If you’re looking to undertake a plumbing project, SharkBite fittings are a popular choice for DIY enthusiasts. They are easy to use, require no special tools, and are compatible with copper, CPVC, and PEX pipes. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of installing SharkBite fittings on copper pipes, step by step.
Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials
Before you start the installation process, you need to gather all the necessary tools and materials. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:
Tools
- Pipe cutter
- Deburring tool
- SharkBite depth gauge
- Adjustable wrench
Materials
- SharkBite fittings
- Copper pipes
- Teflon tape
It’s important to ensure that you have all the necessary tools and materials before you begin the installation process. This will save you time and ensure that the installation process runs smoothly.
Once you have all the necessary tools and materials, you can begin preparing the copper pipe for installation.
Prepare the Copper Pipe
The first step in installing a SharkBite fitting on a copper pipe is to prepare the pipe. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Cut the Copper Pipe
Using a pipe cutter, cut the copper pipe to the required length. Ensure that the cut is straight and free of burrs.
Step 2: Deburr the Cut End
Using a deburring tool, remove any burrs from the cut end of the copper pipe. Deburring ensures that the SharkBite fitting fits snugly onto the pipe.
Step 3: Measure the Depth
Using a SharkBite depth gauge, measure the depth to which the SharkBite fitting needs to be inserted onto the copper pipe. The depth gauge ensures that the fitting is inserted to the correct depth.
Step 4: Clean the Pipe
Using a clean cloth, clean the outside of the copper pipe to remove any dirt or debris. It’s important to ensure that the pipe is clean before fitting the SharkBite fitting. This prevents any dirt or debris from getting trapped inside the fitting, which can cause leaks.
Follow these steps to prepare the copper pipe for installation. Once you’ve prepared the copper pipe, you can move on to the next step, which is installing the SharkBite fitting.
Prepare the Copper Pipe
Preparing the copper pipe is a crucial step in the installation process. Follow these steps to ensure that the copper pipe is ready for the SharkBite fitting:
Step 1: Cut the Copper Pipe
Using a pipe cutter, cut the copper pipe to the required length. Ensure that the cut is straight and free of burrs.
Step 2: Deburr the Cut End
Using a deburring tool, remove any burrs from the cut end of the copper pipe. Burrs can prevent the SharkBite fitting from sitting correctly on the pipe, so it’s essential to remove them.
Step 3: Measure the Depth
Using a SharkBite depth gauge, measure the depth to which the SharkBite fitting needs to be inserted onto the copper pipe. The depth gauge ensures that the fitting is inserted to the correct depth.
Step 4: Clean the Pipe
Using a clean cloth, clean the outside of the copper pipe to remove any dirt or debris. It’s important to ensure that the pipe is clean before fitting the SharkBite fitting. This prevents any dirt or debris from getting trapped inside the fitting, which can cause leaks.
By following these steps, you can ensure that the copper pipe is ready for the SharkBite fitting.
Install the SharkBite Fitting
Now that you’ve prepared the copper pipe, it’s time to install the SharkBite fitting. Follow these steps:
Step 1: Lubricate the Fitting
Apply a small amount of plumbing lubricant to the inside of the SharkBite fitting. This helps to ensure that the fitting slides smoothly onto the copper pipe.
Step 2: Insert the Fitting
Insert the SharkBite fitting onto the copper pipe, ensuring that it is pushed all the way in until it reaches the depth mark on the pipe.
Step 3: Check the Alignment
Check the alignment of the SharkBite fitting to ensure that it is properly aligned with the other pipes. If necessary, adjust the fitting to ensure that it is in the correct position.
Step 4: Secure the Fitting
Using an adjustable wrench, tighten the SharkBite fitting onto the copper pipe. Ensure that you don’t overtighten the fitting, as this can cause damage to the pipe.
By following these steps, you can ensure that the SharkBite fitting is properly installed onto the copper pipe. It’s crucial to ensure that the fitting is properly aligned and seated to prevent any leaks from occurring.
Test the Installation
Once you’ve installed the SharkBite fitting onto the copper pipe, it’s important to test the installation to ensure that there are no leaks. Here’s how to pressure test the installation:
Step 1: Close the Valves
Close all the valves that supply water to the SharkBite fitting. This ensures that no water flows into the fitting during the pressure test.
Step 2: Attach the Pressure Gauge
Attach a pressure gauge to the SharkBite fitting. The pressure gauge will measure the pressure inside the pipe.
Step 3: Increase the Pressure
Gradually increase the pressure inside the pipe to the recommended pressure for your plumbing system. Check the pressure gauge to ensure that the pressure is within the recommended range.
Step 4: Check for Leaks
Check the SharkBite fitting and surrounding pipes for any leaks. If you notice any leaks, tighten the fitting with an adjustable wrench until the leak stops.
Step 5: Release the Pressure
Once you’re satisfied that there are no leaks, release the pressure from the pipe. Open the valves that supply water to the SharkBite fitting and check that the water flows through the pipes without any leaks.
Testing the installation is an important step that ensures that the SharkBite fitting is installed correctly and that there are no leaks in the plumbing system.
Conclusion
Installing SharkBite fittings on copper pipes is a straightforward process that requires minimal tools and materials. To recap, here’s a summary of the steps involved:
- Gather the necessary tools and materials.
- Prepare the copper pipe.
- Install the SharkBite fitting.
- Check the alignment of the SharkBite fitting.
- Test the installation for leaks.
By following these steps, you can successfully install SharkBite fittings on copper pipes. Remember to always test the installation for leaks to ensure that your plumbing system functions properly.
One final tip is to always use Teflon tape when installing SharkBite fittings. This ensures a tight seal and prevents leaks. With these tips, you can confidently install SharkBite fittings on copper pipes and tackle any plumbing project with ease.