Well, I just finished soldering this copper pipe that froze this winter, and a lot of people sometimes are, they think it is hard to solder copper pipe. Well, it is really not. Soldering copper pipe is simple if just got a few simple tools. The molecules of the solder and the molecules of the copper interlock, and that is what make a leak-proof joint.
Start first by taking the sandpaper and wipe the copper pipe until it is bright and shiny like a new penny. Go ahead and take a fitting brush and twist it inside of the fitting, and also dress up the edge of the fitting that is very important. Mix up your solder flux which is basically a paste, because if it sits for a while, it could actually separate, and you want to make sure that it is nice and consistent.
I like to use a little what we call a solder paste brush. Remember, you just want a little bit on the pipe and the inside of the fitting. After you have applied the flux, it is time to insert the pipe into the fittings so that we can begin to solder. It is now time to go ahead and heat up the joints so that the solder will melt.
I prefer to use soldering torches because they burn harder. But the propane torches that you typically find at the hardware stores that you may have one in your home, they work just great. Apply the torch to the copper joints and make sure that it heats up for about five or ten seconds, and you will see the flux basically boil away.
Once the joint is hot, now it is time to pull the torch away and the heat that is left in the copper pipe in a fitting should be sufficient enough to go ahead and melt the solder. You will see the solder start to flow into the joint and then actually it wrap around the complete joint. Go ahead and do it for about three or four seconds and plenty of solder have flown in to the joint.
Once you are finished, use a rag to lightly dress up the joint. The solder is hot so be careful, and wipe off any residual flux, and make the pipe nice and shiny. If you leave flux behind, it can actually corrode the pipe a few years later, and cause a leak. Victory! You had another perfect solder joint. It is really simple when you have the right tools and take your time.
I am Tim Carter of AskTheBuilder. If you want to discover more home-improvement tips, go to AskTheBuilder.com.
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