Connecting PVC Pipes

First you will need to measure, cut and prepare your PVC Pipes. For detailed instructions on how to do this, find out Hub called Cutting PVC Pipe.

After the Pipe is cut and free from debris, you need to use a PVC Primer. This primer washes off any manufacturers labels and softens the pipe slightly which helps to create a tighter seal.

Once primed, apply PVC Cement to both the PVC Pipe (outside) and PVC Pipe Fitting (inside).

Finally, connect the two pieces slowly and in one motion twist the pipe 90 degrees. Hold the joint tight for about 15 seconds to prevent it from popping out. Then wipe away the excess cement.

This will create a clean, leak-proof joint. Repeat as needed for other PVC Pipes and PVC Pipe Fittings.

See the Video and Images below for additional help.

This process is slightly different, and a little more difficult but is possible for one with moderate skill in soldering.

For the PVC Pipe:

You will follow the same steps as above, but you will use a threaded PVC Pipe Fitting which will attach to a threaded copper fitting that you will be attaching to your existing Copper pipe.

For the Copper Pipe:

Be sure to turn off any water or anything running to the copper pipe. Drain the pipe thoroughly and be sure that it is completely dry. Even a drop of water can create a weak seal.

Using an emery cloth, scuff the copper pipe about 1-2 inches back from the part where you want to make the connection. You will notice that the pipe gets shiny when you do this (that's a good thing). Do the same thing with the inside of the copper fitting. Apply an even coating of flux to the outside of the Copper Pipe and the Inside of the copper fitting. Join the two slowly and twist 180 degrees to spread the flux evenly.

Using a propane or acetylene torch, gently heat the joint where the pipe and fitting meet. Apply the heat steadily around the entire joint. When the flux begins to boil and melt out of the joint, begin applying the solder. Touch the solder to the joint where the Pipe and Fitting meet. If the solder doesn't melt, continue to heat in 15 second intervals until the joint is hot enough to melt the solder. Apply solder around the entire joint, and "cap off" the seal. Wipe the area clean and wait for it to cool.

When connecting the two threaded fittings, wrap the copper fitting in Teflon tape 2-3 times and make sure that they are completely covered. Tighten the joint fully using a Pipe wrench and the joint is now sealed.

See how to properly solder a copper pipe in the video below.