ABS however is not suitable for use on a pool system as ABS is reactive to chlorine, and also ABS is not pressure rated. Since your pool system operates with chlorine, and at pressures up to 30 PSI, ABS is a very poor and short sighted choice for pool plumbing. A failure is inevitable.
Full Answer
Can you use ABS pipe for a pool?
ABS is never used for pools in the US, but it is very common to use ABS to plumb pools in Canada. You shouldn't have any problems.
Can I use ABS instead of PVC?
Strengths & Weaknesses of Plastic Pipes For example, PVC is more flexible, but ABS is stronger and more shock resistant. ABS is better at handling severely cold temperatures, but it can warp with exposure to direct sunlight. PVC is thought to be better at muffling the sound of running water.
What type of pipe is used for swimming pools?
PVC - Rigid PVCPVC - Rigid PVC (polyvinyl chloride) pipe is a standard for swimming pool piping, as well as many other plumbing jobs. The thickness of the wall of the pipe is known as the schedule, most commonly PVC pipe is made to schedule 40 or schedule 80.
Can I use Schedule 40 PVC for pool plumbing?
Rigid PVC Pipe Schedule 40 PVC pipe is suitable for nearly all residential pool plumbing, Schedule 80 is not commonly used on pools, mainly due to its much higher cost. Schedule 80 pipe has the same outside diameter as Schedule 40, but because it's thicker, has a 6% smaller internal diameter.
Why is ABS pipe no longer used?
Because ABS is often a recycled or “regrind” plastic resin (to make it cost-competitive with PVC), it was essentially weakened. This caused instances of pipe fatigue and failure which led some areas to ban its use. Essentially, it's not as durable as once thought.
When should I use ABS pipe?
ABS pipe is best used for underground situations, where it's extremely cold, and in locations that are not exposed to direct sunlight. PVC, on the other hand, is ideal for indoor plumbing use because it's soundproof. Be sure that you check building codes before you decide which pipe to use.
Can I use flexible pipe for pool plumbing?
Is rigid or flexible PVC pipe better for inground pool plumbing? You should use only rigid PVC pipe for the plumbing in your inground swimming pool. Even though it's more difficult to install, it's much stronger than flexible PVC pipe, which isn't rated for underground use at all.
Does chlorine damage PVC pipe?
Chlorine, especially in the diluted ppm's we work with can not damage PVC.
What size should pool pipes be?
Direct Pool SuppliesThe pipe/fitting size you need to orderActual size of the pipe1/2" / 15mm21.4mm3/4" / 20mm26.8mm1" / 25mm33.5mm1.5" / 40mm48.4mm2 more rows
How long do underground pool pipes last?
The plumbing should be scheduled 40 or better PVC, and if not subject to a lot of direct sunlight should last 15 to 20 years. If it gets brittle or warps it's time to re-plumb the system. Pinhole leaks are an indicator you have waited too long.
Can you use poly pipe for pool?
Polyethylene pipe is flexible black pressure pipe that is commonly used for in-ground pool plumbing. Barbed insert fittings are used to join together sections of the poly pipe.
What pool class is PVC?
Class 12 is recommended for all Spas & Pools, especially for warm water. Note for non-plumbers: Please See This PVC Pressure Pipe Dimensions Info, as PVC Pressure Pipe uses "Nominal" names, and does not measure what it's called.
Will PVC fittings fit ABS pipe?
ABS to PVC cement is only meant to connect an ABS system to a PVC system. An example of this would be an ABS drain system inside of a home connecting to a PVC drain system just outside the building, or vice-versa. That's the only place that this cement is supposed to be used.
Can you connect white PVC to black ABS?
If you're plumbing in a new drain or vent and have to join two different kinds of plastic pipe, black ABS and white PVC, don't assume that you can simply glue them together. Most plumbing codes don't allow ABS pipe to be solvent-welded (glued) to PVC. Check with your local plumbing inspector.
What are the disadvantages of ABS plastic?
To counterbalance these advantages, some ABS plastic disadvantages do exist. Its low melting point renders it inappropriate for high-temperature applications and medical implants. It has poor solvent and fatigue resistance too and doesn't stand up so well to UV exposure and weathering unless it is properly protected.
Is PVC or ABS more durable?
ABS, however, is stronger and more durable than PVC. When it comes to noise reduction, PVC is superior to ABS. PVC is better at muffling the sound of running water. The thermoplastics experts at Preferred Plastics can help you decide which type of plastic is ideal for your application.
What is ABS Pipe?
ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) is a thermoplastic resin. This plastic material is used to make ABS pipe, which has been used since the 1960s to make drainpipes due to its shock resistance and strength.
Why is ABS Pipe Prohibited
In some areas, California for instance, ABS pipe is prohibited (illegal) to use. Because ABS is often a recycled or “regrind” plastic resin (to make it cost-competitive with PVC), it was essentially weakened. This caused instances of pipe fatigue and failure which led some areas to ban its use. Essentially, it’s not as durable as once thought.
How to Work with ABS Pipe
To cut and attach ABS pipe, you’ll need to know how to connect fittings using a miter box or tube cutter. The tools you’ll need include a tape measure, backsaw and miter box, hacksaw, or pipe (tube) cutter, deburring tool or emery cloth, and a marker (for measurements).
Final Thoughts
I hope we’ve answered the question, “What is ABS pipe?” and much more. Knowing this will help you make smarter decisions on how to repair your drain pipes and if ABS is the material that’s right for your plumbing and drain situation.
Call 1-Tom-Plumber
Don’t hesitate to contact us here or call us at 1-Tom-Plumber (1-866-758-6237) if you need help with repairing or installing ABS drain pipes.
Can you hook up a hose between two filters?
Simplest would be to just hook up hose between the two and have it have it trailing on the ground. This is how it was before, but now there is the added weight of the chlorinator 'limb' hanging off the filter port to consider.
Is PVC glue common?
PVC connections (glued) are not at all common.....it is apparent I didn't make the ones I thought I did.
Does pool plumbing fall under UPC?
Ok, that beng said, I understand that pool plumbing doesnt fall under UPC (it should, but thats a different discussion). So, IMO, if you HAD to join PVC to ABS with glue, on a system that doesnt require inspection and that doesnt fall under UPC, its more than likely you would be fine with using a universal glue.
Can you use transition cement on ABS?
For the record, there's no such thing as PVC/ABS transition cement, doesnt exist. The can might say ABS/PVC, and thats ok, its the interpretation thats wrong. That kind of multipurpose glue means that you can use it on either PVC or ABS. It's not meant to join the 2 types of plastics together, however. The proper way to join ABS to PVC is with a mechanical fitting. UPC is very clear that you cant join ABS and PVC with ANY type of glue.
Can you use ABS cement to join PVC?
Yes and no. You can join PVC and ABS parts with an appropriate cement specifically designed for that application, like the one you mentioned. But the resulting joint will not meet the pressure rating that you would really want it to meet. Very few ABS fittings are pressure rated at all, and as far as I know, no cement is suitably pressure rated for PVC to ABS joints.#N#That said, the amount of pressure you are likely to encounter in routine usage is no where near the pressure rating recommended when building pools. So chances are excellent that the joint will hold. But in unusual situations, like a completely blocked pipe getting pumped up to the maximum pressure the pump is capable of, it is quite possible that a PVC to ABS joint would fail.
Does ABS need primer?
Oh, and one last thing. PVC ALWAYS requires the use of primer. ABS doesnt need primer.
What type of plumbing is used in a pool?
These days, you will still find some pools from before the 1970s that have copper pipes, some more recent pools that use black poly pipe, but by far most current swimming pool plumbing systems use either rigid PVC or flex PVC. Most pool installers prefer rigid PVC pipe (even though it can be more difficult to install) because the disadvantages of flex PVC outweigh its ease of install.
What is the impact of piping in a pool?
As much of the piping for a swimming pool is buried underground, even a small, slow leak in your pool’s pipes can cause major damage and be costly to repair.
What is PVC pipe?
PVC - Rigid PVC (polyvinyl chloride) pipe is a standard for swimming pool piping, as well as many other plumbing jobs. The thickness of the wall of the pipe is known as the schedule, most commonly PVC pipe is made to schedule 40 or schedule 80. Some pool installers choose to use a schedule 80 PVC pipe, which is fine, but it might be a bit of overkill for the job.
Why do pool plumbers use CPVC?
However, many pool plumbers do use CPVC for the inlet and outlet ports of pool heaters to prevent pipes from melting or shrinking. It’s usually only used in that capacity because it would be cost prohibitive to plumb a whole swimming pool system with it.
How important is it to build a pool?
Still, it’s important to build your pool to last and to require as little maintenance and repair as possible. That’s why knowing about the different piping options for your pool’s plumbing is important. Hopefully, the above information will help you in building the swimming pool you want that will last for many years to come.
Can you use copper piping in a pool?
It’s usually only used in that capacity because it would be cost prohibitive to plumb a whole swimming pool system with it. Copper - Copper piping is no longer recommended for use in pool installations, but it can still be found in older pools that were installed before PVC pipe began being used.
Can a pool leak be repaired?
As much of the piping for a swimming pool is buried underground, even a small, slow leak in your pool’s pipes can cause major damage and be costly to repair. That’s why it’s important to know what the different types of pipe are, and which work the best for swimming pool piping installations.
What type of PVC pipe should I use for a pool?
Pipe material - Swimming pool pipes should be rigid PVC, potentially flex PVC (depending on who you ask), or HDPE pipe. Pretty much anything other than these examples is wrong for one reason or another. Most commonly, as seen in this video, ABS makes a suitable replacement since hardware stores carry 1.5" and 2" ABS where the schedule 40 PVC versions of these pipe sizes are less commonly found in hardware stores. ABS however is not suitable for use on a pool system as ABS is reactive to chlorine, and also ABS is not pressure rated. Since your pool system operates with chlorine, and at pressures up to 30 PSI, ABS is a very poor and short sighted choice for pool plumbing. A failure is inevitable. In addition to the ABS there are at least 6 or more different types of pipe and fitting materials being used on this system. Without a doubt the worst offender is the galvanized steel barbed union coupler that is installed on the pressure side of the system. As you can see in this video the rust has already started and will introduce metals into the pool system as well as potentially causing a blowout failure at some point in the future. If you would like more information on pipe material choices for swimming pool applications then you can read this article on pipe materials suitable for swimming pools .
How many degrees should a pipe clamp be reversed?
Of minor note would be something like how the pipe clamps are used on barbed fittings. When you use pipe clamps you should always use two and the nut should be 180 degrees reversed so that the nuts are both on opposite sides of the pipe, but the nut is facing up on both clamps.
Is building a pool a lifetime event?
Building a pool is a once in a lifetime event for most people and it is important to get the pool you want. Swimming pool financing can help you get the pool you want and make sure you have the money you need to do it right the first time. - Swimming Pool Steve. www.PoolSuppliesCanada.ca.
Is SwimmingPoolSteve.com free?
SwimmingPoolSteve.com is user-supported. In order to keep this resource about pools and spas available for free to all readers I earn commissions for purchases made through links on this page. For more information see the full disclaimer page. By using this website you are agreeing to the terms and conditions.
Can you use ABS on a pool?
ABS however is not suitable for use on a pool system as ABS is reactive to chlorine, and also ABS is not pressure rated.
Why use ABS and PVC pipes?
Plastic pipes are inexpensive, lightweight and will never corrode. They’re great at keeping hot water hot, and they don’t collect condensation from cold water as many metal pipes do.
What is ABS pipe made of?
Many of the key differences between Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS) and Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) are either minor or situational, but there’s one difference likely to stand out to many homeowners: ABS pipe is made with BPA, and PVC pipe is not. BPA, or Bisphenol A, is a chemical commonly used to harden plastic.
How to tell ABS from PVC?
Strengths & Weaknesses of Plastic Pipes. One easy way to tell ABS and PVC apart is that ABS pipes are black and PVC pipes are white. But since pipes aren’t meant to be seen, plumbers are usually more interested in other qualities. For example, PVC is more flexible, but ABS is stronger and more shock resistant. ...
What is the difference between ABS and PVC?
Working with ABS or PVC Piping. When working with these materials, the biggest difference is that the ABS pipe has a one-step process for connecting pipes, while the PVC process has two steps . ABS pipes can be bonded instantly with a block of special cement, but PVC pipe ends must first be treated with a purple primer before its cement can be ...
Which is better, ABS or PVC?
ABS is better at handling severely cold temperatures, but it can warp with exposure to direct sunlight. PVC is thought to be better at muffling the sound of running water. In most North American markets, the two types are priced similarly.
Do plastic pipes collect condensation?
They’re great at keeping hot water hot, and they don’t collect condensation from cold water as many metal pipes do. But not all plastic pipes are the same, and the two most common plastic pipe materials (ABS and PVC) have some distinct differences.
Is ABS or PVC more expensive?
For this reason, ABS can sometimes be the most cost-effective choice even when the pipes themselves are more expensive than PVC.
How many steps are needed to connect PVC and ABS pipes?
The primary difference when working with either of these types is the steps used when connecting them. PVC pipes usually involve two steps, while ABS pipes only have one step connecting process.
What is the difference between ABS and PVC?
For instance, ABS is shock-resistant and more robust, while PVC pipes are more flexible.
What is a gold star plumber?
Gold Star Plumbing & Drain offers professional water heater service, drain clearing, toilet repair and other expert plumbing services in Gilbert, Phoenix, Mesa, Chandler and the neighboring communities. Our trained, licensed and unifored Gilbert plumbers are standing by to assist with all of your residential and commercial plumbing needs, day or night. Each of our technicians enjoy serving our community to our gold standard. Our commitment to providing a Gold Star experience allows us to build long lasting relationships with our customers based on trust, quality service and fair pricing. To us, that’s what it means to be a superior Gilbert plumber.
How to join two pipes together?
Place the sleeve in position (between the two pipes ends) to join them. Then use the metal sleeve to clamp the already pre-positioned rubber sleeves in place. It is advisable to use designated coupling while joining the two pipes.
Is ABS pipe PVC or BPA?
For instance, the ABS pipes are made of B PA while P VC is not. BPA is a hardening chemical used with ABS pipes. This chemical is used in hardening many chemicals and poses no risk to human health.
Is ABS or PVC the same?
Additionally, ABS are met to handle frigid temperatures and can wrap when exposed to hot weather. On the other hand, PVC is ideal where you want to reduce the sound of flowing water. The two types are generally priced the same in most areas. However, there can be a significant difference in some areas as a result of higher shipping fees.
Can you use ABS or PVC in plumbing?
Typically you can use either ABS or PVC in your commercial and residential plumbing. However, understanding the difference between the two will help you make the right decision for your plumbing project.
Is it better to use black or white plastic pipe?
When it comes to longevity, there isn’t any reason to choose one over the other. If you install them right, either black or white plastic pipe will remain in service a lot longer than you will.
Can you use PVC and ABS pipes?
If code allows both PVC and ABS, make a pass through the plumbing aisle at your favorite home center. Even if the store carries both PVC drain pipe and black ABS, you’ll probably find that it stocks a much wider selection of fittings for one of the types. A big selection makes your plumbing life easier.
Can you join ABS black plumbing?
Unlike PVC drain pipe, which requires purple primer and cement, ABS black plumbing pipe is joined with cement only. ABS black plumbing pipe is also easier to cut and a bit more flexible. If, for any reason, you need to join one to the other during a remodeling project, don’t just cement the two together.
