As a plumbers’ merchant with years of experience serving trade professionals across North Wales and beyond, we understand the importance of matching the right components to the job.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the different types of plumbing fittings available, when to use them, and key factors to consider before you buy.
Understanding Fittings: The Basics
Plumbing fittings are the components used to connect pipes, control flow, and adapt different sizes or types of pipework. They come in a wide range of materials, styles and connection methods, so understanding your options is the first step in making the right choice.
Types of Plumbing Fittings:
- Compression Fittings
These use a nut and a compression ring (olive) to create a watertight seal.
Ideal for:
Domestic water systems
Situations where heat is not appropriate
Easy disassembly and maintenance
Pros: Reliable, reusable, no need for heat or solder
Cons: Slightly bulkier than other fittings; require precise tightening
- Push-Fit Fittings
Popular for their speed and ease of use, these fittings simply push onto the pipe and lock in place.
Ideal for:
Speedy installs
DIY projects or when working in tight spaces
Temporary systems or where pipework may be moved later
Pros: No tools required, quick install, compatible with plastic and copper pipes
Cons: May not be suitable for high-pressure or high-temperature applications
- Solder Ring (End Feed) Fittings
These are traditional copper fittings used with a blowtorch to solder the joint.
Ideal for:
Permanent, high-pressure systems
When working with copper pipe
Installations where aesthetics matter (cleaner finish)
Pros: Durable, compact, long-lasting
Cons: Requires skill and heat; not ideal for tight spaces or wooden surroundings
- Threaded Fittings
Often found in older systems or commercial/industrial environments. These connect via male/female threads.
Ideal for:
Gas lines, HVAC, commercial plumbing
Systems that may require disassembly
Pros: Strong, secure
Cons: Prone to corrosion if not sealed properly; harder to adjust once installed
Key Factors to Consider:
- Pipe Material Compatibility
Not all fittings are universal. Always check whether your pipes are copper, plastic (such as MDPE or PEX), or galvanised steel, and choose fittings designed for that material.
- Pressure and Temperature Ratings
Commercial hot water systems? Underfloor heating? Make sure your fittings can handle the system’s pressure and temperature requirements.
- Access and Installation Environment
Are you working in a cramped airing cupboard or on an exposed run of pipework? Choose fittings based on how much room you have to work with and whether you can apply heat safely.
- Ease of Maintenance
For systems that may need to be taken apart or modified, go for push-fit or compression fittings. For long-term installs, solder fittings might be the way to go.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right fitting isn’t just about connecting pipe A to pipe B. It’s about reliability, safety, efficiency, and professional pride. If you’re ever unsure, our trade counter team is always happy to offer advice tailored to your project, whether you’re a seasoned gas engineer or just getting started.
Pop in to our Deeside branch or visit colglo.co.uk to view our full range of fittings and accessories.
Collister & Glover — Supporting the Trade Since 1977.
