Plastic push-fit plumbing fittings myths

Push fit plumbing with man under sink

With the rise of the plastic push-fit plumbing fittings, many myths have surfaced over the years about their quality and performance. In this blog post, we find out why you shouldn’t always believe what you hear when it comes to the plumbing device.

Four myths you shouldn’t believe about plastic push-fit plumbing fittings

We all know the benefits of push-fit fittings: they’re quick and easy to install and don’t require any tools to assemble. However, some industry professionals are still unsure about using them and believe they remove the skill from the trade. We’ve set out to challenge these myths and prove that push-fits are a great option for installers.

Myth 1: Soldering pipes is a true skill and using push-fits devalues the trade

Although simple to install, the technology behind the push-fit system is actually extremely innovative. Their ability to twist & lock® into position and provide high pressure performance makes them an invaluable piece of technology for installers to have in their armour. There’s no denying that soldering is a skill that installers can and should have pride in, but push-fit fittings also hold an important role in today’s industry evolving.

Myth 2: Plastic push-fit fittings are only compatible with plastic pipes

Not at all. Push-fit fittings are designed to lock any two pipes together and the material of the two pipes doesn’t even have to be the same, so it’s just as compatible with copper as it is with plastic.

Myth 3: Plastic doesn’t last

This is only the case for poor quality devices. Products that have been approved by the British Standards Institute, British Board of Agrément, or the Water Regulations Advisory Scheme (WRAS) will have a high level of quality and durability. By checking if all components are manufactured in the UK, which is the case for the JG Speedfit push-fit fittings, you can be sure that the product has been rigorously tested to meet high British and international standards.

Myth 4: Where’s the skill involved?

Using push-fit fittings doesn’t remove the skill of being a plumber at all, which has many other job requirements that shouldn’t be underestimated or forgotten. In fact, arguably the most important skill for a professional plumber to have is the ability to use the most suitable system for the application, adding value to the end user by providing the most reliable, safe, and efficient service possible. So by using a push-fit fitting, you’re not losing a skill, just utilising another.

And the art of plumbing remains intact?

It does indeed. As with any industry, new technology and changes always come along, and while it’s good to do your research, you shouldn’t ignore pioneering products that could add real value to the customer and your bottom line.

Lee Halstead Headshot

Lee Halstead

Technical Sales Engineer - JG Speedfit/Reliance/SharkBite & JG Underfloor

About the author

As a seasoned professional in plumbing and heating, having earned City and Guilds Plumbing Craft and Advanced Craft certifications in 1991, I have dedicated myself to mastering the craft.

For over two decades, I operated as a self-employed plumbing and heating engineer, serving both residential and new build sectors.

In 2015, I transitioned into the role of a Technical Sales Engineer with RWC. In this capacity, I have leveraged my extensive field experience and technical knowledge to provide invaluable support and build strong relationships with customers. As a spokesperson for RWC, I am thrilled to share my expertise and promote the cutting-edge products and services we offer in the plumbing and heating industry.