly, misaligning the nut, or over-tightening. Ensure pipe ends are smooth and square, hand-tighten the nut, then use a wrench for another 1/2 to 3/4 turn for a secure seal, being careful not to overtighten and strip the threads.
The guide lists multiple copper pipe cutters; which one is best for this project, and is a deburring tool essential?
A close-quarters tubing cutter or an AUTOCUT 1/2 in. cutter is ideal for working in tight spaces common under sinks or behind walls. Yes, a deburring tool like the Husky 1-5/8 in. reamer is absolutely essential to ensure a smooth, clean pipe end for leak-free compression fitting connections.
What are the most important safety precautions to take during this water hammer arrestor installation?
Always shut off the main water supply and drain the lines completely before cutting. Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from metal shavings, and be cautious of sharp pipe edges after cutting. Have towels and a bucket ready for any residual water to minimize mess.
Cut Pipe and Install T-Fitting — Locate Position and Cut the Pipe
Part of project
How to Install an Air Chamber to Prevent Water Hammer · Step 3 of 7
In this video
Identify the water line where the arrestor will be installed (typically the line causing the most noise, in this case the hot water line). Use a PEX pipe cutter to make a straight, clean cut to remove a section of the pipe, creating a gap for the T-fitting. Use a deburring tool to smooth the inside and outside edges of both cut pipe ends. With a tape measure and marker, mark the correct insertion depth on both pipe ends according to the fitting's instructions. Firmly push the SharkBite T-fitting onto both pipe ends until they reach the marks, ensuring a secure connection with the open port of the tee facing upwards.
Goal: Install a T-fitting into the water line
- A straight cut is essential for a proper seal. A crooked cut can lead to leaks.
- Ensure the pipe is pushed all the way into the fitting until it reaches the depth mark.
Used in this video
- PEX Pipe Cutter (brand: Unspecified, Tool Type: Hand tools) — Cutting the PEX pipe.
- Deburring Tool (brand: SharkBite, Tool Type: Hand tools) — Smoothing the cut edges of the PEX pipe.
- Tape Measure (brand: Unspecified, Tool Type: Measuring tools) — Measuring the insertion depth for the fitting.
- Marker (brand: Unspecified, Tool Type: Hand tools) — Marking the insertion depth on the pipe.
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is this project for a beginner, and is the 4-hour estimate accurate?
This project is rated beginner-friendly, but taking your time, especially with pipe cutting and compression fittings, is crucial. The 4-hour estimate accounts for preparation, potential draining time, and careful installation, so allow yourself ample time to avoid rushing and ensure a leak-free result.
What are the most common mistakes when using compression fittings, and how can I prevent leaks?
Leaks from compression fittings often stem from not deburring pipe ends properly, misaligning the nut, or over-tightening. Ensure pipe ends are smooth and square, hand-tighten the nut, then use a wrench for another 1/2 to 3/4 turn for a secure seal, being careful not to overtighten and strip the threads.
The guide lists multiple copper pipe cutters; which one is best for this project, and is a deburring tool essential?
A close-quarters tubing cutter or an AUTOCUT 1/2 in. cutter is ideal for working in tight spaces common under sinks or behind walls. Yes, a deburring tool like the Husky 1-5/8 in. reamer is absolutely essential to ensure a smooth, clean pipe end for leak-free compression fitting connections.
What are the most important safety precautions to take during this water hammer arrestor installation?
Always shut off the main water supply and drain the lines completely before cutting. Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from metal shavings, and be cautious of sharp pipe edges after cutting. Have towels and a bucket ready for any residual water to minimize mess.