The best pipes for water supply. Which pipes are best for water supply: a brief overview of modern materials

As you probably already guessed from the title of the section, answers to the questions will be given here: which pipe to choose for water supply? which pipes are best for water supply? which pipe to choose for hot (cold) water supply? etc.

But I admit right away: the question in the title is somewhat provocative - the best pipes do not exist. Each material has pros and cons. You also need to take into account the conditions under which the pipe will operate: pressure, temperature of the liquid, in the ground or in the air... and a well-established manufacturer. So, for internal water supply it is better to install polypropylene and metal-plastic ones. You also need to choose from them, in accordance with the following considerations: is it important for me (for you, that is), for the pipes to be hidden, for example, in plaster? or can they be accessible to both the hands and the eye? Do I (that is, you) want to master a soldering iron for polypropylene or will I limit myself to the qualifications of a “wrench operator”? etc. For external water supply, HDPE pipes are better: cheaper than polypropylene and easier to install.

In order to answer these questions, you need to consider all types of pipes made of different materials that can be used for water supply, their performance qualities, advantages, and disadvantages.

Steel water supply pipes

Steel pipes are well known to everyone; in most water supply systems, especially in old buildings, they are used. You may have immediately decided that your home will have steel pipes.

However, it is better not to rush, but to find out in more detail about all the advantages and, most importantly, disadvantages of this type of pipe.

Polypropylene pipes for water supply: types, characteristics, pros and cons

By own experience I can give a recommendation: if you want to save on installing a water supply system and therefore do it yourself, but do not have the skills of a professional welder, then polypropylene pipes for water supply are just the thing.

However, don’t rush to immediately run to the store and buy it; it’s better to read the article after learning about all the disadvantages and advantages.

Copper pipes for water supply

Copper pipes have been used all over the world for a long time. And not only in water supply systems.

However, for the water supply of a private house, a copper pipe is still exotic - despite its undeniable advantages, which you can read about in this article.

Metal-plastic pipes for water supply, their advantages and disadvantages

This is perhaps the most common type of pipes now used in plumbing systems inside the house.

And this is no coincidence, because the metal-plastic pipe has such an advantage that no other pipe has.

Polyethylene pipes for water supply, their pros and cons

But for external water supply, polyethylene pipes are most often used.

Because they have a lot of advantages, but only one drawback, and that’s not the cost.

Corrugated pipes for water supply are pipes that have almost no drawbacks!

I will not be mistaken if I assert that corrugated stainless steel is the most ideal pipe for water supply.

It, like a polyethylene pipe, has only one drawback. True, for most people this is the most significant drawback. However, this may not apply to you.

Which pipes are best for water supply?
Which pipes are better for water supply: properties of steel, polypropylene, copper, polyethylene, metal-plastic, corrugated pipes for water supply. Which pipes to choose for water supply?

The range of pipes for communication devices is extensive. The manufactured products differ significantly in their characteristics: material, flexibility, strength, durability. It is often difficult for the user to determine which pipe to choose for water supply to a house or apartment.

The type of pipeline and transported medium, the number of plumbing points in the network - all these are factors that tip the balance in favor of choosing one type or another.

Selection of pipes taking into account operating conditions

The internal water supply system includes a system of pipelines (distribution) that transports water to plumbing fixtures and equipment. Pipes and connecting elements made of polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, polypropylene, polybutylene, metal polymers may not be used for all networks. Each of them has its own operating conditions and they can vary greatly.

Pipes made of copper, brass, bronze can be used without restrictions - for high-pressure systems, for transporting drinking and technical, cold and hot water. Steel products with external and internal anti-corrosion coating can also be used for any purpose.

For each type of pipe and its standard size, the value of the maximum pressure in the network that they can withstand is determined. It is better that it be higher than the maximum possible pressure in the water supply network.

For example, in a house with a centralized water supply, the pressure can fluctuate between 2.5-7.5 bar with a norm of 4 bar. In this case, peak readings can sometimes reach 10 bar, and system testing is carried out at values ​​of 12 bar. To prevent the pipeline from bursting, when choosing pipes, a “safety margin” is provided with a guide to maximum performance.

Choosing pipes for external construction underground systems, pay attention to the ring stiffness indicator. When laying a polymer pipeline without ducts in soil where damage is possible, products with a protective coating are used.

One of the determining factors for the choice is operating conditions:

How to determine the required pipe size?

To conveniently determine the diameter of pipes and fittings and link them to all elements of the system, use the value of the internal diameter ( Dy - conditional diameter of pipes). Focused on typical sizes of steel pipes - they are produced with Dy- 15 mm, 20 m, 32 mm.

The length of the supplied steel pipes can be different, mainly these are lengths from 4 to 12 m. Metal-plastic pipes can have a diameter of ( D y) 16-30 mm and wall thickness 2-2.5 mm.

The choice of the diameter of the future pipeline depends on the following factors:

• Water pressure in the network. The lower it is, the larger the diameter should be. A thin pipe with insufficient pressure will produce only a thin stream of water.
• Pipeline lengths. The greater its length, the lower the pressure in the network and, accordingly, it is necessary to use a larger diameter.
• Number of turns and joints. Each such element reduces pressure. By choosing pipes with a large diameter, it is possible to increase the flow of water into the house.

These factors are related to the properties of the pipeline itself. In addition to them, the water temperature, parameters of pumping equipment and much more are taken into account.

There are special formulas for accurately calculating the diameter, but the general rule when purchasing is not to incline your choice in favor of saving by reducing the diameter of the pipe. In a narrow pipeline, more hydraulic losses occur, which will have to be compensated for by a more powerful pump and more electricity required to operate it, and this is an additional expense.

When installing a pipeline in an apartment, most often there is no need for calculations - there is already wiring at the entrance. Its dimensions are known, they are designed for required flow rate water. Usually, before entering the apartment, the common pipeline is installed from pipes Dy which is 20-32 mm, for apartment wiring they use pipes with Dy 15-20 mm.

Characteristics of pipes made of various materials

When choosing pipes for water supply from a certain material, physical and mechanical characteristics are taken into account, as well as operating conditions - maximum temperature, operating pressure, service life. All parameters are prescribed in regulations and must meet state standards.

Option #1: steel products

The main thing for which a metal pipeline is valued is its strength, resistance to high temperatures, excess pressure in the network and external mechanical damaging influences. But the few shortcomings that such products have sometimes remove them from the list of products that are accessible and easy to install.

Firstly, this is low corrosion resistance, if these are not pipes made of copper or brass, it significantly reduces the service life and worsens the quality of the water supply system as a whole. Secondly, it is heavy, which creates additional difficulties during installation. And thirdly, problems that arise when connecting different parts of the water supply system - the need for thread cutting and inaccessibility shaped products from expensive metals.

The products are used for installation of external and internal water supply networks, hot and cold mains. Can be galvanized or non-galvanized. The former last a little longer and clog less. But over time, they also lose their protective layer and, like non-galvanized ones, begin to rust. On average, steel pipelines last about 40 years.

Steel pipes are produced with different wall thicknesses; according to these parameters they are divided into light, ordinary, and reinforced. The thicker the wall, the longer the product lasts and vice versa. Reinforced pipes are harder to cut and require more bending effort.

Which pipe to choose for water supply: we figure out which pipes are better and why
Which pipe to choose for water supply to a private house and apartment. Pipes made of polypropylene, metal-plastic, copper. Selection of pipes for water supply, taking into account the characteristics and operating features.

A large assortment pipes offered by modern hardware stores allows you to create any functionality and technical capabilities water pipes.

When carrying out renovation work in an apartment or when constructing a new private house, the question of which water supply pipes to choose becomes especially relevant for the home owner. The duration and trouble-free functioning of cold and hot water supply systems directly depends on how correctly the selection of these products is made. The choice of pipes is complicated by their wide variety. A common person You may well be confused by the assortment available in construction stores.

When repairing or building, the question often arises: which pipes to choose?

To prevent this from happening, experts advise focusing on the following: key characteristics when purchasing pipes:

• price,
• quality declared by the manufacturer,
• technical capabilities of products,
• ease of installation with your own hands.

Currently, water supply systems in high-rise apartments are equipped with steel, polypropylene, metal-plastic, copper, and polyethylene products. Also, pipelines are made of stainless metal pipes. Copper lines last the longest (up to 100 years). Pipelines made of metal-plastic and polypropylene are used for up to 30 years, those made of stainless steel and polyethylene - up to 50. But structures made of ordinary steel need to be replaced every 20-25 years of use.

During the Soviet era, carbon steel pipes were almost the only option for constructing reliable water pipelines. Highways from such products are still made today. Steel pipes for water supply are characterized by the following advantages:

• The low linear expansion of the material makes it possible to install highways without the need to install special compensators.
• Steel structures hold temperature well. They can be used for hot water supply (DHW) systems without worrying about the pipeline melting.
• Ability to withstand almost any pressure of the supplied fluid. Even very strong water pressure is not able to damage the integrity of steel lines.

The main disadvantage of steel water supply is the complexity of installation.

The main disadvantage of the pipes described is the complexity of their installation. Not every home craftsman can on our own collect quality system using a welding machine. The latter, moreover, is not available to everyone. And of course, there is no point in purchasing a welder in order to replace the pipes in an apartment once every 20–50 years.

Stainless steel products are characterized by all the advantages described above. In addition, they are not subject to corrosion during operation. Due to this, liquid with a rusty taste never flows from stainless water pipes. Such pipe products can be used for the construction of both internal and external water supply networks. Stainless steel pipes are much easier to install than conventional steel pipes. But the cost of structures that are not afraid of corrosion is significantly higher. This determines their rather low demand these days.

In cases where you plan to create an almost eternal water supply system, it is recommended to use copper products. Such pipes are the most durable (they last 100 years or more). The duration of their operation is due to the special characteristics of copper, as well as special technologies for their connection and installation. Assembly of copper networks is carried out:

1. 1. Through express fittings.
2. 2. Soldering.

The first technique is based on the use of special connecting parts. The fittings are pulled onto the pipe joints, and then pressed into place using special tools - pliers. It is impossible to perform this procedure poorly (even for a person who is doing such work for the first time in his life).

Soldering copper pipes is a more complex installation option. It is not advisable to do it yourself. Firstly, the operation requires a certain professionalism. Secondly, soldering is carried out using special equipment, which may not be in the arsenal of a home craftsman.

Note that the high price is not the only drawback of copper products. You should also take into account the complexity of connecting the steel, plastic and copper parts of the plumbing. This operation is performed differently in each specific case. Moreover, only an experienced technician can know all the nuances of installing such pipelines.

Polypropylene, metal-plastic and polyethylene pipes are now at the peak of their popularity. They are most often chosen by self-taught craftsmen who want to do all the work without the involvement of specialists. Installation of plastic structures does not require the use of expensive equipment. And the technology itself for assembling such networks is clear and simple.

Plastic structures are easy to install yourself

Metal-plastic pipes for water supply have a truly impressive appearance. They do not rust, their shell does not conduct electricity. Installation of metal-plastic is carried out using fittings. There are a lot of varieties of the latter (they are sold in all plumbing stores), which allows you to create any network configuration. But these types of pipes for water supply systems are characterized by two rather serious disadvantages:

1. 1. Low resistance to mechanical influences.
2. 2. Insufficient reliability of joints. The connection areas of metal-plastic products weaken due to cyclic fluctuations in the temperature of the supplied medium. For this reason, they are strictly not recommended for building hot water supply systems.

Polyethylene (PE) pipelines retain their original strength at low temperatures. In some cases this is important. If the water freezes in the main in winter, you do not have to worry about the integrity of the PE pipes. After defrosting, they will begin to perform their functions again. Moreover, you will not find any leaks or breakdowns in the system. Polyethylene pipe products are easy to install, light weight, and low cost.

Note! Conventional PE pipes are not suitable for hot water supply. They are allowed to supply warm (with a temperature of no more than +40–45 °C) and cold liquids. Hot water supply networks should be constructed exclusively from pipes made of cross-linked polyethylene. This material is created specifically for hot environments.

Polypropylene (PP) pipes are now in greatest demand. They are suitable for supplying cold and hot (up to +100°) water. Installation of PP products is carried out using a low-temperature - easy-to-use and inexpensive soldering iron. Polypropylene does not burn under the influence of this tool, but only melts. This ensures reliability and 100% tightness of the resulting connections.

The soldering iron is sold at any hardware store at a low price. Don't hesitate to buy this tool. The cost of calling a specialist to assemble a polypropylene water supply will be significantly higher than the cost of a soldering iron, which, by the way, can be used to work with any PP products (not just pipe ones).

We hope we have helped you decide which pipes are best to purchase to create a durable, easy-to-install, and affordable water supply system. Build the optimal water supply system for your apartment and enjoy its uninterrupted operation for many decades.

Pipes for water supply - choose wisely!
A large assortment of pipes offered by modern hardware stores allows you to create any in terms of functionality and technical capabilities.

Which pipes to choose for water supply - analysis of the 4 main types and their characteristics

Whether we are installing a water supply system from scratch or doing a major overhaul of outdated communications, in any case we will have to face the problem of choosing pipes. Modern market, on the one hand, it pleases with abundance, on the other hand, it makes you seriously think about which pipe to choose to supply water to your own cozy nest. Let's analyze what types of water pipes exist, and which of them claim to be the best for water supply.

Typically, the assortment in different regions is not too different; on the shelves of plumbing or construction supermarkets you can see the following types of water supply pipes:

• steel,
• copper pipes,
• metal-plastic,
• plastic.

It is impossible to say unequivocally that one type is bad and another is good, it all depends on specific situation, operating conditions, temperature conditions in which the pipe is supposed to be used, etc.

Steel pipes: no longer relevant?

Steel pipes do not need a long introduction, since until recently they were most often used for installing water pipes.

This material is considered relatively cheap; moreover, any store has a large selection of compatible fittings. Their undoubted advantages include strength: they can withstand both high pressure and high temperature, but for domestic water supply these advantages are not the most relevant.

The main disadvantage of water supply systems made from steel pipes is expensive and complex installation.

In the same time, metal pipes have a bad habit of becoming covered in condensation. Their installation is quite labor-intensive, using welding or threaded connections, requires special skills and equipment, and is difficult to do independently. However, if the work is done well, such a water supply system will last up to 50 years, so it has plenty of fans.

• Susceptibility to corrosion,
• Deposition limescale, gradual “overgrowing” of pipes,
• High electrical conductivity,
• Labor-intensive installation.

Conclusion: You can use steel if you are reconstructing an old water supply system from the same material and do not want to “combine” it. In general, when deciding which pipes for water supply are better, steel ones can be safely crossed out. There are more worthy contenders.

Copper pipes: impressive, efficient, expensive

A high-quality and beautiful (no matter how strange it may sound) water supply system can be built using copper pipes for water supply. This is real chic - it’s expensive, looks great, lasts a long time. A copper pipe system will function without problems for up to 70 years. It does not deform and is resistant to different temperature conditions.

Plumbing made from copper pipes looks great, but it will cost the owner a pretty penny

In addition, copper has properties beneficial to humans. When interacting with chlorine, which our water contains quite a lot, it does not form harmful compounds.

• High price,
• The pipes themselves and the corresponding fittings are not so often found on sale,
• Moderate mechanical strength of pipes,
• They can be installed only after the water purification system,
• Costly and labor-intensive installation (soldering is most often used).

Conclusion: if money is not an issue for you, and you dream of ordinary plumbing becoming a spectacular element of home design, then copper pipes are your choice, but it’s a stretch to call them the best for plumbing.

Metal-plastic pipes: at the junction of materials

Lightweight, easy-to-use metal-plastic pipes have long been among the leaders. The three-layer structure, consisting of a metal frame, solid, perforated or spiral, coated on both sides with plastic, brilliantly withstands water hammer and temperatures up to +75 ° C.

The service life is up to 35 years, you see, that’s quite a lot. These pipes are connected using fittings. The operation is not too complicated, but it requires skill.

Metal-plastic pipes are suitable for hot and cold water supply systems

• If the water temperature is too high, the plastic may “flow”
• Connections need to be tightened periodically
• Both the pipes themselves and their connections are not very durable.

Conclusion: metal-plastic is a good choice, especially for a summer residence. Today there are more practical options for apartments and houses.

Plastic pipes: keeping up with the times

Plastic pipes are one of the most popular when installing internal and external water supply systems. They have absorbed almost all the advantages of their competitors: they are strong, cheap, durable, not subject to corrosion, and a system made from them looks neat. They can be easily connected even by non-professionals, using a soldering iron or special glue and fittings. Such a water supply system can be safely hidden in the wall; the resulting joints are airtight and reliable.

Plastic pipes have many advantages, one of the main ones is ease of installation.

“Plastic” is a general name for a number of pipes, which nevertheless differ somewhat in their characteristics:

• Polyethylene pipes are elastic and durable, do not burst when water freezes, have low thermal conductivity, and are connected by soldering. Pipes made of low-pressure polyethylene can withstand temperatures from just 0 to +40°C, while pipes made of cross-linked polyethylene, which are more stable, can be used when installing both cold and hot water supply systems.
• PVC pipes are one of the most inexpensive and practical materials, they are used for both cold and hot water, and heating systems are installed from them. The toughest polymer pipes are connected using fittings and special glue.
• Polypropylene pipes have the widest range of applications, therefore they are the most in demand. In many respects they are similar to cross-linked polyethylene pipes, but cheaper. They are connected quite simply using coupling and butt soldering.

The connections are non-separable and will have to be cut during repairs.

Conclusion: ideal for those who want durable, practical and inexpensive plumbing. Installation can be entrusted to specialists, or you can do it yourself, the technology is accessible, the tools are simple.

As it turned out, choosing pipes for water supply is not an easy matter; it is necessary to take into account a lot of nuances: the operating conditions of the system, the temperature of the water and its chemical composition, the total length of the route, the pressure in it, the cost of the pipes themselves and their installation, which means that in each case it is necessary be considered separately.

Those who plan to install the system themselves should also consider how easy it is to master the technology and what tools will be required for the job. From this point of view, the most best option– plastic pipes, the installation of which can be mastered by even the most inexperienced, but careful and patient home craftsman.

Which pipes to choose for water supply - analysis of the 4 main types and their characteristics
Which pipes are best for water supply: types, characteristics and advice from experts. All about the choice of pipes and analysis of what to pay attention to when designing.

In order to determine which pipes are best for water supply, you must first weigh the pros and cons of each material. Therefore, today we will talk about the types of water pipes, consider their strengths and weak sides, taking into account not only the technical characteristics, but also the comparative cost and complexity of installation.

Let's start with the types of water pipes.

Water pipes are conventionally divided into two large categories. Metal pipes include:

• steel;
• stainless steel pipes;
• copper.

TO non-metallic pipes relate:

• metal-plastic;
• polypropylene;
• polyethylene;
• made of cross-linked polyethylene;
• PVC pipes.

Metal pipes

Metal pipes are a classic. They have been serving for many decades and have not lost their popularity to this day. Among them there are those that are used exclusively for cold water, and others for hot water supply. Let's look at the pros and cons of each type of pipe.

They come in regular and galvanized versions. During installation, pipes are connected with threads, for which tees, adapters, couplings, etc. are used. Steel pipes have gained considerable popularity due to their reliability and durability. They are not afraid of sudden temperature changes and high blood pressure, and according to the manufacturing method they are divided into:

• welded;
• seamless.

If we talk about which steel pipes are of the highest quality, then there is only one option - seamless with galvanized coating. Zinc is known to prevent corrosion, so there is no need to paint or prime these pipes.

Note! Steel pipes only need painting at the joints. The fact is that any connection, regardless of type, will destroy the structure of the protective coating, so it should be additionally protected with a layer of paint or primer.

We've looked at the advantages of steel pipes, now let's see what their disadvantages are.

1. Large weight, as a result - difficulties in transportation and installation.
2. Corrosion.
3. When installing the pipeline, welding is required, which further complicates the process.
4. There will be foreign impurities in the water passing through the pipes.
5. All seams must be carefully sealed.
6. During long-term operation, the internal diameter of the pipes decreases, as build-up forms. As a result, the pressure drops significantly.

Not long ago, pipe manufacturers surprised us with their unique production technology. The fact is that steel pipes have appeared, coated on the inside with a non-metallic layer, which prevents the formation of build-up and corrosion. The outer layer of the products remains metal for durability.

Stainless steel pipes

Stainless steel pipes do not have any technical disadvantages. They can be used for the most different temperatures, high blood pressure, etc. But such pipes are rarely found due to their only drawback - very high cost.

Copper pipes

Copper pipes also have excellent corrosion resistance; moreover, their internal surface is less rough than other metal analogues. For this reason, such pipes have a higher throughput, due to which the copper pipeline can be smaller in diameter compared to steel.

Copper is distinguished not only by its long service life (copper pipes can last more than fifty years), but also by its disinfecting characteristics - water coming into contact with it is purified of harmful microorganisms. Also, a copper pipeline is quite easy and quick to install. In general, copper is the optimal material for plumbing, because it does not change the taste of water, but, on the contrary, improves it.

The main disadvantage of copper is its high cost.

You may be interested in information about what it should be.

Video - Water supply from copper pipes

Non-metallic pipes

Is it worth replacing old metal pipes with more modern non-metallic ones? This question interests many, let’s try to understand it. The main advantage of non-metallic water pipes is their resistance to rust. Moreover, the inner surface is flat and smooth, which is why the growths characteristic of metal will not appear on it.

Plastic pipes can withstand high temperatures (but not more than 95°C) and pressure of about ten atmospheres. Plastic water pipe will last more than half a century (only copper pipes have such operational durability).

Metal-plastic pipes

The design of metal-plastic pipes is multilayer. They have plastic on the outside and inside, and a layer of aluminum in the middle. The advantage is high strength combined with low weight. For example, 20 m of such a pipe weighs no more than 3-4 kg.

Metal-plastic pipes are elastic and can be given any shape. They also conduct heat well. When installing metal-plastic pipes, no welding work is required; they are connected to each other with a wrench and special fittings.

Among the disadvantages, I would like to note the fact that with a sharp temperature jump in water passing through the pipeline, aluminum will shrink faster than plastic. Plus high blood pressure. It turns out that the “Achilles heel” of pipes is precisely the connections.

Note! When purchasing metal-plastic pipes, be aware that the products of blue color should be used only for cold water supply (water temperature should not exceed 30°). White pipes are used for hot water supply.

Polypropylene pipes

U polypropylene pipes there are no disadvantages that metal-plastic pipes have, although their technical characteristics are almost the same. The advantage is that the pipes are connected to each other by thermal welding, which ensures high strength of the joints. At the same time, polypropylene is significantly stiffer, which is why it will not be possible to change the direction of the water supply with ordinary bending - this is ensured by fittings.

Polypropylene pipes are characterized by durability and low cost. They can last more than 50 years (if we are talking about hot water supply, then this figure is halved). Moreover, polypropylene’s characteristics remain unchanged even when water freezes.

The main disadvantage of such pipes is considered to be a high linear expansion rate, that is, at high temperatures the pipeline somewhat lengthens and sags. They are also negatively affected by ultraviolet radiation, and temperatures above 75°C can even cause a water pipe to burst.

Video - How to choose polypropylene pipes

Polyethylene pipes

Polyethylene pipes can withstand pressures of up to 16 atmospheres and temperatures from -40° to +40°. As we can see, their heat resistance is quite low, which, together with a high linear expansion rate, can be considered a negative quality.

For this reason, polyethylene is not often used in water supply; its “relative” is much more popular - cross-linked polyethylene. This material appeared not so long ago, but has already acquired thousands of supporters. Indeed, the installation of cross-linked polyethylene pipes is very simple, because the fittings used for this do not have rubber seals - the pipe is crimped with a special fitting to ensure tightness.

So, the advantages of cross-linked polyethylene are as follows:

• it tolerates sub-zero temperatures well;
• cross-linked polyethylene is inert to various substances in circulating water;
• PE pipe connections are very durable;
• the fittings used here do not reduce water permeability.

PVC pipes

PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is superior to all previous versions of plastic pipes both in strength and resistance to chemicals. Indeed, such pipes can withstand pressure of about 46 atmospheres. Moreover, the material does not burn; it can be used to supply both hot water (tolerates temperatures of 90°) and cold.

When installing PVC pipes, you will not need a welding machine or other specific tools, so it is quite possible to do all the work on arranging the water supply system yourself. The pipes are connected only through couplings and angles, which makes the process of installing a water supply more economical.

Prices for water supply pipes

water supply pipes

Features of installation of metal pipes

As mentioned earlier, when purchasing pipes for water supply, you need to pay attention not only to the cost and technical parameters, but also to the complexity of installation. As for metal pipelines, there can be two installation methods.

1. Demountable installation

Collapsible method pipeline installation involves connecting pipes using special threaded fittings. The pipe is screwed into the fitting, and the joint itself is clamped with a lock nut. In other words, there are no fittings with fittings, as is the case with plastic pipes, here.

For installation, you only need a regular wrench, but this simplicity also has a downside - if the diameter of the pipes exceeds 6.3 cm, then dismountable installation will not be possible, since locknuts, as well as fittings, of such a diameter do not exist.

1. Permanent installation

As you probably already guessed, non-separable method consists of welding or soldering joints. It is characteristic that in this case the diameter of the pipeline will not play any role.

This versatility of the method requires the use of special tools - a welding machine, cutting torch etc. This is where it “surfaced” main drawback permanent installation - not all welders know how to weld pipes.

Features of installation of plastic pipes

If we consider plastic pipes from the point of view of installation complexity, then they are much preferable. Indeed, they can be fastened with fittings, welding, molds and even assembly adhesive. The simplest installation method in this case is detachable fittings, which even a housewife can handle. If you require a more reliable connection, then pay attention to press fittings. By the way, such a docking method is also quite simple to implement.

As a conclusion – what to choose?

Here we come to the most important thing - the answer to the question that interests us about the choice of pipes for the water supply. Of course, copper remains the best material, the many advantages of which we talked about. The only thing is that copper pipes are very expensive, and if you cannot afford such a purchase, then you can pay attention to plastic pipes. Among them, cross-linked polyethylene has the best characteristics, which, like copper, costs much more than its plastic “competitors”.

To determine which pipe to choose for water supply, you need to take into account factors such as: the temperature of the circulating water and the external environment, the chemical structure of water, the length of the water pipeline, operating conditions, water pressure, as well as your financial capabilities.

Creating an autonomous water supply system from a well, a well, or even a city sewer is not an easy task, requiring the solution of a whole range of problems. One of these problems is a comprehensively thought-out selection of materials and components that meets the entire variety of evaluation criteria. And in the first line, of course, there will be pipes in this list - without them, water supply is impossible “by default.”

Such knowledge will not hurt the owners of a city apartment - sooner or later the moment comes when a major overhaul is needed engineering communications will rise in all its sharpness. Therefore, we deal with a seemingly simple, but in fact abundant important nuances The question is which pipe to choose for water supply to your residential properties.

What criteria must water pipes meet?

There are many varieties of water pipes on sale, differing in both the material of manufacture and their performance characteristics. By what criteria should the “ideal pipe” be selected?

• Since it is used for water supply, the material used should not have any impact on negative influence for quality drinking water. With some polymer pipes, sometimes used in construction, this issue, by the way, is not all right. So when choosing, attention is immediately drawn to this.
• Installation of a new water supply system or replacement of worn-out pipes is carried out, of course, with the prospect of several decades of operation. That is, the durability factor should be one of the priorities.

It is unlikely that anyone will want to relive such a defeat again in a few years. This means that the pipes must have excellent durability.

• Ideally, the pipe material is chemically inert, does not react in any way with the aquatic environment, and corrosion should be excluded. This, by the way, indirectly echoes the first two points listed.
• The pipe must also meet a number of strength requirements. First of all, of course, this concerns the ability to withstand pressure from within. Although it cannot be said that water supply systems are “famous” for high pressure, but even in them a pressure of 5–6 atmospheres is not at all uncommon. On collectors in multi-storey buildings there may be more. Peak values sometimes they reach “ten”, and during pressure testing the pressure is even raised to 12 atmospheres. And the pipes must cope with such a load.

One of the troubles caused by incorrect selection or violation of operating rules is a burst pipe that cannot withstand the increased pressure.

For each type and each brand of pipes, boundaries are established permissible pressure– this is one of the fundamental parameters of such products. Moreover, this indicator is also very closely related to the temperature of the transported water. So if a hot water supply is being created, care should be even higher.

The section of the water supply from the source to the house is most often laid in the ground. And at a fairly significant depth - below the freezing level of the soil. That is, the pipe will experience both soil pressure and external “aggression” of ground moisture. This means that ring rigidity and complete chemical inertness come to the fore.

Water pipes in the ground must be highly durable and chemically inert

But by definition there cannot be any significant changes in temperature or exposure to ultraviolet radiation.

Problematic water pipes at the entrance to the house always require special attention. Here, pipes usually have to rise from depth, that is, enter an area of ​​very significant temperature differences, pass through foundations or ceilings. In such areas it is impossible to do without high-quality thermal insulation, and most often also electrical heating. In addition, the pipe passage must be well sealed to avoid unnecessary heat loss.

Water supply sections located in cold basements or basements may also require insulation and even heating.

Why and how to organize electric heating of water supply?

In regions with a harsh winter climate, there is no way without this... Even the highest quality thermal insulation does not guarantee that with the onset of cold weather in certain sections of the pipe the water will not be “grabbed” by frost. How can you organize

TO internal departments water pipes located in heated areas of the house, the requirements are no longer so severe. But here, too, you should determine in advance, for example, what type of gasket will be used. For example, if the house is wooden, then the pipe layout will definitely be open. And even the aesthetic qualities of the pipes can come to the fore - so that the water supply does not spoil the interior.

By the way, regardless of the material of construction of the house, if metal pipes are chosen (again, it doesn’t matter what kind), then the laying will also be exclusively open. However, let's make a reservation - there is an exception, which will be discussed in due time.

If you plan to remove pipes into the walls, then the appropriate material is also thought out in advance. Polypropylene and PVC pipes are well suited for this; they are durable, non-corrosive and have very reliable welded joints.

The water supply is sometimes laid temporarily, externally, for example, only for the summer for dacha conditions (or, as an option, a “summer” area for watering the garden). As a rule, in such cases plastic pipes are used, and the most important criterion The evaluation will be thermal stability (can be very hot in the sun) and immunity to ultraviolet radiation.

For open “summer” wiring, it is best to use HDPE pipes with appropriate sets of connecting fittings and other fittings - both are quite simple and can be easily dismantled at the end of the season. However, protection from sun rays is still needed

• For all water pipes without exception, regardless of the material, site and installation method, the most important parameter is the diameter. More precisely, it is the internal diameter (Dy - conditional diameter), on which the performance of the created water pipeline or its separate “branch” depends.

We will talk more about the dependence of water pressure on the length of the pipe and its diameter in this article a little later.

• In any case, but especially if you plan to carry out the work yourself, the complexity of installing the pipework is assessed. Sometimes this requires high professional skills, but installation of some types is easy to master even for beginners.

Now let's look at the variety of pipes offered - what are the advantages and disadvantages of different types.

Types of water pipes

Metal pipes

VGP steel pipes

Nowadays, it is probably difficult to find a person who would start from scratch to create his own autonomous water supply system exclusively from VGP steel pipes. Meanwhile, a couple of decades ago there was practically no alternative to this material.

GNP steel pipes have served faithfully for many decades, and continue to serve today

Advantages steel pipes are obvious - they are high strength, resistance to any practically possible temperatures, to increased pressure in the water supply network, quite impressive durability, judging by the fact that in old houses 40-50 years old they sometimes continue to be used.

Pipes, for all their strength, are quite plastic, and allow some components of the system to be installed without bends. In a word, if there is special device, the pipe can be bent at the required angle. We are, of course, talking about small diameters (say, ½ and ¾ inches).

But this is probably where the list of advantages can end. And without even including the supposedly affordable cost. Prices for rolled metal products cannot be called low now, and other pipes may turn out to be several times cheaper.

Now let's look at flaws :

• The material is very massive, which complicates both its transportation and carrying out installation work.
• Installation itself is a very complex, time-consuming procedure.

They can be connected using welding - electric or gas, and welding a high-quality joint is a task for a fairly highly qualified craftsman. A beginner obviously won’t be able to cope.

In addition, it is not always possible to transfer welding work with its very unique specifics inside the house (apartment), and definitely you never want to.

Another option is threaded connections. Yes, it is possible, but it still requires a lot of effort and time. Special attention You always have to pay attention to sealing such connections so that they do not leak. Although the sale has rearranged a wide abundance necessary details– tees, adapters, couplings, bends, bends, taps, etc., you still cannot avoid the rather complex and responsible task of thread cutting.

Is it difficult to cut threads on steel pipe?

If you look at the demonstration of this process, everything seems very simple. But in reality, such an operation requires certain knowledge, skills, and skills in working with thread-cutting tools. Read more in a special publication on our portal.

The connections are, I must say, very reliable in both versions. But when welding there is another disadvantage - the impossibility of disassembling the unit. However, in many cases this quality is not required; it can be sacrificed precisely in favor of increasing reliability. As we will see later, polymer pipes have a somewhat similar situation.

• The main disadvantage of VGP pipes is corrosion, which cannot be avoided since we are talking about black steel. Rust that forms inside the pipe channel can seriously spoil the nutritional quality of water. And for domestic needs, using water that gives off a red color is not the greatest pleasure. In addition, the resulting rust flakes, breaking away from the walls as they grow under the influence of water flow, can seriously impair the conductivity of the pipe. They sometimes create very difficult to remove blockages on bends, in taps and valves, in narrowing areas, etc.

Corrosion products of black steel can sharply narrow the lumen of the pipe and even cause complete blockage of the channel

In addition, corrosion is the main factor limiting the durability of steel pipelines. It’s just that over time the pipe walls can be eaten through. Moreover, oxidation can occur both from the inside and outside if the pipe is not painted (not treated with an anti-corrosion compound) and is located in an unfavorable, humid environment.

Among other things, corrosive deposits can become a breeding ground for colonies of ferrous bacteria. And these microorganisms not only spoil the organoleptic qualities of water, but at a certain concentration can also cause gastrointestinal disorders.

• The surface of the walls inside VGP steel pipes is very far from ideal smoothness. Its roughness promotes the deposition of corrosive or salt deposits. But even in its pure form, such pipes have significantly higher hydraulic resistance values, which must be taken into account when designing a home system.

Galvanized pipes VGP

Some shortcomings can be avoided by using galvanized steel pipes - they resist corrosion much longer. But this, of course, immediately affects the cost of the products. In addition, galvanized pipes are undesirable in a system where water for food needs is taken from. Zinc is a very active metal and can give very unwanted reactions with the chemical composition of water coming from an autonomous ground source. And in general, you should be careful with the ingestion of zinc into the body. By the way, over time, such pipes gradually lose their anti-corrosion qualities. Zinc may be disrupted protective covering and during installation - from welding, cutting, deep scratches, etc.

Galvanized steel pipes: undesirable for home plumbing... But for a heating system they will be just right

Stainless steel pipes

Now let's take a look at stainless steel pipes. By definition, corrosion resistance, high strength, and excellent durability should be all right here.

This is true. Many of the shortcomings of conventional VGP steel pipes were successfully avoided. And it would not be a big mistake to say that a well-installed water supply system made from such pipes can be considered almost eternal - all that remains is to change the final plumbing fixtures that have exhausted their service life from time to time.

Stainless steel pipes are either seamless or welded. The former are considered more reliable, able to withstand extreme temperatures and pressures. But for the water supply system and the reliability of welded stainless pipes, it is more than enough. And they are still much cheaper than seamless rolled ones.

A water supply system made from stainless steel pipes can probably last indefinitely. But not everyone can afford such a “pleasure”.

But this is “internal price competition”, since against the general background the cost of any stainless steel pipes looks frighteningly high. Which, in principle, limits their widespread use - there are much more affordable acceptable solutions.

By the way, with such pipes there will probably be more problems during installation of the system. Stainless steel can be welded - but an experienced craftsman and appropriate equipment with consumables are required. If you are planning coupling connections, then you should correctly understand that threading a stainless pipe is very different from a similar operation on a conventional VGP. And at home, this is hardly feasible.

True, not so long ago flexible corrugated stainless steel pipes appeared on the building materials market. They are equipped with very comfortable and extremely reliable system connecting threaded fittings, which makes installation of the system quite simple.

One of the main advantages of such pipes is the ability to give the necessary bends, which allows you to reduce the number of connecting joints to a minimum

Outwardly, such pipes resemble flexible hoses (and, by the way, they are quite often used in this “hypostasis”). But in reality, they are able to withstand very high pressures and temperatures, that is, they can be used without fear for both heating systems and plumbing.

Despite the apparent simplicity of the connecting units of corrugated stainless steel pipes, they are characterized by very high reliability

Such a pipe can be purchased in a coil and laid, say, from the collector on the floor to the point of consumption in a segment, without unnecessary connections. The flexibility of the products allows you to navigate turns without bends, and there are a lot of these turns. The reliability of such pipes allows them to be placed in the thickness of the screed or walled up in grooves cut into the walls. And accordingly, reduce the length of water supply sections to a minimum, running them directly or along another shortest path, where possible.

Do not be afraid of the apparent increased hydraulic resistance due to the corrugation of the walls. In fact, the inside of the channel is covered with a thin protective layer of polymer film, which gives the necessary tightness and makes the walls absolutely smooth, so that no deposits linger on them.

For wiring inside the house - almost perfect option, unless, of course, you pay attention to the cost of the material. And most often, alas, you have to pay attention, and sigh heavily: “It’s tempting, but I won’t pull it...”.

Copper pipes

Copper pipes can also be considered close to the ideal material for creating a water supply system. If we are talking, of course, about its departments located in the premises of a house or apartment. Using copper in external areas covered by soil is complete nonsense.

Copper pipes are reliable and durable, and even quite beautiful. But it’s also not without its drawbacks.

Pipes made from unannealed and annealed copper are available for sale. The former are famous for their highest resistance to stress and are able to withstand extreme pressure surges. True, due to low plasticity, even simply bending such a pipe is problematic.

High-temperature heating of copper followed by cooling in a certain mode (so-called annealing) changes the properties of this material. The metal acquires ductility and flexibility, and it is much easier to work with tubes made of annealed copper. It may be objected that annealing reduces the strength qualities of pipe products. Yes this is true. But such a tube will definitely withstand 20 atmospheres, and at home even ten bar is a rather rare occurrence.

Copper pipe connections can be made using various technologies.

• Non-separable units are often mounted using capillary soldering - special solder, connecting parts with sockets (couplings, bends, tees, fittings, etc.) and a miniature gas burner are used. Such connections, when performed well, are distinguished by excellent reliability. True, it is unlikely that it will be possible to perform such operations on your own, without any experience at all. Although, the task cannot be called supernaturally difficult, and you can learn quite quickly.

Assembling a section of a water pipeline from copper pipes using capillary soldering technology

• Collet fittings for copper pipes are used for installation. For both their installation on pipe sections and for further assembly of the section, the master may need just a set of wrenches.

Push-in fitting for copper pipe

• Crimp press fittings are considered more reliable, as they ensure guaranteed tightness of the connections. The only catch is the cost of such components, and the fact that the work will require a special tool. And, of course, the skills to work with it correctly.

When professionally assembling plumbing or heating systems from copper pipes, connection technology is often used in press fittings using special crimping pliers

• Finally, you can use the old well-known connection method - flaring the edge of a copper pipe and then using a union nut. The only thing is that this technology is undesirable in those parts of the system that will be hidden in the screed or in the thickness of the wall. Similar connecting nodes should be available, since of all those listed above, they are, alas, the least reliable.

Now let's take a closer look at the general advantages and disadvantages of copper pipes. They cannot in any way be called publicly available material (in terms of cost), that is, the choice must be fully conscious, since a mistake will not be cheap.

TO benefits copper pipes include the following:

• High-quality copper combines high strength with ductility. This makes it possible to produce pipes with thin walls that can withstand all expected pressure loads. The material is lightweight and easy to install.
• Such pipes are not afraid of either elevated (more than 100 degrees) or negative temperatures. Again, thanks to its plasticity, even when the water freezes, the pipe will not break.
• At the same time, the coefficient of linear thermal expansion of copper is small, and this should not be a problem.
• Copper is quite active chemical element, but very quickly becomes covered with a layer of oxides, which ensure further inertness of the pipe to the aquatic environment. That is, you can practically not be afraid of corrosion - those chemical compounds that could “break through” the protective layer of oxides are not a priori contained in tap water. And the oxides themselves do not have any negative effect on the quality of drinking water.
• Copper pipes, due to the specific properties of this metal, are easy to cut, clean, and bend within certain limits. Copper lends itself well to tinning and soldering.
• Smooth internal surfaces of pipe walls minimize head loss due to hydraulic resistance.
• Copper water supply, if it is installed efficiently, can even become a decoration of the room - there is no special need to disguise it.

Copper pipes in this bathroom interior, in addition to their main task, have turned into a kind of decorative element

Now let's look at flaws of this material:

• Many people are immediately put off by the price, that is, it becomes a decisive argument in favor of choosing other pipes. What can you do - good things rarely come cheap.
• Self-installation without the appropriate skills is difficult to perform efficiently. And conducting “training” in order to gain experience with copper pipes and fittings is a very expensive “pleasure”.
• Copper does not like contact with some other metals, including aluminum and steel. This imposes some peculiarities on the design and installation of systems (more relevant, however, to heating). Ideally, copper pipes should be connected to other materials only through fittings or couplings made of copper alloys (bronze, brass).

Direct contacts of copper with aluminum and black steel are undesirable - these are potential sources of corrosion activation

It is also noted in the list of disadvantages that a copper pipe is easier to mechanically damage from the outside than a steel pipe. This may be true, but it can hardly be taken seriously as a “minus”. To damage a copper pipe, you need to press very hard, and in your right mind it is hardly possible to allow such an impact. With this approach, it’s time to “reject” all polymer pipes in advance.

By the way, we are just now moving on to polymer pipes.

Polymer-based pipes

The times when pipes were made exclusively from metal are long gone. Modern polymer products can cope with the task, and in many respects such pipes are even superior to their metal “brothers”.

HDPE pipes

This “mysterious abbreviation” hides pipes made of low-density polyethylene. And, I must say, for external sections of the water supply system, up to the home pumping station or collector, it is difficult to think of anything more practical.

Their production is based on the requirements of GOST 18599-2001 “Polyethylene pressure pipes”. The word “pressure” in the name speaks for itself.

HDPE pressure pipes – optimal solution for external sections of water supply

Production is carried out using continuous extrusion technology at a raw material melt temperature of 120-150 degrees, pressure up to 2 MPa (about 20 atmospheres). This technology gives finished products high density and strength.

For water supply, only black pipes are used (according to GOST, of course). Moreover, they must have appropriate color codes.

A– three blue longitudinal stripes, evenly distributed along the outer wall of the pipe, indicate that it is suitable for installing a water supply system with drinking water.

b– similar yellow stripes make it clear that the pipe is intended for laying gas lines.

V– black pipes without stripes intended for installation of technical pressure pipelines.

It is clear that for home use you need to choose a pipe with blue stripes. By the way, if the seller convinces you that the products he offers without color markings or with other colors are just a different variety, you should not believe him. Violation of labeling rules is a direct non-compliance with GOST, and it’s hard to say what other “surprises” such products may hide...

Of course, pipes that allow contact with drinking water are more expensive than others. But saving on issues related to people's health seems completely inappropriate.

Pipes differ in material density - they are divided into polyethylene grades PE-63, PE-80, PE-100. In domestic conditions, PE-80 is usually used for pipes of small diameter, and PE-100 if a diameter is required, for example, over 50 - 60 mm. But this is a general recommendation and is not mandatory. But we refuse PE-63 anyway.

The next important parameter of HDPE pipes is the ratio of diameter and wall thickness. It is designated by the abbreviation SDR, and can take values ​​from SDR 7.4 to SDR 41. The lower this indicator, the thicker the pipe wall. Accordingly, its strength increases, flexibility indicators change - the pipe can be bent without the risk of bending to a smaller turning radius.

At the household level, SDR 9 pipes are most often used; SDR 11; SDR 13.6; SDR17; SDR 21; SDR 26.

The marking of the corresponding GOST HDPE pipes must be located on the outer wall and may look like this:

1 – name of the pipe manufacturing company.

2 – brand of low-density polyethylene. In the example under consideration - PE100.

3 – ratio of diameter to wall thickness, SDR 13.6.

4 – this marking also indicates PN – nominal pressure. PN20 indicates that the rating for this pipe is 20 bar (atmospheres).

5 – pipe diameter and wall thickness in millimeters.

6 – in addition to the color stripes, the purpose of the pipe is also indicated in text: in this case, for drinking water.

7 – GOST, which the product must comply with, is indicated.

8 – auxiliary data, for example, batch number, release date and time. Since pipes are often supplied in coils, marks may be applied indicating the length.

Nominal pressure indicators are not always indicated on the labeling. What to do then, how to find out what pressure load the purchased pipe is designed for? It is clear that this indicator depends on the diameter, the grade of polyethylene, and the SDR ratio.

For example, a table like this comes to the rescue. It contains a sample of up to DN110 - it is unlikely that a pipe with an even larger diameter will be used in a home water supply.

Please note that pipes with the same SDR, but made from different grades of PE (80 or 100), also give different PN values.

At the same time, the table indicates the pipe wall thickness (PV) in millimeters and specific gravity(UM) in kilograms, that is, how much one linear meter weighs.

Diameter HDPE pipes, mm	SDR 26		SDR 21		SDR 17		SDR 13.6		SDR 11		SDR 9
	PE 80 PN 5		PE 80 PN 6.3		PE 80 PN 8		PE 80 PN 10		PE 80 PN 12.5		PE 80 PN 16
	PE 100 PN 6.3		PE 100 PN 8		PE 100 PN 10		PE 100 PN 12.5		PE 100 PN 16		PE 100 PN 20
	TC, mm	UM, kg	TC, mm	UM, kg	TC, mm	UM, kg	TC, mm	UM, kg	TC, mm	UM, kg	TC, mm	UM, kg
DU 16	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	2,0	0,09
DN 20	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	-	2,0	0,116	2,3	0,132
DN 25	-	-	-	-	-	-	2,0	0,148	2,3	0,169	2,8	0,198
DU 32	-	-	-	-	2,0	0,193	2,4	0,229	3,0	0,277	3,6	0,325
DN 40	-	-	2,0	0,244	2,4	0,292	3,0	0,353	3,7	0,427	4,5	0,507
DN 50	2,0	0,308	2,4	0,369	3,0	0,449	3,7	0,545	4,6	0,663	5,6	0,786
DU 63	2,5	0,488	3,0	0,573	3,8	0,715	4,7	0,869	5,8	1,05	7,1	1,25
DN 75	2,9	0,668	3,6	0,821	4,5	1,01	5,6	1,23	6,8	1,46	8,4	1,76
DN 90	3,5	0,969	4,3	1,18	5,4	1,45	6,7	1,76	8,2	2,12	10,1	2,54
DN 110	4,2	1,42	5,3	1,77	6,6	2,16	8,1	2,61	10,0	3,14	12,3	3,78

The thickness of the walls, that is, the SDR, also affects the flexibility of the pipe. Since the pipes are supplied in long-length coils, it becomes possible to lay even complex underground sections in a single section, without using any connections. That is, the pipe being installed has to be given a certain bend. She gives in to this, but, of course, up to certain limits, otherwise she can simply be broken.

The ability to lay curved sections of water supply without additional joints is one of the most important advantages of HDPE pipes. But when bending, certain limits must still be observed.

When planning a route, you can rely on this table:

Standard SDR ratio	Temperature at which installation work is carried out and permissible bending radii based on pipe diameter DN
	0 ℃	10 ℃	20℃
SDR 41	125 DN	85 DN	50 DN
SDR 33	125 DN	85 DN	50 DN
SDR 26	75 DN	50 DN	30 DN
SDR 21	75 DN	50 DN	30 DN
SDR 17.6	50 DN	35 DN	20 DN
SDR 17	50 DN	35 DN	20 DN
SDR 13.6	50 DN	35 DN	20 DN
SDR 11	50 DN	35 DN	20 DN
SDR 9	50 DN	35 DN	20 DN

The connection of HDPE pipes is made in different ways.

• When large water mains are installed, the most acceptable technology is diffuse welding of these pipes. For this purpose it is used special equipment allowing for butt welding.

In such machines, the two abutting ends of adjacent pipes are first faced simultaneously. Then the trimmer is replaced with a heating element, which brings the stripped ends to a state of melting. After this, the heater is removed, and a special mechanical device ensures strictly coaxial approach and compression of the pipes by the fused ends, due to which a uniform and very reliable weld is formed.

The method is excellent, but is rarely used in private practice, as it requires both special equipment and a trained operator.

• Another industrial method Installation of HDPE pipes involves the use of special electric welding couplings. Inside such a product, in the thickness of the plastic, there is a heating element (spiral). Two of its contacts are brought out.

The technology, of course, has its subtleties, but in general terms the process of creating a permanent connection looks like this:

The prepared ends of the two pipes are inserted from both sides into the coupling to the set depth.

The wires of a special transformer-rectifier are connected to the contacts brought to the surface of the coupling.

After starting the power device, a current of the required strength and voltage is passed through the heating coil, so as to cause melting and mutual diffusion of the contacting material of the coupling and pipes.

Modern welding equipment of this type is often fully automated. That is, it is enough to read the barcode on the coupling with a scanner - and the automation will independently select both the current parameters and the time of the operation and give a signal about its successful completion.

The technology is very reliable and productive. But, again, it’s not cheap due to expensive “consumables” and the need to attract a specialist with specific equipment.

• In private construction, the creation of detachable connections using special compression fittings is more often used. For such installation, in fact, no special tools or equipment are required at all.

The same store where the pipe is purchased should probably have a selection of components. Again, these will be couplings, adapters (for example, for inch pipe threads), bends, and tees. That is, a laying diagram with all its branches and other installation nuances that require such details must be drawn up in advance.

Despite the variety of forms, the design of the compression fitting itself remains essentially unchanged. The important thing is that its installation does not require any complex instrument– you just need to cut the pipe evenly, clean the end and chamfer it. All this can be easily done with a grinder or even hand tools– hacksaw, file, sandpaper.

True, an important remark needs to be made. It is still not recommended to place such connections without the possibility of their revision and tightening. That is, it is undesirable to bury such nodes in the ground. They write a lot, however, that, they say, nothing, they buried it, screwed it with sealant and it has been serving for 10 years, etc.

But the possibility of leakage still remains.

Therefore, whenever possible, they try to lay such HDPE pipes in one section directly from the source to the home “water supply station”. Or, at least, so that the collapsible connecting units are located in inspection wells or other places where it is possible to carry out checks from time to time.

You can invite a specialist if the situation is such that it is impossible to resolve the issue without several underground connections. And, by the way, some units of small diameter can be welded using the technology for installing polypropylene pipes, using the appropriate welding fixture (it is not expensive, and renting it for a day or two will not be difficult).

For such cases, manufacturers can offer appropriate connecting parts - couplings, bends, tees, etc. the temperature on the soldering iron is set slightly lower (200 ÷ 220 ℃) ​​than for PPR, and the mutual fixation of the parts after connection is maintained, on the contrary, longer, about a minute.

After checking, such connections can be completely buried in a trench or hidden in a wall.

But it is better, we repeat, to try to lay the outer section of the water supply system with one solid pipe - a lot of problems will be immediately eliminated.

Let us briefly summarize the advantages and disadvantages of such HDPE pipes for water supply.

To their benefits the following can be attributed:

• Environmentally friendly material - it does not spoil the quality of drinking water and does not harm the environment.
• The pipes are quite light, as can be seen from the table above. This facilitates both their transportation and installation.
• There is no talk of any corrosion.
• The walls of the pipes are smooth, that is, the hydraulic resistance with loss of pressure is low, deposits do not accumulate on the surfaces.
• The release form (multi-meter coils) and the flexibility of the pipes make it possible in some cases to lay external sections of the water supply system in one piece, without additional connections.
• A variety of connection methods, including those available even to inexperienced craftsmen (you can learn literally in a matter of hours).
• Pipes can be dismantled for subsequent use. Those that have become unusable can be easily disposed of and recycled.
• The flexibility of the pipes allows them to withstand some instability, ground movement, and even earthquakes.
• A certain elasticity of the walls is an excellent protection against water hammer and even damage to the required water when the water in them freezes (the frost resistance of the material itself is estimated at -70 ℃). Although, of course, it is better never to let the water in the main freeze.
• The cost of the material looks quite affordable, especially taking into account the specifics of installing a water supply system, which can often be done on your own.

• HDPE pipes have a fairly low upper limit of operating temperature. The recommended “nominal” is up to +40 ℃, short-term heating to + 65 ÷ 70 ℃ is allowed, and then thermal deformation begins. That is, they can be used exclusively for cold water.
• Such pipes do not like direct sunlight either - the ultraviolet component has a destructive effect on plastic.

Both of these circumstances require the pipes to be closed even when laying a temporary summer water supply in country conditions or in the garden.

Otherwise, it is difficult to find other significant shortcomings in terms of organizing the external part of the home plumbing. No, of course, HDPE pipes can also be used for internal installation. But simply for a number of reasons (including savings), it may be more profitable and convenient to use another material in the house itself, for example, polypropylene pipes.

This is what they usually do. A HDPE pipe of the required diameter is laid from a water source (well, well or city sewer) to the house. Preferably, as has been noted more than once, in one fragment, that is, without joints. Well, then, in the room where the pumping station is organized or the hydraulic accumulator and collector are installed, a transition is made to more acceptable home laying pipes. Most often it is polypropylene, although many craftsmen prefer metal-plastic, and in some cases even cross-linked polyethylene pipes.

Video: Technology for connecting HDPE water pipes with compression fittings

Other types of pipes - polypropylene (PP), cross-linked polyethylene (PEX), metal-plastic

Pipes made of low-density polyethylene (HDPE) were described in detail. This is not surprising - the material can be considered unique for external sections of the water supply system.

For internal wiring, other pipes are usually used. It has its own specifics, especially since many of these pipes are suitable not only for cold and hot water supply, but also for heating systems.

There will be no details in this publication. The fact is that each of the types listed in the title of this subsection deserves separate consideration. And such material is already available on the pages of our portal. So there’s not much point in repeating ourselves - it’s easier to offer detailed reviews with links to them.

First, about the leader in terms of availability and popularity, polypropylene:

Polypropylene pipes are an excellent solution for home plumbing.

In terms of cost, this material is probably the most affordable. The only difficulty is that the pipes are installed exclusively using diffuse welding technology, which means you will have to master it. But it is not so difficult, and experience comes quickly. This is described in detail in a separate publication on the portal.

What is the difference between cross-linked polyethylene pipes?

Special processing technologies for ordinary polyethylene give it special qualities. The essence of processing is the creation of additional intermolecular bonds, the so-called “cross-linking”. What qualities are acquired and where this material can be used is in a special article on our portal.

It must be said that pipes made of cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) in their pure form for plumbing are not used so often - they are more suitable for the contours of “warm floors”. But PEX is one of the materials used for the manufacture of so-called metal-plastic pipes. But they are used very widely for plumbing.

A material with unique qualities is metal-plastic pipes.

Such pipes combine high strength indicators and excellent flexibility while maintaining their given shape. True, not all products are the same, even if they are completely similar in appearance. Another portal publication will help you understand the nuances.

Presumably, clarity has been achieved with the types of pipes. But the question remains unclear: what diameter should we choose?

TOP 10 best manufacturers of polypropylene pipes

The speed of water flow in internal networks in accordance with the requirements of SNIP 2.04.01-85 “Internal water supply and sewerage of buildings” should not exceed 3 m/s. But for small-diameter pipes (and these are the ones that are used in private houses and apartments), the optimal speed can be considered from 0.6 to 1.0 m/s. Otherwise, hydraulic resistance increases sharply, leading to pressure losses, and the water supply system itself may begin to irritate its owners with its noise - it will “sing.”

For plumbing fixtures and household equipment there are approximate water consumption standards. Knowing them, and taking into account the probability of simultaneous switching on of devices, you can calculate the water consumption for the house as a whole or for some separate “branch” of the water supply system, to which several points of consumption are connected. This is not difficult if you use the calculator available on our portal.

How to calculate water consumption in a water supply system?

Having at your disposal the value of the required flow rate, knowing the optimal flow rate, it is easy to apply the formula to determine the required nominal diameter of the pipe.

D = √ (4 ×Q/(π × V)) ≈ 1.129 × √ (Q/V)

D- internal diameter of the pipe, m;

Q- required water flow, m³/s;

π - a well-known constant equal to 3.14……..;

V- optimal water flow speed in the pipe, m/s.

	Photo	Name	Rating	Price

To create an efficient, reliable and durable water supply system, it is necessary to thoroughly study the range of water pipes offered by our trade organizations and find out the differences in their technical characteristics.

Indeed, today there is a wide range of pipe products used to organize the water supply network. Each variety has its own advantages and disadvantages, which determines their scope of application.

There is a distinction between water supply networks based on the following criteria:

• Location. There are external networks that are exposed to the influence of external atmospheric factors and internal ones, on which such influences are minimized.
• Bandwidth. The water supply network is divided into main (general) and local. In the first case, large cross-section pipe products are used, designed to supply water to many consumers. In the second case, as a rule, pipe products with a cross section of 0.5 or ¾ inches are used.

Types of pipes used for plumbing systems

Currently, for organizing water supply in residential, public and production premises The following types of pipelines are used:

Steel

Are traditional material, used for almost a hundred years for the production of water supply pipeline systems. With proper operation, steel pipelines can regularly supply consumers with water for many decades.

The advantages of steel pipes include:

• Highest mechanical strength. These products are able to withstand mechanical loads many times higher than the maximum permissible for plastic analogues. This applies to both external influences - dynamic shocks, static loads, and internal pressure of the system.
• Another advantage of these products is that they are quite low coefficient of thermal expansion.

But today the use of steel pipelines is not the most promising investment due to the many shortcomings inherent in them:

• Significant mass, complicating installation/repair work of the water supply system.
• Low corrosion resistance. During transportation aquatic environment Corrosion processes quickly develop in steel pipelines, which leads to a decrease in the quality of drinking water, a decrease in the useful diameter of the system and premature destruction - the appearance of leaks and fistulas.
• Installation of pipeline systems made of black steel is carried out by welding or threaded connections, which requires significant labor costs. And threaded joints are the most weak point systems where there is a very high probability of depressurization and leaks.
• Characteristic of steel excessive condensation leads to similar corrosive deposits on the outer surface of the pipeline, which significantly worsens aesthetic performance.

For plumbing systems, two types of steel pipes are usually used:

• Welded. They are made from bent steel strip, butt-welded along the length.
• Seamless. They are made from round timber - long steel blanks on a special piercing machine.

Stainless

Stainless steel pipe systems for transporting hot/cold water have undoubted operational advantages over similar products made of ferrous metal. Their main advantage is the ability to resist corrosion processes for a long time.

Also stainless steel can withstand more high temperatures, chemical exposure, is hypoallergenic and absolutely safe for human health. It was the latter factor that determined the predominant use of stainless pipelines in the food, pharmaceutical and medicine industries.

Disadvantages of stainless steel systems include:

• High price. The production of high-alloy stainless alloys and products made from them is characterized by high complexity and, accordingly, cost.
• Difficulty of processing. Since stainless steel has increased mechanical strength compared to ferrous alloys, it is much more difficult to process with hand tools. In addition, welding stainless steel products requires specialized consumables and highly qualified welders.

Copper

Professionally executed copper pipework can serve as a designer decoration premises, since they are distinguished by a characteristic yellow-reddish sheen that can persist for a long time.

And since copper is a very expensive metal, products made from it in a private home indicate the high wealth of the owner, that is, they belong to the status category.

Copper pipe systems have many advantages, in addition to their beautiful appearance:

• Water pipes made from copper alloys have antibacterial properties, that is, they inhibit the development of pathogenic microbes.
• The service life of copper pipe systems is practically unlimited. Today there are water pipelines that have been successfully functioning without repairs for fifty years or more.
• Due to the ductility and softness of copper, they are easily subject to various types of mechanical processing: soldering, drilling, bending, cutting.
• Over time, copper piping does not develop mineral/biological deposits that reduce the diameter of the pipes.
• Highest corrosion resistance. Copper is practically not subject to corrosion processes. The maximum change during operation may be the appearance of a thin film of oxides, which in no way impedes the passage of water, but, on the contrary, imparts additional resistance to negative influences.

The disadvantages of copper pipework include only the highest cost among similar systems, the requirement for highly qualified installers and a fairly large mass.

Metal-plastic

One of the most popular when organizing water supply systems today are metal-plastic pipelines. These tubular products have three-layer construction: the inner layer is plastic, then there is a metal layer made of aluminum, the outer surface is also made of plastic.

Have undeniable advantages when organizing a majority modern systems water supply:

• Highest durability. The first pipelines manufactured using this technology are still operating successfully to this day. In general guarantee period The service life of metal-plastic pipe lines, subject to operating conditions, is at least fifty years.
• Complete absence of operating costs for pipeline cleaning(when using them to transport ordinary water) due to the impossibility of the formation of salt and bacteriological deposits on the inner surface of the pipes.
• Light weight pipe products along with sufficiently high mechanical strength.
• Smooth inner surface does not create resistance to the flow of liquid media.

But, like other pipe products, metal-plastic ones also have flaws. These include:

• Possibility of damage finished or installed network during the production of repair, construction or finishing works. Resistance to mechanical stress for metal-plastic products is significantly lower than for all-metal products.
• Insufficient, in comparison with the same steel pipe systems, resistance to temperature changes. Metal-plastic pipe lines are especially sensitive to frost.

All these factors limit the use of metal-plastic pipe products to constantly heated residential and industrial premises.

Metal-plastic water pipes cannot be used:

• as fire protection;
• as high pressure systems (at values ​​exceeding 10 bar);
• in high temperature rooms.

Polypropylene

Advantages:

This type of pipe product can withstand repeated freezing. Due to their high ductility and elasticity, polypropylene pipes return to their original dimensions after expansion as a result of water freezing in them.

The technology for assembling water pipes from polypropylene products allows us to minimize the likelihood of leaks at the connections. Polypropylene is very resistant to the ultraviolet spectrum of sunlight.

Accessories and various fittings for installing polypropylene water supply systems are quite low in cost.

Flaws:

• large wall thickness compared to the useful diameter;
• polypropylene pipes cannot be bent. Any turns must be organized using corner fittings;
• the resulting connections are permanent, which significantly complicates the process of repair work;
• the cost of polypropylene products is quite high.

For more information about choosing polypropylene pipes for a private home, watch the video:

Polyethylene or HDPE

Polyethylene pipelines or HDPE (made from low-density polyethylene) began to be used relatively recently, but have already gained the trust of consumers. The main advantages of polyethylene pipe products include:

• Unprecedented long service life. According to the developers, such pipe systems can last three hundred years. Manufacturers, however, indicate slightly different periods - up to fifty years.
• Such pipes Ideal for outdoor plumbing in a private house.
• Highest reliability pipe systems under normal operating conditions.
• No likelihood of corrosion processes occurring and the formation of bacterial or fungal colonies within the system.
• Highest resistance to water hammer. Thanks to its excellent ductility, polyethylene is able to withstand significant dynamic impacts.
• When installing water supply networks made of polyethylene pipes no additional protection required. And during their operation there is no need for regular maintenance.
• Excellent thermal insulation qualities. At underground installation in almost any conditions there is no need to organize additional thermal insulation.
• Relatively low cost.

The only significant disadvantage of polyethylene pipes is their low resistance to impact. ultraviolet radiation, therefore their use is limited to flush-mounted systems.

PVC

almost ideally meets the requirements for hot water supply equipment.

The main advantages of PVC pipes are:

• Minimum values ​​of coefficient of thermal expansion and linear stiffness, which allows you to keep the configuration of the hot water pipelines practically unchanged and use a smaller number of fasteners during the installation process. These indicators are especially important when installing vertical sections of water pipelines - risers.
• Absolute fire resistance. Thanks to the chlorine contained in the pipe material, ignition, as well as maintaining combustion, is impossible. This makes it possible to use polypropylene pipes to create fire extinguishing systems.
• And thanks to the almost perfectly polished inner surface, there is no friction of the transported liquids against the walls of the pipeline and the formation of lime and biological deposits is eliminated.
• Life time PVC water pipes can last up to a hundred years.

The disadvantages of PVC pipelines are:

• high thermal conductivity, which requires the use of additional thermal insulation when transporting hot water;
• low plasticity characteristics at low temperatures;
• impossibility of making threaded connections with metal elements.

Pipe installation in a private house

The installation of a water supply network in a private house can be done on your own, especially when using plastic pipes. Depending on the type of products used, the plumbing system is assembled in the following ways:

• Welded or through threaded connections– for steel pipelines. In most cases, stainless steel pipes are connected using threaded fittings.
• Using soldering. This method is suitable for copper pipework and some types of polymer products.
• Using a crimping press. This method is used when assembling a metal-plastic pipeline.

Water supply network wiring diagram for a two-story house

Water supply to a private house is usually carried out from the main water supply, pumping station or hydraulic accumulator. Wiring is carried out in kitchen premises, bathrooms and rooms. The first two categories of premises require hot water.

Water heating can be carried out centrally - through double-circuit heating boilers, various designs boilers, stoves, or carried out directly near the consumer - kitchen sink, bathroom. In this case, various models of instantaneous and storage water heaters are used.

In case of organization centralized system When heating water, it is advisable to insulate all outgoing pipes in order to minimize heat loss when there is a large distance between the heating source and the consumer.

A standard water supply network wiring diagram for a two-story house is shown in the following figure:

Maintenance and repair of internal pipelines

Maintenance of hot water supply and hot water supply systems is carried out based on the material of the pipes. Thus, metal plumbing systems require regular painting to avoid corrosion processes on the external surfaces of the pipes. It also requires periodic replacement or cleaning of filter elements, which can become clogged with iron oxide products and biological components.

All types of polymer pipes used in water supply systems require much less attention during operation. It is enough just to monitor their integrity and eliminate leaks that may arise as a result of insufficiently high-quality installation.

Repair of water supply pipelines usually comes down to replacing damaged sections, inserting new pipes, or, in case of minor damage, soldering/sealing leaks.

Price

Current prices for pipes used in indoor plumbing systems vary widely. Let's consider the approximate cost of water pipes made of different materials of the most popular section - ½ inch:

• steel water and gas seamless(wall thickness 2.5 mm) – about 100 rubles per linear meter;
• stainless steel the same diameter with a wall thickness of 2 mm will cost more than 150 rubles per linear meter;
• the most expensive are copper pipe products. One meter today costs about 270-300 rubles;
• metal-plastic, depending on the characteristics, costs from 45 to 90 rubles per meter;
• cost of regular polyethylene pipes today are the minimum among analogues - about twenty rubles per meter;
• polypropylene the pipeline will cost twice as much - the price of one meter is from 40 rubles;
• A polyvinyl chloride(PVC) can be found at a price of 30-35 rubles per linear meter.

Approximately the same price proportion for various fittings - joints, couplings, turns, splitters and others.

For more information on how to choose pipes for heating and plumbing in a private home, watch the video:

Results:

To summarize this article, I would like to draw your attention once again: metal pipelines today are far from the most successful for the production of a water supply network in a private house or apartment.

It is much more durable, more efficient and cheaper to use polymer products, and for a house in which people live year-round, it would be optimal to organize a PVC or metal-plastic water supply system, and for country house It is better to use freeze-resistant polyethylene pipe.

Choosing pipes for water supply in an apartment is a very non-trivial task, to solve which you need to have a certain set of knowledge.

Due to the fact that there is a fairly wide range of products of this type on the market, making the right choice will be very problematic. You may even have to resort to the services of a specialist in this field.

Types of pipes and features of their selection

An inexperienced consumer will need a large number of time to make the right choice. One of the main criteria is indicators of reliability and strength. Also, one should not forget about the level of price indicators and possible date operation of the product. Pipes must be resistant to temperature changes and. In addition, the installation procedure should not involve great difficulties.

When choosing pipes for water supply, you should pay attention to the material that was used to make these elements. Based on this, the main parts of the plumbing system may be different:

• steel;
• copper;
• plastic;
• metal-plastic.

Plastic pipes combine polypropylene and polyethylene elements. You can also add products made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC). Each of these product variations has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Steel pipes

Steel water supply pipes are quite durable. But it should be noted that this type of element of the plumbing system is not particularly popular today. Plastic or copper variations of pipes still remain the priority.

Steel pipes are increasingly used for water supply

As for this product, it is able to withstand large temperature differences and function under high pressure conditions. Such pipes can be made of black or galvanized steel. In the latter case, we can talk about high resistance to corrosion, which has a very positive effect on the overall service life.

The main problem with steel pipes is that they are susceptible to condensation. In addition, installation work may require special equipment and certain skills. Pipes for a water supply system made of steel can last more than fifty years, so there is still a demand for such products.

Advice! It is advisable to use steel pipes when reconstructing a water supply system from identical elements. If a new system is being built, it is recommended to choose an alternative option.

Advantages. Here we should focus on the long service life, which can reach fifty years under certain conditions. Among other things, steel pipes are distinguished by their durability and ability to function under high pressure conditions. Resistance to negative corrosive influences should also be added here.

Flaws. A coating forms on the inner surface of steel pipes, which impedes the passage of liquid and significantly deteriorates the quality of water. In this context, it is necessary to take all possible measures to prevent the appearance of such formations. The disadvantages of this material also include high electrical conductivity. The installation procedure when using steel pipes can present certain difficulties. Special tools may be needed to resolve this issue.

Copper pipes

Copper pipes are durable and reliable. At the same time, the option of constructing a water supply system using such elements is not the most practical, which is due to the complexity of the installation work. In addition, the price indicators of these products are quite high, so their purchase will involve large financial expenses.

Copper pipes for water supply are a fairly expensive option.

Copper is a very durable material that can last for seventy years. The main advantages of this product, which are resistance to mechanical damage, as well as the ability to operate at different temperatures, should also be added to the unique appearance of copper pipes. Thanks to this, you can solve design problems of any level of complexity. The room where these elements of the plumbing system are located can be significantly transformed.

Connecting elements for copper pipes

Important! Copper has beneficial properties for the human body. Due to the interaction of this material with chlorine, the formation of various harmful compounds does not occur. In this context, copper pipes look more than preferable.

Advantages. Pipes for the water supply system made of copper are durable and reliable. The expediency of choosing this element is also supported by its long service life, which can reach seventy years. Another significant advantage of copper pipes is their attractive appearance, which allows you to turn them into unique element design.

Connecting copper pipes requires special welding

Flaws. First of all, attention should be paid to the high price indicators of the products. In addition, copper pipes on the market today are presented in limited quantities, so finding them will be very problematic. To the high cost of the material, one should also add the costs of installation work, which are determined by the involvement of third-party specialists. Before installing copper pipes, it is necessary to carry out a mandatory system cleaning procedure.

Metal-plastic pipes

Metal-plastic pipes are a good option for arranging a summer house. For an apartment or residential building, it is recommended to choose another alternative. Such pipes are distinguished by their low weight and practicality. In this case, no problems should arise with the installation procedure. The presence of a multilayer structure allows us to talk about high strength indicators. A metal-plastic pipe consists of a metal frame, which is covered on both sides with plastic. In this case, the frame can be solid, spiral or perforated.

The service life of these elements is about thirty-five years. The material can withstand temperatures up to seventy-five degrees. Fittings are used as connecting elements.

Advantages

• Weak frost resistance;
• Easy installation;
• Ability to bend pipes;
• Low cost;
• Not required optional equipment for connecting pipes;
• Suitable for laying pipelines hidden under the soil.

TO clear advantages The material can be attributed to low price indicators, ease of installation work and the ability to be used for hidden installation of a water supply system.

Composition of metal-plastic (metal-polymer) pipes

Flaws

Here it should be noted the low frost resistance of metal-plastic, as well as the need for regular tightening of threaded connections. In addition, the cost of connecting elements, which are fittings, is quite high. The immediate connections of such a water supply system are not durable.

Plastic pipes

Plastic pipes are well suited for long-term use. They are distinguished by practicality and low price indicators. We can say that this material was able to absorb all the best features of its direct competitors. To make plastic, polypropylene, polyethylene or polyvinyl chloride can be used.

Polypropylene pipes

They are used not only for water supply, but also. To supply hot water, a reinforced variation of pipes is used, and for cold water, a regular one is used. The material can last 50 years. It can withstand temperatures up to 90 degrees.

Advantages

• Durability;
• Low cost;
• High tightness of connections;
• Possibility of use for water supply systems;
• Quality and ease of installation.

Almost any plastic pipes are suitable for cold water, since in an apartment they are not subject to significant temperature effects. For hot water, the choice needs to be taken much more seriously. Reinforced and unreinforced pipes are available for sale. What determines the choice among them?

Propylene has such an irreplaceable property as thermal elongation, unlike other types of pipes, only propylene has this property very high. For an unreinforced pipe, it can reach 150 mm per 10-12 m of pipe with temperature differences of 95-100 degrees - this is a huge value, so for such differences in the size of the pipe it is necessary to make all kinds of indents and compensation loops. To reduce this property to zero or to a minimum, reinforcement is used. In this case, the most stable pipe is a pipe with glass fiber and its thermal elongation is about 1.5 cm per 10-11 meters, in contrast to an unreinforced pipe.

There are also pipes reinforced with aluminum. Aluminum is a regular piece of foil that is sealed inside. It is not soldered inside and serves to reduce thermal elongation.

The strength of different reinforced pipes is the same. The only difference is thermal elongation. Fiberglass has the bare minimum. For aluminum reinforcement (internal or external) this number is approximately the same and is significantly larger than for a pipe with fiberglass and significantly less than for a pipe without reinforcement at all.

Installation features

The most convenient for installation is not reinforced pipe, there are simply no obstacles to a quality connection with the fitting. It is worth noting that pipes with fiberglass reinforcement are also easy to install. The fiberglass layer melts in the same way as the rest of the polypropylene, so the connections are very, very high quality and reliable.

As for pipes with aluminum reinforcement, it must be cleaned off, both with external and internal reinforcement, otherwise the aluminum layer will simply not allow the polypropylene layer to melt. There are special tools for this.

A special device is used for soldering polypropylene pipes

Conclusion

An unreinforced pipe can only be used in cold water supply. It is easy to install, cheap, and you don’t even need more in the cold water supply. An unreinforced pipe in this case is the best option.

For hot water supply, a reinforced pipe with fiberglass is the most convenient for installation, reliable, practical and least susceptible to thermal elongation. It is precisely because of this that it is preferable for hot water supply - it does not require any cleaning, will not “walk” or “jump” out of the clips, sag somewhere and will retain a decent appearance for a long time.

All others - with external and internal aluminum reinforcement and combined pipes - have a number of disadvantages, which makes them less preferable for use with hot water.