copper water pipe underground solder connections

Jun 16, 2005 3 Replies
W

Greetings,



Why are you not allowed to solder copper pipe which is going to be installed underground? I want to be very clear what question I am asking. I am not asking for 10 responses stating that I must not solder copper pipe to be used underground or why don't I just use a compression fitting. I know that. I am asking why I am not suppose to? I am not asking for the reason "because someone said so". I am asking about the underlying reason.



Thank you very much for your time and energy, William


Vote
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn
S

Water utilities don't allow soldered connections anywhere in the service lateral, esp before the meter.

They are concerned about the mechanical integrity of any joints which could later on (think- 100 years) leak, possibly resulting in revenue loss.

For services, the only coupling or terminating fitting allowed is a flare fitting AFAIK. Compression fittings are out along with soldered ones.

Hope that's what you were asking.

Jim

Vote
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn
P

I actually did not know that this was not allowed, I have seen it done and even worked on them. However, if you have ever tried to solder copper below grade you would know why it is frowned upon.

--

******** Bill Pounds
formatting link
Vote
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn
C

I was taught that soldered connections in contact with earth react chemically and deteriorate as a result of an induced di-electrical reaction. Would not bet the farm on it....

-- Troweller^nospam^@canada.com

Vote
Twitter Facebook LinkedIn

Join the Discussion

Have something to add? Share your thoughts — no account required.

Didn't find your answer?

Ask the community — no account required