Advantages and Disadvantages of Copper Pipe Plumbing
Advantages
One of the first advantages of copper pipe plumbing deals with installation. Copper is a relatively soft metal, so it can bend rather easily. Therefore, copper pipe plumbing can be installed using less fasteners and connectors. Since there will be less hardware used, it will be easier to install this type of plumbing.
Another advantage of copper pipe plumbing deals with the water supply. Bacteria can grow in other types of plumbing, especially plastic designs. Copper pipe plumbing is bacteriostatic. This means that bacteria can’t grow in the copper pipes. Also, there is no risk of lead poisoning as lead isn’t used during the manufacturing process.
Copper pipe plumbing is also extremely durable. Unlike designs made of steel, copper pipes will resist corrosion. They are also capable of withstanding ultraviolet rays unlike plastic designs. These characteristics make copper pipe plumbing ideal for outside uses such as in a sprinkler system.
One of the final advantages of copper pipe plumbing is that it resists temperatures changes well. If a fire ever occurs in your home, toxic gases will be released if you have CPVC, or plastic pipes. Copper pipe plumbing doesn’t burn, so it won’t release toxic gases.
Disadvantages
One of the most important disadvantages of copper pipe plumbing is the expense involved. Copper is a considerably more expensive material than plastic. Although the installation of copper pipe plumbing requires less hardware, it will still be more expensive to install.
Another disadvantage of copper pipe plumbing deals with water acidity. This type of plumbing is only suitable for water that has a pH between 6.5 and 8.5. Water that comes from a well may be too acidic for copper pipe plumbing. Therefore, it’s best to use this type of plumbing in locations that are supplied by the city water supply.
These are some of the advantages and disadvantages of copper pipe plumbing. Since copper can bend rather easily, it requires less connectors and fasteners during installation. This type of plumbing also won’t be damaged by ultraviolet rays and corrosion. However, copper pipe plumbing is only suitable for water that is supplied by the city water supply as well water may be too acidic.
