Useful tips that can have you soldering pipe like a Pro! I also show easy methods of connecting pipe without soldering. Learn how to check yourself, so you can practice before starting a job!
I soldered about 30 fittings over the past year after not soldering for many years. Everything was great until in a new install in a utility structure I got a tiny leak. I took the pipe out and saw the solder did not flow all the way around the joint. Not quite sure why but I became more disciplined and careful as a result. Really enjoyed the way your video tackles the subject even the magic marker for the shark bite connection. I wondered about that and I see for sure it is a good way to know the pipe is in all the way when you are in a situation in a wall with limited access. Thanks!
Hi Paul, best video I've see in a long time. U gave me the confidence to change out my water heater along with soldering all the copper fittings. Cheers to you 👍. Ty. Jeff
I've always been told to refrain from putting flux on the inside of the pipe ( 4:57 ). When you slide the two sections together some of the flux from the inside of the pipe will end up being pushed into the pipe potentially contaminating the inside of the copper pipe and your water supply. Putting flux on the outside portion of the pipe is sufficient. Excess flux on that outer section will be pushed out and not into the pipe. Great tutorial. Id just avoid putting flux on the inside section if it were me.
Like you said, I followed your instructions and didnt have a problem. Couldn't believe it on first try because I had 3 spots to solder and not one of them leaked! I think it was your tips on good cleaning and flux methods. Thank you. Subscribed.
First, I never knew that they also used those battery terminal cleaners as pipe cleaners for sweating, but it makes perfect sense the way they are built why not market them for both jobs. Also I love the tip for the top and bottom pipe cutter. I'd never thought of that and have had that issue in the past where I ended up using a hack saw blade with duct tape on it as a handle to cut my pipe. Seriously you have some really awesome tips for guys that don't do this on a daily basis but might need to get a job done.
Yours was the best yet. I was trying to heat all sides of the copper pipe and solder all sides. Your joints looked 100% perfect. I tried MAP gas and propane. I know the pros use MAP, but for beginners it takes a little skill because I have burned the pipe and the flux and my joints sucked and I to redo!! :)
Hi thanks for this great video glad I found this I am having trouble with soldering today followed your instructions again think I am using solder that's to old and checked it looks as though this roll has lead so its a no go does not work right will be buying all fresh stuff now and get some practice in first have seen from this vid my mistakes very grate full great job ! bob UK.
Thanks, Paul. This was helpful in the process. Would you mind listing all of the tools in the video descriptions? It's hard for me to hear some of the items you mention from the video background noise. I appreciate you, brother.
Hey Paul, Good video. I like your safety options, However, I currently make a little device called the "Solder Snake", the first hands free reflective heat shield on the market. Takes the torches energy and reflects it to the backside of the pipe, good for up to 2 in. Clamps onto any 2x4, tile, pipe or drywall.
@Paul Ricalde, few fast and simple questions for my better understanding please.1).To get the solder to go all the way around nice I see you heat one side.As you do, you place the solder on other side and go up and down just a little.You do not go uptop or clear bottom.So, put the solder on one side and slide up down just a tad.That will wrap the solder clear around? 2).Water tank, top hot, cold inlet.Course they have some copper pipe above inlets.Can I shark bite each of those where pipe ends and on other end put house cold, hot pipes on other end of shark bite? Moreso, guess I am curious if that will hold and is safe and sturdy so to speak.Use of shark bite on hot, cold water tank inlets etc....... 3).For reuse of fittings etc.I took as coupler off and inside is silver.I also see some silver bumps inside.Anyway, to reuse pipes or fittings how do you remove all the solder and clean? Or with fittings, you just take apart then resolder like first did....
Hi Pete, Thanks for the compliment. I try to make sure I explain the detail that people need to finish their projects successfully. I do have plans for some new videos soon. Please subscribe and hit the bell for notifications. Also check out my websitewww.paulstoolbox.com Have a great day! Paul
This is one of those subjects that seem to cause controversy between plumbers. Some say it will shrink the pipe too fast and cause it to weaken or crack the joint. If you are worried about that, you can take a dry rag and wipe it. I was taught this method over 25 years ago and I have done hundreds of joints since then. Many of them were on my personal homes as well as family and friends. I have never had a joint go bad because I wiped it with a damp cloth. This video was a repair that I did on my own home. I had a leak behind my brick wall. This is not a job that you want to do twice and I am confident that it will not leak again.I will say that you will want to clean the joint with a rag to remove the excess flux. You are not welding the joint, you are sweating it and it is done with much lower temperature. Never cool an actual weld prematurely because it will weaken the joint. I really appreciate all the input, it is always helpful to get different perspectives. Thanks! Pau
Hi ! Can I still use your method with copper cap or connector on a existing metal pipe / black color pipe that runs natural gas inside ? I mean can two different pipe material connect together ? BTW: great channel and I learned a lot from you.
Thanks Mr. Paul for producing an Outstanding Video, full of Expert knowledge, presented in a Professional manner. You've given me the knowledge and confidence to tackle a water heater removal and installation. Pred201
Glad I came across your channel. Great working man's knowledge. You ever use those full circular cutters? I've had some success with those when working with already existing pipes in the wall.
HeybPaul nice video...one thing I don't do that you don't.... map is to hot for 1/2 pipe...I use propane. Otherwise your tutorial is great. Thanks my friend...your thoughts please Paul
Hi Keith, I really appreciate your input and it is well received. I was shown this by an old plumber when I was young and it worked for me on many jobs. If you do not over heat the pipe, it will work well and save time. Especially outdoors in cold windy weather. I should have mentioned that it burns hotter than propane and it could cause warping of the pipe if it is not properly done. Thanks for watching and for your input. I am happy to give my viewers useful options such as yours. Thanks! Paul
paull, question. I see that you are only soldering on one side of the tube and not 360 degrees. is that because the melted silver thing will automatically slide and cover the whole area?
+Air Handler Hi Air Handler, I am showing 3 ways that I know work. Unfortunately I am not up to speed with using glue, but I have a few friends that are licensed plumbers. I will ask if they know anything about it and I will post what I find. Personally, my favorite method is sweating the pipe. I just responded to a call on the Fire Department and the homeowner had a new water heater installed in his attic. The lines were braided quick connect screw on hoses. One of the lines ruptured, causing water to flow on the ceiling and in the smoke detectors. The alarm went off and we were called out. Luckily, we were able to locate the problem quickly and he did not sustain too much water damage. I have used these braided lines myself, because it make your job much easier. This is just one of those things that happens once in a blue moon, but I believe that it is more likely to happen if you decide not to use the conventional way. Thanks! Paul
Hi air Handler, I haven't had a chance to talk to my plumber friends but I did read up on the glue for copper. personally I would stay away from it, but I will let you know when I get feedback. Thanks! Paul
+Air Handler Hi Air Handler, I spoke to a licensed plumber friend of mine and I asked for his opinion on copper glue. He advised to stay clear of it. He has gone behind countless people who used it and had leaks. He said it is ok for a temporary fix , but never for a permanent job. I have used shark bit fittings when I don't have much room, but I usually sweat my pipe. It has never failed me yet! Thanks! Paul
Hey Al, MAPP/oxygen flame is still highly desirable, having higher flame temperatures and energy densities than any flame other than acetylene/oxygen, but without the dangers and inconveniences of acetylene/oxygen. Jewellers, glassbead makers, and many others find it very useful. Plumbers, refrigeration and HVAC engineers and other tradesmen also value the high heat capacity of the MAPP/air flame; MAPP was until recently widely used, supplied in small to medium size containers.
Geodelite Kurt I didn't disrespect anyone, I simply posted facts that back up my video. If someone tells the rest of my viewers something that is incorrect, I have an obligation to provide the correct information. I figured this would be the best way to get my point across without giving my own opinion.You can go to the manufacturer and find the same information. You should look at both sides before judging.