How to Use a Union or Coupling to Make a Plumbing Repair

Couplings and Unions: What Are They?

A pipe coupling is a straight fitting with inlets appropriate for the type of pipe for which you use it. A slip joint on a plastic or copper coupling usually fits over the pipe and is glued (plastic), soldered (copper), or compressed. Female threads on galvanized metal pipe couplings and some plastic couplings screw onto male threads on the ends of the pipes being joined. Unless you use a compression coupling, once you install a coupling, the connection is permanent.

A union, like a coupling, can have slip-joint or threaded ports, but the main difference is a large central nut in the middle that unscrews to separate the fitting. This is useful in a variety of situations, the most common of which is water heater connections. By installing unions on the water heater ports, you can disconnect the water heater for repair or replacement without disrupting the plumbing.

How to use a pipe coupling

Using a pipe coupling is a simple process that involves connecting two pipes or fittings together using the coupling. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Cut the pipes: Use a pipe cutter or saw to cut the two pipes that you want to connect. Make sure to remove any burrs or rough edges with a file or sandpaper.
2. Prepare the pipe ends: Use a deburring tool to smooth out the cut ends of the pipes. This will help ensure a proper fit when you connect the two pieces together.
3. Choose the right coupling: Select a coupling that matches the material and size of the pipes you are connecting. Couplings are available in a variety of materials, including PVC, copper, and stainless steel.
4. Slide the coupling onto the pipes: Take the two pieces of the coupling and slide them onto the cut ends of the pipes. Make sure the two pieces are aligned properly.
5. Tighten the coupling: Use a pipe wrench or adjustable wrench to tighten the coupling onto the pipes. Make sure it is tightened securely, but don’t overtighten it.
6. Turn the water supply back on: Once the repair is complete, turn the water supply back on and check for any leaks.

By following these steps, you can use a pipe coupling to connect two pipes or fittings together. Remember to always use the appropriate tools and follow all safety precautions when working with plumbing systems. If you’re unsure about how to make a plumbing repair, it’s best to consult a professional plumber.

How to use a pipe union

Using a pipe union is a simple process that involves connecting two pipes or fittings of different sizes together using the union. Here are the steps to follow:

1. Cut the pipes: Use a pipe cutter or saw to cut the two pipes that you want to connect. Make sure to remove any burrs or rough edges with a file or sandpaper.
2. Prepare the pipe ends: Use a deburring tool to smooth out the cut ends of the pipes. This will help ensure a proper fit when you connect the two pieces together.
3. Choose the right union: Select a union that matches the material and size of the pipes you are connecting. Unions are available in a variety of materials, including brass, PVC, and stainless steel.
4. Assemble the union: Take the two pieces of the union and assemble them together by screwing the male threaded end of one piece into the female threaded end of the other piece.
5. Slide the union onto the pipes: Slide the assembled union onto the cut ends of the pipes. Make sure the two pieces are aligned properly.
6. Tighten the union: Use a pipe wrench or adjustable wrench to tighten the union onto the pipes. Make sure it is tightened securely, but don’t overtighten it.
7. Turn the water supply back on: Once the repair is complete, turn the water supply back on and check for any leaks.

By following these steps, you can use a pipe union to connect two pipes or fittings of different sizes together. Remember to always use the appropriate tools and follow all safety precautions when working with plumbing systems. If you’re unsure about how to make a plumbing repair, it’s best to consult a professional plumber.