How to Solder Copper Piping

Connecting copper piping is an essential plumbing technique as well as a handy thing to know for random jobs around the house. Soldering copper pipe is an easy job that requires very few tools to complete. Follow these essential steps to prevent the pipe connection from leaking.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Propane torch
• Lead-free solder
• Rag

Pipe Preparation

1. Cut your piping to the correct lengths using a copper tube cutter or hacksaw.

2. Try fitting the pipe into the coupling to be sure it fits easily and has not been squashed when you cut it.

3. Use emery cloth to clean the end of the pipe and the inside of the coupling.

4. Apply soldering flux using a flux brush inside the fitting where the pipe will be connected. Also apply it to the end of the pipe you just cleaned with emery cloth.

Soldering the Pipe

5. Slide the copper pipe ends into the coupling.

6. Heat the coupling with a propane torch for about 10 seconds. Rotate the heat around the whole coupling to heat it evenly.

7. Touch the solder around the whole seam starting at the top and wrapping around it. The solder will "pull" into the seam and you should apply solder fully until a drop drips from the bottom of the connection.

8. Wipe the excess solder away with a damp rag.

9. Test the connection to be sure it is not leaking. If there is a leak remove all the water from the line, reapply solder and then retest.

Tips & Warnings

• Use the tip of the inside flame from your torch for the highest heat level.
• When you connect multiple pipes to the same coupling you should connect them all at the same time because it is easier and you will not risk damaging the other joints when you heat it a second time.
• Don't burn yourself by touching the heated pipe.

[dja21149]

on 12/25/2007 Very useful article mate thanks.
Especially the tips at the end, re mulitiple joints and ensuring you don't touch the cleaned surfaces.