What would you do when it comes to plumbing - Survey says?

[deejayburnout]

Peeps

I have 2 queries??

1. Gas soldering / brazing. Some people just use flux with the torch, relying on the solder in the fitting to do the work. Others use flux and some extra solder.

What would you do?

Me - I Just use the solder in the fittings.

2. Compression Fittings. Some use boss white with them a standard, some only use boss white if they are having issues

What would you do?

Me - Boss white if there is a leak.

Just wondering.

[Funkstar]

I've always used one of the Boss lubrications for compression fittings, my dad always said you get a better result. I have tried without and it just doesn't feel quite right when you are tightening things up, like you might be tearing metal.

Never soldered/brazed pipework so far.

Oh, push fittings are awesome! Only used push on caps to seal heating pipes that aren't needed any more, but they are just so easy to use, well work any extra cost for simple jobs like that.

[deejayburnout]

I agree with you there about the boss white, connections do go on better but its a little messy. Read somewhere that it can set slightly over time making it hard to removed. A lot easier to use that than thread tape.

Going to do some compression fittings tomorrow so might use it on a new installation and see how I get on with it. As I said I usually use it for repairs on leaking pipes.

Use push on brass fittings before and although were watertight, just don't like the fact that they are 'loose' and can rotate. Just doesn't feel right.

BTW I am not a plumber to trade, Electrician who works in the Facilities Management sector.

[Funkstar]

I'm not a plumber either (and don't listen to anyone on here that tries to tell you otherwise!) and nor is my dad, just enthusiastic DIYers.

[deejayburnout]

Was gas soldering today at work and was let down by the compression fitting lockshield valve. Water pressure not enough to open the valve.

Gas soldering was spot on with just flux and solder. Looks tidy too.

[peterb]

Plain solder fittings for me, and compression fittings 'as is' Although if the pipe is a bit rough where the olive fits, I polish it with wire wool.

[Geoff I]

Never done Brazing for a long time it must be 39 years ago, but soldering I always use flux, and as for compression fittings a small amount of PTFE tape around the olive does the trick for me, as for Boss white I use hemp as well for screwed pipe, but I have heard that PTFE paste is the way forward.

I served my time as an Industrial Plumber, but I came out of that game 22 years ago.

[Saracen]

I don't use pre-soldered fittings. First, I'm too tight to pay the premium. Second, I find it far easier with flux and solder.

BUT .... I do tend to buy decent bits. My local trade plumbing supplies place sells to consumers (i.e. like me) but sells decent components. They're more expensive than some of the cheap stuff, and I don't know why but I have FAR less problem getting a full seal.

Other than that, flux, get the temperature right, gently solder and watch it flow neatly round and into the joint. Job done. It does take a bit of practice, though.

As for compression, like many others, a little bit of PTFE tape on the olive, but I do mean a little bit.

[Guy]

I'm not a plumber either (and don't listen to anyone on here that tries to tell you otherwise!)

I'm sure I still have those pictures that prove otherwise...

[mepooooo]

First question - use flux with the torch, relying on the solder in the fitting to do the work
Second question - only use boss white if I have issues.

I have to say that i am not plumber so i don't guarantee that this is the better method but it works in my oppinion.