Schedule 40 PVC or copper is the best way to go with water mains.
Because of these issues, PVC piping is not generally approved for use in houses for potable (drinkable) water. When PVC (and other plastics) are heated the processes of outgassing and the migration of chemical compounds from plastic begin.
PVC-U is the most common PVC type for pipes and fittings including transportation of drinking water, soil and waste, sewage and underground drainage and industrial applications.
PVC pipes, on the other hand, are primarily used for water main lines. This is because PVC is known for its corrosion and chemical resistance, in addition to the fact that it's lightweight, relatively cheap, and long lasting.
PVC is most commonly used for drain, waste, and vent lines. It is not recommended for use in potable water lines because it can leach chemicals into the water.
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a durable plastic pipe that is highly resistant to corrosion and impact damage. The material doesn't melt easily, which works well for underground water lines. PVC pipes also come in different diameters, so it is easy to find the right size for both residential and commercial applications.
Avoid using polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC). These pipes contain the highest levels of chemicals of concern and they are typically installed using hazardous solvents.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pipe is widely used for new water main applications. PVC pipe material is inexpensive, durable, and lightweight. Furthermore, it is corrosion resistant and nonreactive with most chemicals. Only ductile iron pipe is used as often for water main applications.
PVC is only intended for cold water and has a maximum service temperature of 140° F for pressure applications. Not only can CPVC handle higher temperatures than PVC, but its increased temperature resistance enables it to perform better within PVC's working range.
PVC and CPVC are more cost-effective than PEX if you price clients by the hour, as they require many fittings secured by clamps cement. PVC and CPVC have more strength and durability than PEX because they are more rigid, making them better suited to outdoor applications where the piping may be subjected to trauma.
MDPE pipe, also known as medium density polyethylene pipe, is used externally for supplying water to a property, usually mains water, up to the stopcock of the building. This type of pipe is bright blue so it can be easily identified in the ground. This pipe is great for long-term use to supply water to a property.
While touted as an inexpensive, durable choice for communities seeking to replace their lead service lines, research shows that dozens of harmful chemicals, including many for which there are no drinking water standards, can leach into tap water from PVC and CPVC pipe walls, fittings, gaskets, and the cements used for ...
Using PVC plastic for plumbing and pipes
It can be used with many different fittings and sizes. Typically, PVC pipes are used for sink, toilet, and bathtub drain lines, as well as for main water supply lines, irrigation piping, and vent stacks.
In commercial buildings, Schedule 40 PVC conduit is used to route electrical and communication cables through walls, ceilings, and floors. It's ideal for office spaces, retail stores, and public buildings, offering a cost-effective and easy-to-install solution for both new construction and renovations.
Schedule 40 PVC pipe is a type of piping that is used for many different purposes. This type of pipe is very strong and durable, making it perfect for many different uses. Some common uses of this type of pipe are to store water, transport water, and supply water to homes and businesses.
PVC can last even longer than steel or copper, which are some of the most durable metals for plumbing pipes. Ability to handle pressure: PVC can withstand high water pressure, which makes it an excellent choice for the main supply line in your home.
Schedule 40 PVC is commonly used for drinking water. The “Schedule 40” part defines its strength and thus basically its pressure handling capability. Manufacturers require manufacturing and handling processes to satisfy “potable water” designation for their PVC products.
Fragility and Brittleness. ASTM F441 CPVC pipes can become brittle over time, particularly under stress or extreme temperatures. This brittleness makes them more prone to cracking and failure. In colder climates, this issue is exacerbated as pipes can freeze and break easily.
CPVC Pipe. The downfalls of PVC pipe are where CPVC excels. Known for its capacity to withstand heat as well as its ability to safely carry drinking water, CPVC has a variety of traits useful in residential water lines.
It's a good idea to install 1/2-inch or 3/4-inch PEX for your main lines for adequate water flow. When replacing old water supply lines with PEX the standard is to use the same size plumbing, although you can transition from 3/4-inch to 1/2-inch plumbing with an adapter.
Generally speaking, the main pipeline from the street to your home is either ¾ or 1 inch in diameter. Supply pipes are ¾ inch in diameter and individual components are ½ inch in diameter.
If you're using the PVC pipe and fittings for irrigation or for plumbing in your home, schedule 40 PVC will probably get the job done just fine and at a cheaper cost. Although schedule 40 PVC has a lower PSI than schedule 80, it is more than capable of handling the pressures of these more routine types of applications.
PVC has a peak temperature threshold of 140° Fahrenheit. For applications requiring temperatures above that, CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) is recommended. CPVC offers some benefits over PVC, but at a slightly higher price point.
While PVC is excellent for water service lines and DWV applications, it's not recommended for hot-water distribution systems because it can only withstand temperatures up to 140℉.