Safest Material for a Water Supply Line

Copper

• The majority of water supply lines within American homes and business are copper piping due to its integrity and water safety. Copper pipe is moderately difficult to install, requiring joints soldered together with a torch and solder. It requires more angles and connectors due to its rigid qualities. Copper pipe is an ideal medium for the transport of drinking water as it does not give off any pollutants and is resistant to corrosion from most water supplies. The pipe has a higher cost than its alternatives but has a long usable life.

PB

• Polybutylene piping (PB) is a plastic piping that comes in several varieties that suit different purposes. It is a common piping used for the main water supply into a home from the municipality water line or a well. It is very flexible and easily joined using epoxy or metal banded joints. PB is a safe choice for drinking water in many locales except those with a high rate of chlorine, which could cause deterioration of the joints over time, leading to failure and water damage. PB offers flexibility in installation with a wealth of joints and connectors available that install without any specialized tools.

PVC

• Commonly used in private and commercial plumbing systems, PVC pipe is an ideal cold water supply line. It is a moderately inexpensive building material that offers relatively easy installation. You can run PVC through obstacles and wall by utilizing different joint and connectors, which join using a primer and cement. PVC pipe is not recommended for hot water because it is unsafe for carrying water over 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

Warnings

• Check with the local building code department to ensure the water supply line you choose is up to code and properly installed. After the line is installed, you must flush the line for a period to rid it of all contaminants. Get a local or national water testing company to test your water yearly for any harmful impurities that could come from the water source or your water supply line.