Plastic and copper plumbing systems - Your questions answered

4
min read time
2021-01-06 23:00:00


Our Hep2O push-fit plastic plumbing system has many unique features, one being that it can be used in conjunction with traditional copper plumbing systems. 

We’re often asked how the two systems can work together, so we've pulled together our most frequently asked questions to help you out. 

Do you manufacture a lead to Hep2O adaptor?

No. Our suggestion would be to use a leadlock fitting (readily available in builders merchants – use our Stockist Locator to find your local branch), which is a compression fitting to connect lead pipe to copper pipe.

Can I use Hep2O in soft water areas?

Yes, unlike copper, no matter how soft (acidic) the water is it will not corrode the Hep2O pipe.

 

Are Hep2O 28mm fittings compatible with old 1" copper pipe?

No. To adapt from 1″ copper pipe to 28mm Hep 2O they need to use a 1″ to 28mm copper adaptor.

 

Can I use Hep2O fittings on soft copper?

No, this isn’t possible.

 

Can I use Hep2O on an oil boiler?

Most boilers have a control stat that limits the temperature to 82deg c and the limit stat would operate at 95-100deg c.

If the limit stat is above this level (from manufacturers' data) it probably means that the boiler has a high thermal mass and will continue to transfer heat from the heat exchanger to the water even after the boiler has ceased firing (thermal inertia).

 

What are the recommendations for lagging Hep2O?

This is exactly as it would be for copper and is dependent on the thermal conductivity in w/(mk) of the insulating material.

For example, externally for a 15mm pipe, this would be 27mm for a material with a conductivity of 0.035 or 100mm with thermal conductivity of 0.07, so refer to the insulation supplier.

 

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Is Hep2O suitable for use on a Hager cooker or Aga?

No. Due to the uncontrolled temperature, the cooker has the potential to reach excessive temperatures. Copper must be used.

 

Does Hep2O form condensation like a copper pipe?

Not to anything like the same degree.

 

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Does Hep2O require insulating?

Yes, Hep 2O should be insulated in exactly the same way and to the same thickness as copper.

 

Is there a Hep2O fitting available that goes straight onto a thermostatic radiator valve such as a Danfoss?

Hep 2O will fit directly into most TRVs and pipe support should be used as with compression fittings. You could also convert Hep 2O to something else (copper, etc.) via compression.

 

Can I convert old ¾" imperial copper to 22mm Hep2O?

Yes, simply use the HD3A/22 adaptor.

 

What do I need to adapt from old imperial ½" copper to 15mm Hep2O?

An HD1/15 – 15mm straight connector will fit onto the old imperial pipe so you can convert to 15mm Hep2O.

Can I use Hep2O to carry oil?

No, regulations state soft copper must be used for this purpose.

Can I use a 15mm Hep2O barrier pipe as a discharge pipe from a boiler safety valve?

No, this has to be copper.