Pool & Spa Plumbing: Understanding Common Parts and Fittings
Need to Fix a Leak? Start Here
Need to fix a leaking, cracked or broken plumbing piece in your pool or spa? We know the terms used to describe plumbing can be super confusing!
Essential Pool & Spa Plumbing Terms Explained
What are Flex Pipes or Flex Hoses?
Flex pipe/hose is a flexible PVC pipe often used in pool and spa plumbing.
The measurement listed on our website is the inside diameter of the pipe, for example 2” flex pipe has a 2” inside diameter.
The outside of the pipe will measure a bit over 2” to accommodate the thickness of the PVC material.
What are Slip Fittings?
Slip fittings are designed to “slip” over the pipe.
A 2” slip fitting will “slip” over a pipe with a 2” inside diameter.
Slip fittings are also sometimes called sockets, these two terms are interchangeable.
What is a Spigot Fitting?
Spigot fittings are the same dimensions as flex pipe of the same size.
A 2” spigot fitting would fit inside a 2” slip fitting.
These are often used in tight spaces to join two fittings together when there isn’t enough room for a section of pipe in between.
What is an Elbow in Plumbing?
Elbows come in varying degrees, most commonly 45 or 90 degree elbows.
Elbows can be a sweep style where the bend is made gradually to allow higher water flow, or a hard elbow where the turn is abrupt.
What are Barb Fittings?
Barb fittings come in smooth or ribbed and are designed to slide inside the pipe of the same measurement.
A 3/4” barb fitting would fit inside hose with a 3/4” inside dimension.
Usually these are glued into place, or sometimes the ribbed variety are held with a clamp on the outside of the hose.
What Are Threaded Fittings?
Threaded fittings have a few different types which are not interchangeable.
Male pipe thread (MPT) can only be paired with female pipe thread (FPT) fittings.
There is also another type of thread called union or buttress thread which is used for pump and heater unions, these parts won’t work with parts labelled MPT or FPT.
Choosing the Right PVC Cement for Your Repairs
PVC cement is a quick setting glue specifically designed for use with pool and spa plumbing.
All the plumbing parts we sell are PVC and are not able to be glued with ABS (often yellow) or other types of cement as only PVC specific cement will adhere properly.
We offer the Weld-On 747 which is quick setting and ideal for wet, pressurized conditions.
Still confused or have questions about plumbing? We can help! Contact us by phone, email, or form.
