PVC pipes and fittings are gaining popularity in the modern plumbing industry, known for their ease of installation, durability, and affordability. When working on PVC plumbing projects, you may often encounter a situation where you need a fitting used to connect two different pipe sizes together. Although PVC fittings are versatile, joining pipes of various diameters still requires the right approach and proper fittings to ensure a secure and leak-free connection.
Before choosing the PVC fittings, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the different types of pipe fittings available. In this article, we’ll cover the purpose of PVC fittings and explore the main categories of PVC pipe fittings. Browse the ERA PVC pipe and fittings collection at PlumbingSell for your following projects.
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Purpose of PVC fittings
PVC fittings play a crucial role in PVC plumbing systems, as they enable pipes to be joined, extended, or redirected. Without the right PVC fittings, it would be nearly impossible to create a secure and watertight system. While PVC pipes carry the liquid, it’s the fittings that determine how these pipes are connected and directed. Without fittings, plumbing systems would be limited to straight lines, lacking practical methods to achieve changes in direction, size, or function.
One of the most common situations that requires PVC fittings in the majority of plumbing projects is the need to connect two different pipe sizes. One of the most common PVC fittings used to fulfill this purpose is PVC couplings. They are used to join various sizes of PVC pipes or pipes with other applications. These components are specifically designed to connect two different diameters. They allow you to connect pipes of different sizes while maintaining flow efficiency and preventing potential leaks.
In short, PVC fittings don’t just hold pipes together—they make plumbing systems adaptable, cost-effective, and durable. They are not only convenient, but also reliable. By using the correct and trustworthy ERA PVC connectors, you can extend the lifespan of your plumbing system and avoid unnecessary water damage or costly maintenance.
Types of PVC Pipe Fittings
Like other pipe fittings, PVC fittings come in many shapes and sizes, each designed to solve specific plumbing requirements. From connecting pipes of different diameters to changing direction or creating branches for appliances, the right fitting is crucial for efficient water flow. Below are the four main categories of PVC pipe fittings you are most likely to encounter.
Slip Fittings
Slip PVC pipe fittings are the most commonly used type in PVC systems. They mainly include elbows, tees, couplings, and caps, which are used to join PVC pipes of the same diameter. As the name suggests, slip PVC fittings can be easily slipped over the pipe, making them easier to install. They come in various forms, from adapters to tees and elbows. Among these, PVC pipe couplings are used most frequently because they can join two pipes together in a straight line.
When pipes of different sizes are used, reducing slip PVC couplings are used to connect them. This kind of fitting is specifically designed as a connector for two different pipe sizes. Slip reducing fittings are ideal when you need a slip fitting to connect two or more pipes of different diameters.
To securely join PVC fittings with pipes, PVC glue or PVC adhesive is required. The connection may seem tight when you put on the fittings, but to transport any liquid media, it must be sealed. The preparation and connection process can take some practice for those new to PVC systems. Still, it will become easier once you have installed a couple of fittings.
Threaded Fittings
Threaded fittings are PVC connectors with screw-like ends that enable you to join pipes without the need for special PVC adhesives. Unlike slip PVC fittings, which form a permanent bond, threaded fittings can be disassembled, making them flexible and convenient. They are often used in systems that require frequent disassembly, adjustment or inspection.
One of their most significant advantages is adaptability. With the right design, threaded fittings can also be used to connect two pipes of different diameters. For example, reducing bushings and threaded reducing couplings can be used to connect pipes of either the same or different sizes. The reduced variations have made them an excellent choice when you need a fitting to connect two pipes of various diameters, while also providing the option to unscrew the connection later.
For those unfamiliar with PVC adhesives and seeking an easy installation, threaded fittings are the go-to choice. If you feel like the threaded connection is not secure enough, a good way to seal threaded joints and keep them working is to use PTFE threaded seal tape. And you can still unscrew them easily when coming back for maintenance.
Compression Fittings
Compression fittings are another versatile option, especially when you want to avoid glue or seal tape for threading. They use a nut and gasket to compress around the pipe, creating a watertight seal. This design makes them one of the most reliable types of water pipe connectors for both temporary and permanent use.
Compression fittings are also available in reducing versions, making them another type of fitting used to connect two different pipe sizes together. And since they don’t require special adhesives, compression fittings are ideal when you need a fitting to connect two pipes of various diameters in a system that may require future modifications.
Conclusion
Connecting two different-sized PVC pipes may seem challenging at first. Still, with the right PVC fittings, the process can be simple and effective. Whether you choose a slip-reducing coupling, a threaded reducing adapter, or a compression connector, they are designed to maintain water flow, prevent leaks, and ensure long-term durability in your PVC plumbing system.
Understanding the various options will help you select the best solution for your project. Browse ERA’s full range of PVC pipe fittings at PlumbingSell to find the perfect PVC connector for your next project. With the trusted fittings, your plumbing system will not only function reliably but also stand the test of time.
