Choosing the Right Pipe Types for Clean Water

The clean water we use every day usually flows through a piping installation, so choosing a good pipe to carry it is very important. When choosing a suitable pipe, you will naturally look for one that lasts, is durable and does not leak easily. There are several factors to consider when choosing the right pipe for your needs, and comparing clean water pipe types by material is one of them. The type of material can be decisive when choosing which pipe to install, as each material has different advantages.

Clean Water Pipe Types by Material

Stainless Steel Pipe

Stainless steel pipe has several advantages: it is sturdy, strong and hard to damage, suitable for high-temperature environments, and has good resistance to corrosion and UV radiation. These advantages make stainless steel pipe the right choice for locations near the coast and for anyone looking for a durable, rust-resistant pipe.

PEX Pipe

PEX pipe is made from fairly flexible polyethylene plastic, so it can be bent around certain corners without adding extra fittings. Installing this pipe reduces the number of joints needed, which automatically lowers installation costs and minimizes the potential for leaks. Before installing it, the main thing to consider is where it will be used. This type is only suitable for indoor water distribution, because its outer layer is not UV resistant.

Copper Pipe

Copper pipe is another type commonly used for clean water, and it is widely used because of its own advantages. It is corrosion resistant, suitable for both hot and cold water lines, and non-toxic, which makes it safe for carrying drinking water. Because it is made of copper, it is also fire resistant and does not burn easily. Installing copper pipe is fairly complicated compared with other pipe types, so you may need the help of an experienced pipe installer.

PVC Pipe

PVC pipe can be used to distribute cold or hot water, and its material is non-toxic, so the water it carries can be used for drinking. PVC pipe comes in various wall thicknesses and can be matched to a wide range of applications, from homes to wastewater and sewer lines.

One advantage of PVC pipe is its relatively affordable price compared with other pipe types, because it is made from low-carbon plastic and its production requires less energy and labor. Its light weight makes it easy to transport and install, and it needs no special maintenance.

Brass Pipe

Brass pipe has outstanding rust resistance when it contains between 67% and 85% copper. Besides being made of a material that is hard to damage, brass pipe is rust-proof, works well for both cold and hot water systems, and tends to last longer than other pipe materials. Because it is so reliable, it is also widely used to carry chemicals, flammable gases and other hazardous substances.

HDPE Pipe

HDPE pipe has two main advantages: high flexibility and reliable durability. It is made from quality plastic, and because it is lightweight, HDPE pipe speeds up installation; its flexibility makes it easy to bend, so it maneuvers well even without fittings. HDPE pipe is exceptionally tough, able to handle a wide range of pressures, and resistant to corrosion and chemicals. Choosing the right pipe for your needs is a long-term decision that will affect your water distribution requirements.