If you’ve used a PVC compression fitting or fitting for a quick repair, or your plumber uses one in your plumbing system, you may be wondering how reliable these fittings are. The answer is simple; compression fittings are very reliable! These fittings are a safe choice because they are leak-proof and can be used in many types of high pressure situations.

What is a compression fitting?
A compression fitting is a fitting that creates a strong connection between two pipes without the use of threads or primer and solvent cement. Most compression fittings either have a gasket end or a locking end that holds the pipe in place. You can find locking ends on Spears’ GripLoc brand compression couplings.

What Makes Compression Fittings Reliable?
Compression fittings are just like any other fitting, except they have different end types. Compression fittings are leak-proof, as are fittings attached to cement and primer. When properly installed, your compression fittings will not leak.

Compression fittings can be used in high pressure situations according to the manufacturer’s specifications. Most of our compression fittings have bodies made of Schedule 40 PVC that can withstand temperatures up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit.

Compression Fittings and Other Common Accessories
When making pipe connections, threaded fittings are sometimes used, especially if adjustments to the pipe may be required. While threaded connections are common and often hold well, they are also often prone to leaks. In some cases, threaded connections may be too tight or too tight, causing such leaks. Compression fittings don’t have this problem.

Socket fittings require PVC cement and primer. While these provide a secure connection, you may not have time to wait for the PVC cement to cure. You may also find yourself in conditions that are not dry enough to use primers and solvent-based cements at all. This is when compression fittings can shine because it doesn’t require perfect installation conditions.

Use compression fittings
While every fitting connection can make a case for its use, compression fittings are reliable and can be trusted to be used in pressure piping. They provide excellent leak protection with threaded connections. If you need a fast, reliable connection, consider using a compression fitting.