How to Disconnect a PVC Pipe
A polyvinyl chloride or PVC pipe is a convenient alternative to using copper and G.I. pipes. It is cheaper, easier to install and does not require as much time to work on. PVC pipes do not deteriorate over time and will not corrode or rust. PVC pipes are easy to use, but there are times when they have to be disconnected in order to be repaired. PVC joints are made permanent by a liquid welding process using solvent which melts the PVC. PVC joints can not be undone once the liquid welding process is completed. Learn how to disconnect PVC pipes to be able to repair them and increase your skills. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- PVC pipe cutter
- Small hand saw
- PVC coupling
- Solvent
- Sandpaper
- rag
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Instructions
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Locate the exact spot or spots where you will need to disconnect the PVC pipe. Cut the PVC pipe using a small hand saw or a pipe cutter to disconnect it, but allow at least 6 inches clearance from the nearest fitting to provide enough space for a new fitting in case you will reconnect the pipe.
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Cut off another inch from the pipe if you plan to reconnect it later in order to accommodate the additional length that will be added by a PVC coupling. The disconnected PVC pipe can be reconnected by inserting a PVC coupling between the disconnected pipes and welding the connection using a solvent.
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Smoothen the edge of the pipe after cutting it with a medium (80 to 120) grit sandpaper to remove small particles of leftover PVC. Clean any deposits that have formed inside the pipe walls using a damp rag and cleanser. The pipe is now ready to be reconnected using various fittings: PVC tee, PVC coupling, or PVC elbow. The line can also be "killed" at this point by using a PVC end cap to plug it.
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Tips & Warnings
Use a "PVC union" if you need to reconnect a pipe that will need to be disconnected and reconnected again in the future.
References
- Photo Credit coude en pvc de 90° image by Marie-Thérèse GUIHAL from Fotolia.com
