Piping least likely to leach

[LadyTang2]

I understand that people have used PVC pipes for years with great success. While the advantage may be only theoretical, does anyone have thoughts as to why CPVC or UPVC might be better or worse for use in aquariums (I'm considering for pipes). I have read about leaching among other things BPA (upvc has none I think).

But I have read about both CPVC and UPVC are stronger and more chemically resistant.

So for you experts out there, which piping is the least likely to breakdown/leach? Please consider all piping types not just pvc, regardless of cost, what would you choose if you have that overkill gear mindset?

 

[Jeeperz]

PEX?

 

[JoshH]

Honestly, I wouldn't over think it myself. All types have been shown to leech something, but nothing in harmful levels. IMO just pick which type of plumbing works best for your budget and particular application and run with it.

 

[lapin]

Most public aquariums use PVC for a lot of their salt water displays.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

What do you need to connect?

There's no simple answer for "best" hobby tubing. I agree about PEX, but it's not normally used in reef type situations.

 

[LadyTang2]

What do you need to connect?

There's no simple answer for "best" hobby tubing. I agree about PEX, but it's not normally used in reef type situations.

Hi Randy, I'm simply looking for material for my new build plumbing (and maybe sump although I know that might be a different material) and was curious as to what the absolute best (most corrosion resistant/least likely to leach ect) material might be even if it's not been clearly demonstrated. If you have to pick one material for piping and were not worried about price what would you choose? And what would you choose for a sump material?

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

PEX piping that is used for drinking water, but may not be readily available in large diameters.

 

[lapin]

What would you choose for a sump material?

If I had the room and money I would get a high-density polyethylene sump.

 

[NanoDJS]

PEX breaks down when exposed to UV plus the clamps needed are made with metal toxic to our tanks so.... no beuno , I use good ol PVC its pretty non reactive and super cheap / available , also its solid and does not let light penetrate which is what you want. As far as leeching , I have ran it for 20+ years on my systems , and I am sure others have too , and never had leeching from it . Crap magnets , shoddy pumps sure but not the PVC , my 2c

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

PEX breaks down when exposed to UV plus the clamps needed are made with metal toxic to our tanks so.... no beuno , I use good ol PVC its pretty non reactive and super cheap / available , also its solid and does not let light penetrate which is what you want. As far as leeching , I have ran it for 20+ years on my systems , and I am sure others have too , and never had leeching from it . Crap magnets , shoddy pumps sure but not the PVC , my 2c

You would use plastic connectors. Home Depot sells them.

The UV thing is just not a concern. PEX is also not transparent.

 

[Randy Holmes-Farley Verified Community Expert]

Hi Randy, I'm simply looking for material for my new build plumbing (and maybe sump although I know that might be a different material) and was curious as to what the absolute best (most corrosion resistant/least likely to leach ect) material might be even if it's not been clearly demonstrated. If you have to pick one material for piping and were not worried about price what would you choose? And what would you choose for a sump material?

I use grey Brute cans for my sump. I think its a good choice.

 

[LadyTang2]

Thanks, one more question, someone had suggested CPVC. Many sites state that it has more resistant properties than PVC. Would this be a bad idea since there is more chlorine in it?