Initialism for “Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride,” CPVC is one of the most commonly used materials in all sorts of commercial and residential applications involving plumbing. Unlike normal PVC pipe, CPVC can actually handle a much higher temperature. This makes this sort of pipe absolutely ideal for hot water applications. The increased capacity to handle heat also means that different sorts of joint and adhesive compounds can be used to help prevent leaks. This means that CPVC can end up lasting longer. Though this is only true for quality CPVC pipe fittings. It’s important to find quality, and here’s why.
Some Cut Corners
Some companies are going to cut corners. Unfortunately, there is no standard that’s set in stone for CPVC. As long as companies are making the pipes out of the same material, no one’s really around to check on the quality and the integrity, so you could end up with pipe fittings that are just weaker and will ultimately end up failing. This is why it’s so important to go with quality.
Longevity
Plumbing eventually has to be replaced. That’s just the way it goes. Water constantly flowing through pipes is an extremely eroding force, and even the toughest pipes and joints eventually fail, even the best CPVC pipe fittings. However, if you do opt for the best in quality, then your plumbing is going to last for many years longer than by going with the cheaper, weaker stuff.
