In today’s plumbing, there are several options to consider. Some homes are built with lead, copper, or iron pipes. If you’re remodeling or replacing a home with new plumbing, you can use polybutylene pipes to ensure that your water stays clean. There are no known health risks associated with the use of polybutylene pipes. Read on to learn about the advantages and disadvantages of each type of pipe.

Copper

In the United States, copper piping has replaced galvanized steel in general use and is generally regarded as a safe medium for water. Copper in drinking water adds approximately four to 45 percent more copper to a person’s diet. While the body excretes half of copper, it is also distributed widely throughout tissues. It accumulates in the kidneys and liver. Despite these health benefits, copper is still not a preferred pipe material for drinking water.

The metal occurs naturally in the earth’s crust and is used in many products. It can enter water sources through household plumbing. While copper is required by law for drinking water pipes, a small amount of copper can end up in drinking water. While copper is beneficial to the body, too much can be toxic. Copper is also used in making electronic components. The National Plumbing Code of Canada considers copper to be safe for drinking water pipes, fittings, and plumbing systems.

Stainless steel

Stainless steel pipes are the safest type of piping available today. Stainless steel is composed of at least 65% recycled content and can be disposed of without contributing harmful contaminants to the environment. Unlike other materials, stainless steel doesn’t corrode, is non-toxic, and can be recycled 100% of the time. In addition, stainless steel is an environmentally friendly option because it does not contribute to pollution and reduces emissions.

Stainless steel pipe is made of high-quality material that is corrosion-resistant and ductile. Stainless steel is also easy to bend and cut, and it complies with drinking water hygiene standards. Stainless steel pipes are easier to install and last up to fifty years, making them a more environmentally friendly choice for drinking water systems. Copper and plastic pipes can be corroded, but stainless steel pipes are more resistant to corrosion.

PVC

When it comes to pipes, PVC is the safest choice for drinking water. Unlike copper, which can contain lead, CPVC and PEX are virtually inert. Although PVC has a high degree of toxicity, it is still considered the safest type of pipe for drinking water. PVC pipe is used in most homes because it is cheap and easily available.

The benefits of PVC pipe for drinking water use are numerous. Its longevity means that it has survived decades of rigorous testing and approval. PVC pipe exceeds all regulations and health standards required by the U.S. Safe Drinking Water Act. Its quality is continuously monitored by independent agencies. In fact, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency conducts regular tests to make sure that it remains safe.

PEX

While many homeowners assume that PEX pipes are the safest type of pipe for drinking-water systems, that’s not always the case. In fact, most water supplies in the U.S. contain some level of chlorine. Chlorine can oxidize PEX piping, causing it to fail. Here’s what you should know before installing PEX pipes in your home:

According to a study of eight brands of PEX pipes, 62 different chemicals leached from the pipe. More than half were toxic. While this may not sound like much, it’s important to note that these tests did not take into account the fittings used to secure the pipes, disinfection byproducts, and other synergistic effects. In addition, there are several reasons to use PEX pipes in your home.

CPVC

CPVC and PEX are both plastic piping systems. However, they differ greatly in their construction, performance, and chemistry. PEX is a European technology that is not inherently resistant to water treatment chemicals used in the U.S. This includes chlorine and its variants, chloramine and chlorine dioxide. PEX manufacturers have tried to improve the material, but it remains susceptible to chlorination under certain conditions.

While both PVC and CPVC are safe for drinking water, they have their drawbacks. While both PVC and PEX are cost-effective, PVC is less flexible and prone to freezing water damage. In colder climates, the water in PVC pipes may freeze and crack. This will cause unforeseen damages. On the other hand, if you’re looking to save money, PVC is the best choice.

LDPE

LDPE is the most common type of plastic water pipe. It can be processed to meet standards of high purity. Its high resistance to environmental stress cracking makes it ideal for drinking water applications. LDPE is also more robust than low and medium density polyethylene. Typical applications include water filters, countertop faucets, and under-sink water filters. LDPE tubing is made from FDA-approved materials and is NSF Standard 51 and 61 certified.

Polyethylene pressure pipe systems are a staple in the gas and water industries. Polyethylene is lightweight, flexible, and has excellent chemical resistance. This material is readily available in coils and is cost-effective. LDPE pipe is also highly durable and can withstand high temperatures. It’s easy to install and can last a long time. In addition to its low cost, LDPE pipe has great corrosion resistance and long lifespan. CanduPlumbers provides the best piping services in your area.