My plumber is putting together a new copper plumbing system and is using running water to cool down the pieces he has just soldered. Does this alter the properties of the pipe and/or fittings, or affect the performance of the plumbing system over the long term?
Thanks in advance for your helpful replies.
no
Can't imagine why. Most plumbers just sweat the fittings, and walk away and go do something else for a few minutes. Sounds like excess work.
No, it shouldn't. And doing so the plummer is probably saving his time and your money.
I can't believe that sum bitch did that! Water will make that copper shrink!!!!
You will usually get away with that but a guy who cares will just wet the pipe near the joint. Some folks will make a case for thermal shock and the difference in expansion rate between solder and copper weakening the joint. I bet you can't do it on a job where an engineer is watching.
Oh! Heaven FORBID if a (insert insult here) engineer is watching!
Well, just cold water, that is.
Wrap engineer in three layers duct tape?
Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.
Ask the community — no account required