Ten Most Frequently Asked Questions
- Do I need to use a pipe insert every time I connect Speedfit Pipe to a fitting?
You should always use a pipe insert when you connect Speedfit Pipe. Inserts help ensure that the shape of the pipe is kept circular, making for a better seal between the outside diameter of the pipe and the ‘O’ ring. They also make the pipe more rigid, helping to prevent ‘weeping’ past the ‘O’ ring if a side load is applied.
There are 2 types of insert for use with Speedfit Pipe.
The Superseal ‘STS’ Insert has it’s own ‘O’ ring which gives a secondary seal against the bore of the fitting.
The Standard ‘TSM’ Insert has a plain shoulder allowing a greater length of pipe into the fitting.
Use of the Standard Insert is recommended when connecting Speedfit Pipe to a compression fitting, see Question 4 below.
- Is it possible to connect Speedfit with other makes of push fit plumbing?
We would always recommend you use Speedfit Fittings with Speedfit Pipe. Other pipe and fittings that have been manufactured to BS7291 can be used with Speedfit products. If using other brands of pipe, ensure you use the correct pipe insert for that brand.
Speedfit fittings can also be used with copper pipe.
- Can Speedfit Pipe be buried in the floor screed?
The Building Regulations state that pipe laid in screed must be removable. Speedfit provide a conduit pipe through which the Speedfit Pipe can be laid. If the Speedfit Pipe needs to be replaced, it can be disconnected at each end of the conduit and then pulled out.
The installation of fittings in screed should be avoided. Where it is deemed necessary, they should be installed in an access box with a removable lid.
Conduit pipe is supplied with an outside diameter of 24mm for use with 15mm pipe and an outside diameter of 30mm for use with 22mm pipe. Both sizes are available in lengths of 25 metres or 50 metres.
- Can I connect Speedfit Pipe directly in to a compression fitting?
Not all compression fittings are suitable for connection to plastic pipe. Compression fittings with a short pipe stop depth or hard olives should not be used with plastic pipe.
Use a ‘TSM’ Insert described in answer 1. This will enable the pipe to withstand the compressive pressure of the olive. Push the pipe with the insert up to the pipe stop within the fitting. The olive must be located along the length of pipe supported by the pipe insert. Hand tighten the compression nut then tighten the nut with a spanner approx one more turn. Softer copper olives are preferable to brass olives.
- Can I connect Speedfit Pipe and Fittings directly to a central heating boiler?
No. Although most modern boilers have a high limit thermostat, residual heat can be conducted by the heat exchanger. Unless the boiler manufacturer states otherwise, a minimum of 1 metre run of pipe from the boiler casing should be copper. This recommendation includes the cold water mains supply to a combi boiler.
Speedfit Products should not be fitted to a back boiler or other uncontrolled heat source.
- Do I need to insulate a Speedfit Plumbing System?
The insulation requirements for Speedfit are the same as for copper. Therefore, if there is a danger of freezing or excessive heatloss the system should be insulated.
- Do I need to protect a Speedfit System when soldering?
Yes, keep flame or soldering tools away from Speedfit Products and do not allow flux or flux runs to come into contact with Speedfit Fittings. 450mm is the minimum distance to make a solder connection on copper pipe inserted into a Speedfit Fitting.
- What are the maximum and minimum service temperatures for Speedfit Pipe and Fittings?
For Speedfit Pipe and those fittings suitable for central heating, the maximum working temperature is 92˚C. The products will withstand up to 114˚C intermittently for short periods if there is a boiler or heater malfunction.
Products such as flexi hoses, stop valves and washing machine taps that have been designed for plumbing rather than heating situations are suitable for a maximum 65˚C.
The minimum working temperature is 0˚C providing the water in the system does not freeze. If there is a danger of freezing the pipe should be insulated.
- Can I connect chromium plated copper pipe to a Speedfit Fitting?
Chromium plate is too hard for the fitting’s stainless steel teeth to provide a good grip. Therefore the chrome finish needs to be removed from the length of pipe to be inserted into the fitting. To ensure maximum grip, the fitting of a collet clip is recommended.
Speedfit Fittings should not be used with stainless steel pipe.
- I want to put an inhibitor treatment into my Speedfit central heating system, is this OK?
System cleaning and chemical protection are an important part of the installation of a central heating system. For advice on the use of additives and inhibitors consult the manufacturer or contact the Speedfit Technical Help Line on 01895 425333.
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