Why use Press Fit Fittings instead of Soldering?
What are the advantages of using Press Fittings over traditional soldering?
 
The choice between press fittings and soldering depends on the project's size, budget, and specific requirements.
 
 
  Press Fittings Soldering
Installation speed Significantly faster than soldering. A few seconds per press cycle. Soldering can take far longer and requires multiple steps.
Safety Pressing is a flame-free option that avoids using hot works on site. Requires using an open flame, permits are required on site. Risk of fire and burns.
Skill level Easier to learn and fewer steps to follow. Soldering is a skill that can take years to perfect.
Reliability Consistent, secure, leak-proof joints when installed correctly. 30 year warranty on some fittings.  Reliability is dependent on the skill of the installer, but is generally good if installed correctly.
Upfront cost Press Tools are an expensive outlay initially but are coming down in price. Lower, with more affordable equipment and materials.
Pipe condition Can be used on wet pipes. Requires a dry pipe system.

 How press fittings work.

 
The press-fit system uses a EPDM O ring that seals the fitting to the pipe when subjected to the pressure of the press tool.
  1. A pipe is cut to length, deburred, and a witness mark is made to ensure proper insertion depth.
  2. The pipe is inserted into the fitting, which contains a pre-lubricated sealing element, typically an EPDM O-ring.
  3. A hydraulic press tool is clamped around the fitting. Such as the MP1528 Press Tool.
  4. The press tool crimps the fitting onto the pipe, compressing the O-ring to form a secure, watertight seal.
 
Advantages of press fittings.
  • Faster installation: Press Fittings can be installed quickly with each connection taking a few seconds.
  • Increased safety: Press Fitting is a flame-free option. This is particularly popular on site as fewer permits are required for installation.
  • Reliable and consistent joints: The press tool ensures a consistent, secure seal every time, reducing the risk of human error compared to soldering.
  • Can be used on wet pipes: Press Fittings can be used on wet pipes and does not require the engineer to wait for a system to be drained.
  • Versatile applications: Press fittings are suitable for a wide range of systems, including potable water lines, heating systems, and gas distribution. 
 
Disadvantages of press fittings
  • High upfront cost: Press tools can be expensive up front. It can be unneccesary for one of jobs. But for a trade professional it is a worthwhile investment and prices have already started to come down. Our MP1528 Press Tool is competitively priced.
  • No reusability: Once a press fitting is installed, it forms a permanent connection and cannot be easily reused or adjusted. Modifying a joint requires cutting the pipe and installing a new fitting.
  • Limited access: While good for tight spaces, the press tool can sometimes be too bulky to access certain fittings. However, adjustable rotating heads and extensions are now available.
 
Common types and brands
  • Copper press fittings: Used for copper pipes in water and gas systems. Examples include the 
    Pegler Yorkshire Xpress Press Fit Equal Tee, Lawton Press Fit, Geberit Mapress and our unbranded M-Profile is a great affordable option and our best seller.
     and fittings from Conex Banninger B Press.
  • MLCP press fittings: Designed for use with PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) tubing. These are often more cost-effective and are corrosion-resistant.
  • Chrome Press Fittings - Monsterplumb sells Chrome plated brass fittings in both our M-Profile range and the Pegler Xpress range.
  • Watergas Fittings - Watergas fittings are an innovative solution that works with both GAS and water installations. WRAS approved.
  • GAS Press Fittings
  • Press tools: 
    • MP1528 - M-Press M-Profile Press Tool Kit comes with 15mm, 22mm and 28mm jaws and works with any of the M-Profile fittings listed above.
      : A cordless press tool powered by Makita 18V Li-ion batteries and 350° swivel head for access to difficult locations.