Plumbing question

[eag111]

I want to tap into an existing cold water line in my garage. Without giving more explanation than necessary, I want to know if I can de- solder the bottom of a T connection without ruining the two straight connections across the top. In this case, the two parallel connections are 3/4 inch, and the connection I want to remove the pipe from is 1/2 inch. Can I wrap the joints I want to leave in place with a wet cloth? Is that even necessary? Thanks in advance for any help. Eric

[Speedy Jim]

Assuming you can drain all the water from the lines/fitting, yes, you can desolder the 1/2" line.

If you cool the other 2 joints with wet cloth, it will take more heat/longer to desolder the 1/2". Trade off. Can the surrounding structure withstand all the heat? Place metal heat shield between the fitting and anything likely to burn.

Jim

[Colbyt]

It can be done but it is really tough to do. Some of the chemical coolers might work better than your wet cloth.

Cleaning that joint to reuse it is also a potential problem.

If there is any other way to do what you want I would explore those options first.

[S. Barker]

You're best off taking the t out and replacing it. After you clean all the solder off the pipes the best you can. And no , on the wet rag. You'll never get it hot on the third side if you have that rag heat sinking the heat away.

s

[eag111]

Thanks to all for the advice....I've decided to take out the fitting rather than try to reuse it.

[jim]

Never reuse copper fittings easiest way to get a split joint.