The DIY thread - DIYourself

serviceguy said:
This maybe most likely the case, I am figuring out how to do it. This system is like a maze, whoever converted it to baseboard must have been high on something...
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I think I figured it out, the plumber is coming on Friday. I really don't want to mess up with this $$$ boiler/system. At least this time I/m going to be here and will make sure to take notes.
 
Anyone have recommendations for everything that I need to get started soldering copper plumbing connections? Just noticed a coupling in my basement that looks like it was part of a shipwreck and is leaking. Also want to move a few things around in my laundry room so figure I might as well learn the new skill.
 
torch flux solder wire brushes pipe cutter fittings sandpaper (emerycloth, w/e you prefer)

its not hard, but if youv never done it before take your time, proper cleaning of the joint is critical.

i have had 3 or 4 (iv lost count now) sweat unions fail in my house since i bought it in Jan 2016, all of them corroded and leaked slowly, pretty sure the guy who put them in was lazy with his prep.

If it lets go before you get yourself settled just buy a couple brass sharkbites and some PEX to do a patch job, thats what i did for the one in the wall, and it was forever better than trying to sweat btwn 100 year old 2x4s through a 10inch square hole in the wall.
 
ebarker9 said:
Anyone have recommendations for everything that I need to get started soldering copper plumbing connections? Just noticed a coupling in my basement that looks like it was part of a shipwreck and is leaking. Also want to move a few things around in my laundry room so figure I might as well learn the new skill.
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fire extinguisher
water squirt bottle
bucket (with water)
Shop towels (or old t shirt)
fireproof pad (or use wet towel and al foil)

torch with trigger start
solder
water based flux
emery cloth
wire brush (for inside pipe - easier than emery cloth - but not necessary)
pipe cutter - if you need to cut in a small space, get the small space one
pipe reamer - easier than using the one on the cutter

always wipe the area clean with a wet towel after making the joint. always.
 
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Thank you both. I will definitely be practicing on some scrap before doing the real thing. Just going to be dealing with 3/8" and 1/2" copper so I'll probably just go with the standard propane option.
 
Patrick said:
fire extinguisher
water squirt bottle
bucket (with water)
Shop towels (or old t shirt)
fireproof pad (or use wet towel and al foil)

torch with trigger start
solder
water based flux
emery cloth
wire brush (for inside pipe - easier than emery cloth - but not necessary)
pipe cutter - if you need to cut in a small space, get the small space one
pipe reamer - easier than using the one on the cutter

always wipe the area clean with a wet towel after making the joint. always.
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I use an extension hose with my torch, it makes easier to maneuver and I think it's about $15.
 
Patrick said:
me too. i need a new one, so i'll probably buy the propress. 😀
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Yep, it's the step up from the extension hose after all, everybody knows that. Have you bought the two new bikes that you earned with the ladder/pickup/garage saves, you could use one of those...I may need you to lend it to me soon as well...
 
Good resource if you're new to soldering. That site has come in handy a bunch, however they need a design refresh and some better photos.

www.familyhandyman.com

Tips for Soldering Copper Pipe

Intimidated by the thought of soldering copper pipe? We've got a collection of tips to help out at every step of the process.
www.familyhandyman.com www.familyhandyman.com
 
Dare I say PEX....when the situation and opportunity presents itself. I'm all switched over to PEX so that's how I roll @ my house. However I would understand sticking with what you have.
 
Fat Trout said:
Dare I say PEX....when the situation and opportunity presents itself. I'm all switched over to PEX so that's how I roll @ my house. However I would understand sticking with what you have.
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seriously! it is like cheating!
use a sharkbite to go from copper to pex, and away ya go!
i installed a couple of pex manifolds during my kitchen/bath/laundry/other bath project. simplified everything.
esp across the joist bays.
 
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