In this video, Ask This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey gives a tutorial on the types of PVC pipes and fittings.
Steps:
1. Richard explains that for drainage in the U.S., we typically use white PVC pipes (and occasionally black ABS pipes). They come in a variety of sizes, ranging from ½-inch to 5-inch.
2. Richard says the standard for joining two PVC pipes is a coupling for a straight fitting.
3. However, if angles come into play, you’ll choose from several different degrees including 22, 45, 60, and 90.
4. When fitting three pipes together, plumbers usually use a tee. Sometimes a wye fitting is needed.
5. Use a double tee to connect multiple sinks to the same drainpipe. There’s also a double wye fitting which is comparable to the double tee.
6. All of these fittings and pipes can be found at the home center or a plumbing supply store.