How do you plumb a new tap in?

Answer 1

If you're trying to tap in to an existing water line, there are three major types of pipe. Copper, plastic (cpvc, pvc, pex, etc.) and galvinized. Galvinized will require the cutting and threading of existing pipe which can be a problem if it is underground, particularly for a long time..... if this is the case - call a pro. PERIOD ( or buy a pipe treader, cutting oil and a "left / right" nipple set, some pipe wrenches and a permit). Depending on the type of plastic (if it is...) you may need to call a PRO. PVC and CPVC are pretty easy. If its PEX or another type of "non-glued" connections.... CALL A PRO, there are special tools and training needed (tools mostly) to perform these connections. Copper can be done easily with the right skill set and tools as well. Cut out a section of the "supply pipe" tp be tapped into equivalent to the "tee" that will supply the new branch, measuring from the bottom of the socket of the tee, prepare the socket of the tee and the two ends of the supply pipe according to the connection / pipe type..... Don't forget to turn off the water and drain the system... if it's a non threaded connection and it doesn't drain COMPLETELY, you'll wish you'd called a PRO. Either that or buy the tools necessarry to stop water from entering a connection while you're working on it.... Plastic PVC and CPVC - clean pipe, tee, etc of debis atc. Prime with approved primer, glue with approved glue and press fittings together with a 1/4 turn as it is engaged until set, usually 30 - 60 seconds. Make the connections and WAIT until water service is restored according to the label of the glue (silly!!). Copper - clean with abrasive cloth or tape, flux with soldering flux (applied with brush to all points of contact, sufficient but not liberal to cover entire joint) and heat joint areas with sufficient heat to draw solder into joint (this is a learned art, heating the joint from the opposite side of the point where solder is applied can be a good way to do it up to 1" pipe) be care ful to not start a fire with the torch, stupid...... that's why pros have "GL" .... general liability insurance. $3000 a year, just so if they start a fire inside the wall of your mobile home, they can replace your collection of Cuervo Bottles that were lost when the paneling caught fire.... You sure ya wanna try this? If it's tapping into a main to supply a new home being built on a lot..... CALL A PRO....; period. The city or county wouldn't let you do it anyway...