Hi all. DIYer here. I’ve just begun the installation of new copper supply lines in my small 2nd floor apartment. After removing all the mishmash of galvanized and old copper, I’m left with a 14″ length of 3/4″ copper protruding up from my floor. There must have been leaking higher up on the pipe because there is a lot of green crud on the outside of this hot water line. After scraping and sanding with emery cloth to remove 98% of the crud, I test fitted a copper tee. It is not a real snug fit like you would find with a new copper pipe. There’s a little bit of play. Question: Do I solder as normal because a little bit of play is no big deal? Thanks for any words of wisdom. Rick
Discussion Forum
Discussion Forum
Up Next
Video Shorts
Featured Story
Joe Cook and Travis Brungardt detail the benefits of using the Slicker Max Rainscreen from Benjamin Obdyke to protect the siding of the FHB House.
Featured Video
Highlights
"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.
Replies
If there were pits in pipe after a little sanding replace the whole pipe, or at least back to where there was no crud on it.
Lots easier to do now than later.
I was afraid that you might tell me that. It's about 10' of pipe down to the basement and water leaked down the outside of the full length. I see some crud on the visible portion of the pipe in the basement. I was hoping to avoid trashing 10' of copper pipe.
It's a judgement call, I would have to see the pipe in person to know if it needs to be replaced.
& I agree with MC it's easier to replace now verses later.
I fear no man & only one GOD. Me
Why not try soldering it and test for leaks?
Thanks Wayne. I'm thinking about doing that.
Rick, sounds like a good time to learn about PEX.
Solder one fitting on that pipe, copper to PEX adapter and use PEX for the rest.
You can buy a lot of PEX for the price of 10' of copper.
Joe H
I think I'd solder on a good length of new pipe with a cap at the other end and then test for leaks. Once you can get a good solder joint then you're OK -- just continue from the new pipe.