First time with 1" copper probs.

[Starcraft27]

Hi,

Newbie here. I'm adding cold water to another location and t'd into 1" main line running under the house. I have much experience with 1/2", but I"m having problems getting it plumbed up not to leak. Water is off and girlfriend isnt happy!


1. Why aren't their repair union slips for 1"? I'm currently doing repair with couplings without stops and cutting 1" pipe close to fit and slipping the couplings over.

2. Could it be my cheap torch? Just a basic blue Benzomatic. It doesn't seem to be getting hot enough. My shutoff isnt perfect but the white bread trick has worked for me in the past and I dont think this is the problem

3. Anybody used this Lenox water soluble flux? It seems to work horrible and maybe this is the culprit. Its a white translucent gel. Just found a horrible review on it from Lowes.

Shop LENOX 1.7oz Premium Water Soluble Flux at Lowes.com

Thanks, any help greatly appreciated.

 

[Caduceus]

If you are connecting to 1" soft copper you may want to try a mechanical coupling. Flare is preferred, but compression is available. If it is 1" hard copper a compression coupling will still work, but the success of any connection depends on the installer.
The problems you are having could be related to steaming moisture/water in the pipe, pipe and fittings not being clean enough or not heating properly.
Slip couplings for 1" are readily available at plumbing supply houses, but not always at big-box stores.
If you are in over your head there is no shame in calling a pro.

 

[Starcraft27]

It is all hard copper. I am using slip couplings, I was asking about 1" repair unions that are cut to size. I will be attempting again today with new flux and new fittings. Problem is not cleanliness, but could be steam in line. Let you know what turns out.

Thanks

 

[Starcraft27]

So I got her done after switching to a different flux. After researching about Lenox water soluble flux and only hearing negative things as well as my recent experience with it I hope people read this and don't use it. The regular grayish paste flux worked great.

Caduceus I appreciate the input, but the reason I would be coming to a plumbing forum is because I"m doing it myself. I hope to add input/experience in future as well as have help available..

Thanks.

 

[Caduceus]

My apologies, Charvet7. My intention to suggest a pro was not meant to offend. When reading your text I assumed it was a DIY project as some of our visitors are not tradesman and get in over their head with certain tasks. Look forward to reading more from you in the future.
SWM

 

[havasu]

Charvet7, where the heck is Orinda? Isn't that over near Chino Hills?

Duh, I forgot about utilizing Google. You are way up near Oakland. Greeting from So Cal!