Common Pipe Types & Applications

Overview

Quick-reference guide to pipe types used in Spartan's work. Includes real field notes from the Spartan team on when to use each type and what to watch out for.

Who This Applies To

All Spartan technicians.

Pipe Type Reference

Copper (Type L / Type M)

• Use for: Water supply lines (hot and cold), water heater connections, gas lines (where applicable)
• Joining methods: Sweat solder, press fittings (ProPress), push-fit (SharkBite — see restrictions)
• Field note: "1/2" OD copper (outside diameter) is smaller than standard 1/2" nominal copper. Use a 5/8 compression x 1/2" female adapter, then transition to PEX." (Slack)
• Strapping: Every 6 feet horizontal, every 10 feet vertical

PEX (Cross-linked Polyethylene)

• Use for: Water supply lines, repiping, most supply applications
• Joining methods: Crimp (copper rings), clamp (Oetiker), press — DO NOT use open flame on PEX
• Critical restrictions:

- Never connect PEX directly to gas water heaters — will melt. Always use copper stub-out first.

- No PEX near UV lights (water treatment systems) — degrades rapidly

- SharkBite push-fit fittings in concealed locations require Operations Manager approval

• Brass PEX fittings: Watch for dezincification in high-chloramine water (Dayton market) — brass fittings may prematurely deteriorate and prompt a repipe recommendation
• Strapping: Every 32 inches horizontal

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

• Use for: Drain, waste, and vent (DWV); sewer lines (SDR-35 for underground)
• Joining: Primer + cement; no flame
• Do not use: For supply lines (pressure applications)
• Strapping: Every 4 feet horizontal
• Code note: 1/4" per foot slope required on all drain lines

CPVC (Chlorinated PVC)

• Use for: Hot and cold supply lines (older installs); water heater connections
• Field note: "After completing the job, a team member reminded the tech to strap the CPVC to the wall — addressing a customer concern." Always secure CPVC; it is more brittle than PEX.
• Strapping: Every 4 feet (same as PVC)

ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene)

• Use for: DWV in older homes; Spartan does not typically install new ABS
• Joining: ABS cement (no primer needed, unlike PVC)
• Repair: Can connect to PVC with Fernco (rubber coupling) transition

Cast Iron

• Use for: Older homes; DWV and sewer
• Cutting: Snap cutter for clean cuts
• Connection to plastic: No-hub couplings (Fernco strong backs)
• Terminology note: "Fernco vs. strong backs" — both terms used internally. A strong back is a no-hub coupling with a metal band.

CSST (Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing)

• Use for: Gas distribution inside structures
• Critical: Must be properly bonded (grounded) per code — bonding is required at each appliance and at the distribution point

Spartan Material Standards

• Only Spartan-approved materials used on all jobs — see Operations Manager for current approved list
• Recommend converting older systems to PEX during repipe work
• No galvanized pipe for new installations

Related SOPs

• Ohio Plumbing Code Essentials
• Water Heater Specifications Guide
• Repiping Procedures (Phase 2)
• Soldering & Flux Safety (Phase 1)