DIY Frequently Asked Questions / Copper Pipe')">
Rigid copper pipe is good for new installation. Soft or flexible copper pipe is good for repair work since it can bend around obstacles without multiple cuts and joints.
Type K is heaviest, used in municipal, commercial, residential and underground installation; Type L is medium weight and is the most commonly used in residential water lines; Type M is hard and thin.
Recommended for light domestic water lines and not permitted in some city codes or for underground use.
Common sizes are 3/8”, 1/2 and 3/4”.
Refrigeration tube has moisture removed and ends sealed for better performance of refrigerants. Often used in heater connections but may corrode. For heater connections, use flexible brass or aluminum.
Larger sizes also used for DWV (drain-waste-vent) applications.