Potable Water Pipe Plumbing Services for Lakeland, FL & the Surrounding Areas

Potable water plumbing systems use specific pipe materials to supply clean, safe drinking water to a building's fixtures. Key materials include copper, PEX, and certain types of plastic piping, all of which must meet health and safety standards like NSF/ANSI 61 and be certified as "lead-free."

Common Potable Water Pipe Materials

  • Copper: Widely considered one of the best and safest materials for drinking water lines, copper is durable and long-lasting. It is corrosion resistant but can be expensive and requires soldering for joints. Solder and flux used must be lead free.
  • PEX (Cross-Linked Polyethylene): PEX is a flexible, corrosion-resistant plastic tubing popular for residential use due to its lower cost and ease of installation (fewer fittings needed due to its flexibility). It resists bursting in freezing temperatures better than rigid pipes like copper. PEX comes in different types (A, B, and C), all of which are considered safe when certified for potable water use.
  • CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride): CPVC is a rigid plastic pipe suitable for both hot and cold potable water, capable of handling temperatures up to 180°F. It is off-white or cream colored and requires a specific primer and cement for connections.
  • PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride): Standard white PVC pipe, specifically Schedule 40, is typically used for cold potable water applications and drainage systems. It is not suitable for hot water or direct outdoor UV exposure unless specified otherwise, and it's generally avoided for main water distribution inside homes by some recommendations due to concerns over chemical leaching and the hazardous solvents used in joining them.

Key Considerations for Potable Water Plumbing

  • Certification: All pipes, fittings, and components in contact with drinking water must be certified by an accredited third party (like NSF International) to meet standards such as NSF/ANSI 61 and NSF/ANSI 372 to ensure they do not leach harmful substances into the water.
  • Local Codes: Always check with local building authorities, as codes may dictate which specific materials and installation methods are permitted in your area.
  • Water Chemistry: Copper is generally safe unless your water supply has a low pH (acidic), which can cause corrosion and release copper ions into the water. PEX or HDPE may be better options in such cases.
  • Temperature: Ensure the pipe material is rated for the expected water temperature. PEX and CPVC can handle hot water, while standard PVC is typically for cold water only.

Contact Us Today to Schedule an Appointment

Centerstate Plumbing Services, LLC has residents of Lakeland, FL and all of Polk County covered when it comes to potable water pipes. We offer many services, including repair and replacement, installation, maintenance, emergency services, and pipe lining. No matter what service you need, you can expect to be 100% satisfied with our work, as that is our goal. We strive for perfection with every project. Our team has more than 40 years of experience, so your potable water plumbing system is in great hands. Finally, we’re family owned and operated, so you can expect excellent customer service. Contact us today to make an appointment!