How to install sharkbite fittings on copper pipe. SharkBite fittings are an easy and innovative way of repairing copper pipe leaks and faults. They are straightforward to use and are an easy fix for people in a hurry.
SharkBite fittings are of different types for different types of leaks and fixes. The fact that attracts the most is that you don’t need any fancy tools; only an essential tool arsenal can get you to what you desire to achieve.
We’ve grabbed the best possible method focusing on how to install SharkBite fittings on a copper pipe for you to save your money and perform the task more straightforwardly.
How to install sharkbite fittings on copper pipe
SharkBite fittings are push-to-connect systems. They work in several steps. They are:
- The pipe is inserted in the SharkBite fitting
- The pipe passes through a release collar and grabs the ring
- The grab ring’s teeth will open out to grip the pipe in place
- The pipe is then pushed to the O-ring protector
- The line is aligned with the SharkBite fitting
- A watertight seal is created once the line crosses the O-ring and reaches the tube stop
Using the correct sized fittings
This event is the first and foremost step before the beginning of any repair. This part may seem simple, but one can not take it lightly if the wrong sized fitting you can choose for the pipe ends up too tight or too loose.
In both instances, the pipe won’t get fixed. An easy way people get confused is if the pipe’s internal diameter is different from the total diameter, and this has to be measured with care.
The nominal diameter has a chart that you can reference to get the proper fitting size for the fix.
Connecting the fittings
Before connecting the fittings, the fittings should be cleaned and checked for any damage. Now to join the fittings, the following steps are to be done.
- Cut the copper pipe such that the ends are clear and sharp. Avoid jagged ends with burrs.
- Insert copper pipe in the Suitable SharkBite Fitting
- Slightly turning the line, push the pipe in the fitting until it reaches the tube stop
Types of repairs
SharkBite fittings are used for different types of repairs. A few are:
- Corroded copper pipes (slip coupling method)
- Copper pinhole leaks
- Corroded copper pipes (coupling method)
Corroded copper pipes (Slip coupling method)
The slip coupling fitting is made for the pipes with no movement. It is similar to using two couplings, but one direct coupling is replaced with a slip coupling—cutline after measurement and insert couplings on both ends.
Coupling method
Cut off the area of the pipe which is corroded. The corroded area appears green. After the damaged area is cut off, take a new copper pipe piece and add two couplings on both sides and connect to the old pipe on both ends, respectively.
Pinhole leak
The pinhole leak is the easiest to fix. Cut the copper pipe where the pinhole leak is and buff or deburr the edges of the line so they don’t rupture the O-ring and cause a leak.
Then install the fitting and insert both sides of copper wire in the fitting.
Do you need the plastic insert for shark bite fittings
Tube liners are required when using SharkBite large-diameter fittings with copper or CPVC. Tube liners are not required when using SharkBite large-diameter fittings in conjunction with PEX, PE-RT, or HDPE.
How to use shark bite disconnect clip
Very simply, SharkBite fittings work by pushing teeth onto pipes when a plunger tool is used. This pushes a rubber gasket between pipes and creates a water-tight seal that is difficult to pull off because of specially designed metal rings.
Conclusion
Using SharkBite fittings is relatively easy and quick if the proper steps, as mentioned above, are performed correctly. The best part of these fittings is that removing the fitting is also as easy as the connection.
Now, you don’t need to hire any professional or plumber for the purpose as now you are well aware of How to install sharkbite fittings on copper pipe.
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