Plastic plumbing: three installer essentials

Close up of JG Speedfit Elbow with plastic and copper pipe

When you’re on the job, you need to know that the systems and solutions you’re using are going to deliver quality and efficiency every time. That’s why plastic push-fit plumbing has been on the rise in recent years, and whether you’re new to the industry or a seasoned professional, there are some plastic components that are absolutely essential for getting plumbing jobs done right.

Known for their durability, affordability and ease of use, plastic plumbing fittings and pipe contribute to long-lasting plumbing systems that promote reliability while reducing potential leak points. They can even save plumbers time and arduous labour by reducing the need for tools and hot works – all while delivering consistently high levels of quality.

Essential plastic push-fit plumbing products

When it comes to plastic plumbing, we’re proud to say that JG Speedfit leads the way. Every year in the UK, we manufacture over 100 million fittings and over 55 thousand kilometres of pipe that can be used to improve installation. Plus, with our industry-first push-fit technology, those components can make jobs quicker and easier.

While you can check out the full JG Speedfit range here to find the solution for your next project, we’re going to look at three of the leading plastic solutions available today: fittings, pipes and valves.

1. Secure longevity with plastic fittings

An essential part of any plumbing and heating system, fittings allow different sections of pipe to be connected and support the reliable and efficient flow of water. But fittings can do much more than that, which is where plastic push-fit fittings come in.

With push-fit technology reliable pipe connections can be made within seconds, plastic fittings from JG Speedfit deliver the performance and durability that modern systems demand. But that’s not all. Being made of plastic, they are resistant to corrosion – a characteristic that extends their service life and helps to reduce the risk of problems such as leaks over the long-term.

Whether you are using fittings to connect pipes under a sink, behind a bath or to install a new appliance, the Speedfit range features all the everyday essentials – from elbows and straights through to tees and couplers. In practice, that means leak-proof connections that stand the test of time.

2. Underpin performance with plastic pipes

But what use are fittings without pipes? While plastic push-fit fittings ensure secure connections, installers can rely on plastic pipes to quickly set up systems – knowing they are maximising performance and efficiency.

Whether working on hot or cold installations or central heating systems, plastic plumbing pipes – including JG Layflat and PEX Barrier Pipe – support easy installation, allowing installers to focus on delivering high-quality systems that are built on trusted components.  As well as being available in various lengths and diameters, plastic pipe is also available in coils, that are easy to store and transport. Installing flexible plastic pipe not only makes it easier to manoeuvre when cabling through joists or when trying to connect to a fixture or appliance in tight spaces, it also reduces the number of connections required as less fittings are needed for installations.

Plumber holding lengths of JG Speedfit plastic pipe

3. Manage the flow with push-fit valves

Beyond fittings and pipe, JG Speedfit offers an extended range of valves and tap connectors that feature our proven push-fit technology. As well as complementing the fittings and pipes we’ve already explored, these valves allow you to make connections to appliances and fixtures quickly and easily.

Just as you would expect with our push-fit technology, no tools are required to install push-fit valves and tap connectors, making them particularly useful when working in tight spaces – ultimately helping to remove some of the complexity from repair jobs and installations. Whether it’s tap connectors and stop valves, or service valves and check valves, JG Speedfit has everything you need to make bathroom and kitchen installations go ahead without a hitch.

Where to use plastic plumbing

With a solution for every installation, plastic push-fit plumbing continues to grow in popularity – both for new installations alongside upgrades and repairs to existing systems. More than an alternative to traditional materials like copper, plastic plumbing solutions provide a variety of benefits for professionals when undertaking projects, as well as delivering complete peace of mind for homeowners.

Whether it’s the lightweight nature of the materials, the ability to install them without the need for tools or hot works, or the versatility of plastic components to cater to the demands of all types of plumbing systems, installers are turning to plastic more and more. These characteristics support installers to deliver tangible benefits on every job.

That’s because systems that utilise plastic push-fit components can stand up to the demands of modern usage, maximising everyday performance and efficiency. More importantly, plastic plumbing and heating systems deliver on reliability – performing day after day for decades to come.

So, when it comes to carrying out work on residential or light commercial plumbing and heating systems, installers can always rely on a brand they can trust in JG Speedfit.

Discover our range

From straights, elbows and tees to ultra-flexible pipe, service valves and tap connectors, we have everything you need to complete your job in no time.

Richard Bateman Headshot

Richard Bateman

Product Marketing Manager Plumbing and Heating

About the author

A highly experienced and passionate professional, I have over 15 years' experience as a commercial and domestic plumber and hold NVQ Level 3 qualifications from City and Guilds

Since joining RWC in 2015, I began as a technical engineer, utilising my extensive knowledge to provide exceptional support. Currently, I am thrilled to be working with the marketing department as a Product Marketing Manager. 

This role allows me to combine my technical background with a keen eye for market trends, ensuring that RWC's products meet the evolving needs of the industry. With my wealth of experience and commitment to excellence, I am proud to serve as a spokesperson for RWC, sharing our innovative solutions and contributing to the growth of the plumbing and heating sector.