Pipes and fittings are found in every home in lots of shapes, sizes, and lengths. The good news is that there are simple ways to cut, clean, and join them without too much stress.
Cutting pipes
You can cut copper pipes with a hacksaw, but this is not ideal. A pipe cutter is better, as it gives a smooth, square edge. First, measure the length you need and mark it with a pencil. Put the cutter over the pipe, line up the wheel with your mark, then tighten the screw as you turn the tool until the pipe comes apart.
Preparing the pipe
After cutting, it is important to clean the ends. A file or the reamer on your cutter can remove sharp edges and small fragments inside the pipe. Next, clean the outside with wire wool or a deburring brush to remove paint or tarnish and create a smooth surface so the joint will seal properly.
Making the connection
There are a few ways to join copper pipes. The traditional method is soldering, which uses heat, or compression joints, which you tighten with a spanner. An easier option for beginners is plastic copper pipe connectors with push-fit joints, which are available from pipeline merchants such as https://watkinspowis.co.uk/. These have rubber rings inside that grip and seal the pipe, and they work with both copper and plastic.
Remember that push-fit joints on copper can break the electrical bonding in your plumbing, so you will need to link the copper pipes again with earth clamps and cable.
