Types of Pipes Used for Cold Water

Many kinds of pipe are manufactured to supply water in your home. The type of pipe used is dictated by local climate conditions and local building codes. Cold water piping may be made of copper, polymer materials or a combination of metal and polymer.

cold water

Copper

Copper pipe is commonly used in all areas of the country for both cold and hot water supply. Copper pipe for residential use comes in hard (tempered) and soft (annealed) varieties. Two types of copper pipe can be used for residential cold water supply: Type M is thin-walled copper pipe in either soft or hard copper. The ¾-inch size is most commonly used to carry water from the meter to the various fixtures; ½-inch copper pipe is then connected from the ¾-inch supply line to the fixtures. Type L is a thicker copper pipe and is often used in areas where the pipe is exposed, such as outside faucets. It is available in both tempered and annealed copper. Copper pipe is extremely durable. If properly installed and insulated, it will provide the homeowner many years of service.

PVC/CPVC

Residential water pipe made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is only used for cold water supply lines. It is used outdoors for supply lines or for irrigation pipe. CPVC pipe can be used indoors for both hot and cold water supply. It is durable and fairly easy to work with. This pipe is good to use in areas with more acidic or corrosive water.

PEX

Cross-linked polyethylene, known as PEX pipe, is becoming the pipe of choice for many plumbers due to its flexibility and durability. The molecules of pex pipe are cross-linked to form a tough three-dimensional network. PEX pipe is extremely freeze and corrosion resistant, also.

Kitec

Kitec is a multiple-use pressure pipe that combines the qualities of both metal and plastic. Aluminum tubing is laminated to interior and exterior layers of plastic to provide corrosion-free and extremely durable pipe.

Building Codes

All of these pipe varieties work well for residential cold water supply. While copper is the most commonly seen, pex pipe can be found in nearly all new construction. Always remember to check your local building codes before installing or replacing pipes.

References

• Pipe Information for Pipe Replacement
• Pipe, Valves, Fittings: Copper Tubing
• Ace Hardware: Pipe, Fittings and Valves

Resources

• CPVC