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Plumbing Tool Safety Tips

• Always pull rather than push a pipe wrench handle.
• Always wear eye protection.
• Do not use a pipe wrench to bend, lift or raise pipe.
• Do not apply excessive pressure to a pipe cutter, as this could cause the cutting wheel to break.
• Replace worn cutter wheels on pipe cutters.

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FAQ's

Q: Is there a wrench I can use that will not damage the brass, aluminum or other soft material? 
A: Yes, a strap wrench grips the pipe without teeth. 

Q: What does O.D. and I.D. mean? 
A: This refers to the diameter of a pipe. Some pipes are measured based on their outside diameter, or O.D. Others are measured by their interior diameter, or I.D. 

Q: What is the difference between soft copper tubing and hard copper tubing? 
A: Hard copper is rigid line used throughout the house. Soft copper is used where flexibility is needed, such as faucet supply lines.

Q: What is a compression fitting? 
A: This type of fitting squeezes a brass or plastic ring around copper or plastic tubing.

Q: What is a flare fitting? 
A: A connector is slipped over the end of a copper tube, which is then flared out using a special tool. The fitting can then be screwed into another fitting. 

Q: How do I cut copper tubing?
A: You can cut copper pipe with a regular hacksaw or a copper tube cutter. Although both will make a satisfactory cut, the tube cutter ensures a square cut every time.  When cutting pipe for a specific run, be sure to make allowances for the distance of pipe that fits into the fittings. Also, remember to add the extra length the fittings will give the entire run of pipe. Figure about 1/2" for each fitting.

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