The pipes play an essential role in every plumbing project. There are different types of pipes available. Some of them share common users and have some key differences. In today’s article, we will discuss whether you can use PVC for the sewer line.
Can you use PVC for sewer line?
It is important to use the right type of pipe for plumbing and sewer works. That is why PVC pipes can be a great option because they can be used in different applications. You can use Schedule 40 PVC pipe for drains and wastewater is considered a versatile and durable option for plumbing work.
Since the importance of pipes in plumbing and other projects is important, that is why you need to choose the right type of pipe for the right type of work. This will provide you with maximum convenience and efficiency.
In addition, when you are considering a pipe for many drainage and water management applications, you need to consider some key factors that will be able to help you to provide the best performance.
For that, PVC pipes can be a great option. You can use it for indoor uses as it is soundproof and you won’t hear any noises of water flowing through the pipes. The PVC pipes have a great temperature resistance of 140 degrees Fahrenheit.
The best part of using PVC pipes is the strength and rigidity versus the lightweight design which makes them more convenient, durable, and versatile for use in any type of plumbing project.
Below is a brief discussion on the uses of Schedule 40 PVC pipe for sewage lines:
Schedule 40 white PVC pipes for the Sewage line:
The schedule 40 white PVC pipe has great versatility and durability for use in sewage lines. This pipe is ideal for above-ground applications such as vent lines and sewer lines as well.
In addition to that, these pipes are also ideal for underground applications such as direct earth burial, or encasement in concrete. Dis pipes have a longer life span which helps them to become more durable and versatile.
Pros and cons of using PVC in sewer line:
There are a lot of advantages of using PVC pipes in sewer lines, but there are some disadvantages as well. When using a PVC pipe for your plumbing project, you need to consider if they are being used in residential or commercial plumbing.
It is also important to know the differences between using different types of PVC pipes because that will help you to make the best decision of which one to use. Below is a brief discussion on the pros and cons of PVC in sewer lines.
Pros:
It is soundproof:
The benefit of using PVC pipes in silver projects is that the pipes are soundproof. That is why if you use them in underground or indoor applications, they will not cause any noise.
This keeps the PVC pipe ahead of any other pipes in the market.
Has a higher operating temperature:
The PVC pipes are best to use for their higher operating temperatures. Generally, a PVC pipe has a maximum operating temperature of 140 degrees Fahrenheit which makes them ideal to use in sewer lines.
Comes in different sizes:
The PVC pipes are available in different sizes, which makes them more convenient and efficient to use.
The size of the PVC pipe ranges from half an inch to 24 inches in size. In addition to that, the PVC pipes are available in standard 20 feet lengths.
Can be used underground:
Apart from using in indoors, the PVC pipes can also be used in underground applications.
They are a great option for direct earth burial or concrete encasement. They have a good pressure resistance that makes them durable and long-lasting than the other pipes.
They are corrosion resistant:
Unlike metal pipes, PVC pipes are corrosion resistant. They also have chemical resistance which makes them long-lasting and durable in plumbing projects.
In addition to that, you do not need to replace them so they are considered a cost-effective option as well.
Cons:
Bulkier than metal:
PVC pipes are bulkier than metal pipes. That is why they are much more difficult to fit in the smaller areas.
They can break down:
It has a chance of breakdown in lower temperatures. In most cases, the pipes can break down if they are frozen.
Environmentally unsafe:
The PVC pipes are considered environmentally unsafe because they lack copper’s antimicrobial effects which are risky for health. Many house owners do not recommend using PVC pipes for the plumbing project.
What type of PVC pipe is best for sewer line?
PVC pipes are available in different variants, such as the schedule 120, 80, and 40.
Considering that thickness, schedule 40 is ideal for above the ground applications such as vent lines and sewer lines in commercial and residential plumbing projects.
However, Schedule 40 has a thinner wall thickness than the schedule 120 and 80 pipes which makes them much more convenient and effectively efficient to use in any type of plumbing project.
You can also use PVC-U pipes, which are the most common PVC type and can be used in various applications that include drinking water, waste management, sewage, and underground drainage as well.
How long do PVC sewer lines last?
The PVC sewer lines have a longer life expectancy compared to any other pipes available in the market. VC pipes are considered an excellent option for plumbing projects in your home or commercial buildings.
As per the Water Research Foundation report, a PVC pipe has a life expectancy of 100 years. In addition to that, the report did not find any degradation after decades of operational service for the PVC pipes in underground or indoor applications.
That is why it has been considered a reliable, efficient, convenient, and most recommended option for the plumbing projects in your house.
Can you use PVC for drain pipe?
Due to the versatility of PVC pipes, you can use them in various applications. You can use the PVC pipe for drains and wastewater as well.
Like the traditional ABS pipe, PVC pipes can also be used for insulation of electrical cables, drain and waste management, and even for vent piping systems.
In most cases, PVC pipes are considered the best option for drainage due to their durable and versatile nature. Since they are available in different sizes, they are easy to use and can withstand a lot of environmental and water pressure.
What size PVC pipe is used for sewer lines?
The PVC pipes are considered a convenient and durable option for plumbing projects in your commercial or residential areas. There are a lot of benefits of using PVC pipes in plumbing projects.
The pipes are available in different sizes. That is why you can choose any type of PVC pipe to adjust with the lines.
If you consider using PVC pipes for the sewer lines, you can rely on the 4-inch diameter PVC pipe for your sewer projects. The four-inch pipes are easy to cut, a cost-effective option, and can be available in every local store.
Is PVC good for the underground? How long does it last underground?
PVC pipes are considered a great option for underground applications. They are also recommended to use in underground applications because they are durable and long-lasting.
These pipes can stand any type of environmental and water pressure. So, you can use it without any hassle.
When you consider the longevity of PVC pipes in the underground application, you need to determine some key factors before that.
Generally, a PVC pipe lasts around 100 years when used in underground applications. Depending on the usage and maintenance, the life span may vary.
What other types of pipes are used for sewer lines?
There is various type of pipes that are used for sewer lines. Before using a pipe for the sewer lines, you need to consider some key factors.
The pipe that you’re using for your plumbing projects should have a longer life span so that you don’t need to dig up every time to replace the pipes. Below is a brief discussion on a few types of pipes that are used for sewer lines:
ABS:
The black plastic pipes are an ideal choice for outside and underground applications. They can also be used for drainage and waste management.
Cast iron:
Cast iron pipes are a durable option for the sewer lines. They are made using thick metal so they do not bend easily. But there’s a chance of getting corroded often.
Orangeburg:
These pipes are also known as wood fiber conduits. There are not very available in the market.
Final Thoughts
The PVC pipes are considered an ideal choice for plumbing projects due to many factors. It is cost-effective because the PVC pipe is very easy to install and has an inexpensive shipping cost. They are available in different sizes so you can install them depending on your requirements.