Can You Use Fernco On A Hot Tub?
Yes! The Fernco Quick Clean Kit is a hot tub filter accessory designed to use before and after servicing the pump. The kit includes a filter cartridge, a filter head, and O-rings. Fernco adapter will not stay long-term in your hot tub or Spa. You must remove it before winter and re-install it in the spring.
All you need is:
- A hot tub. Any kind will do.
- A Fernco nozzle and hose. Fernco has a wide variety that will fit the majority of hot tubs on the market.
- Fernco fittings on your fixture and overflow pipe to accommodate the hose length. This may be different for your hot tub, so consult with product manuals for more information.
- A garden hose to connect the nozzle and a wrench to tighten your spigot.
- The Fernco hose material.
- Time and patience.
As stated previously, your hot tub will not work with a new Fernco nozzle hose, so you must remove the old one first.
-Unplug your hot tub’s power supply. Remove the Fernco adapter from your spigot (a wrench is required).
-Remove the Fernco fittings from your hot tub.Install the Fernco adapter to your fixture. Attach the garden hose to your Fernco nozzle and tighten it with a wrench.
-Attach the garden hose to your hot tub and start it up until it is full of water, then turn off the power (or unplug). Turn your hot tub on by plugging in power, then turn your hot tub to complete (usually about 3/4 full).
-Wait for it to fill up and be full (usually about 5-10 minutes). Turn off your hot tub and drain it down half, then drain down the other side.
-Attach the Fernco adapter to your drain pipe and get rid of as much water as possible. Open your Fernco nozzle and attach the hose material to it. Attach the hose material to your hot tub, then turn on your power again.
-Fill up your hot tub all the way around once more, and leave it for about 5 minutes (until complete). Turn off your power, open your nozzle and drain again.
-Attach your Fernco adapter to your overflow pipe and start the water flow. Open the Fernco nozzle and leave it on until the water starts flowing through it.
-Turn off the power, remove your garden hose from your hot tub, and untie or remove the hose material from the Fernco nozzle.
What Kind Of Pipe Is Used In Hot Tubs?
Hot tubs use PVC pipe primarily because it’s inexpensive, lightweight, and flexible. The pipes, typically made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), are connected to the Spa, though they can also use them in pools and Spas.
The pipes do not require maintenance, as they contain no toxic chemicals and are chemically resistant to nearly all pool chemicals and water conditions. However, PVC is not entirely immune to wear and tear.
As PVC ages, it can become brittle, crack, or break down within the hot tub. When this happens, there are two solutions: Installing new pipes or repairing the old ones.
Hot tubs use above-ground piping systems to take advantage of gravity and force the water around in a more controlled manner. The increased flow of water is vital to the overall experience of a hot tub.
Typically, hot tubs use lesser-G material PVC pipe and connectors. Lesser-G refers to the gauge (thickness) of the pipe and connectors. The thicker the material, the more rigid and durable it will be.
However, thinner pipes also weigh less, which makes them easier to install and store. Thinner pipes are less susceptible to pressure problems as well. The greater the gauge number, the thinner the pipe.
For example, a 4″ PVC pipe that is 1″ thick is known as a 4-G pipe. On the other hand, 1.5-inch pipes are known as 3-G, 2-inch pipes as 2-g, and so on.
How Tight Should Fernco Be?
It would be best to tighten your hot tub Fernco up to 60 PSI. Also, if you over-tighten, the hose may burst and spray H2O all over your garden.
Once installation is complete, a good idea for preventing a leak is to seal off any uncovered opening in Fernco with a waterproof adhesive. In addition, be sure to use a Fernco sealant to ensure the joint is waterproof for hot tubs and Spas.
A Fernco hot tub pressure relief valve and relief collar should be installed so that the hose is not damaged when it has reached the correct tightness.
When you complete the installation, flush your hose with fresh water to remove debris or manufacturing oils from your hot tub hose. Also, flush it out monthly.
Finally, remember that the manufacturer recommends you replace your hot tub hose every two years. To ensure your health and safety, keep this schedule in mind and replace your pipe on time.
Periodically check the hot tub to ensure it remains under the specified pressure. It’s also wise to regularly check for leaks and loose connections.
You can also buy a hot tub water leak detector for your peace of mind. This device will alert you when water flow is interrupted or leaking.
How Do You Plumb A Hot Tub Jet?
To plumb a jet in most cases, you’ll need PVC pipe. You will heat one end of the PVC pipe over an open flame, and the other will be attached to the hot tub hose.
Once this is done, one can connect fittings to each end of the pipe using plumbing fixtures or slip-on adapters for hosting your Spa.
If you are using a jet in a hot tub with an automatic-cycle system, you must install a power cord from the power head to the fitting on the end of the PVC pipe.
In many cases, you can use flexible PVC pipe, but you will need to be sure that it’s rated for temperatures above 170 degrees Fahrenheit. If your system is not rated above 200 degrees, it’s best to use the standard rigid pipe.
Usually, the length between the end of the pipe and the fitting will be 1/2 inch, but it’s up to you to decide. You must be sure you can close the fitting on top of your hot tub hose without bending or kinking it.
Using PVC pipe, use a flexible coupling that fits over your jet hose. This is usually made of two plastics: hard plastic and soft rubber or foam. One is usually red, and the other is usually blue.
For example, if your hose is 5/8 inch, a flexible PVC coupling will be about 3/4 inch in diameter. If your hose is 5/16 inches, you’ll want a flexible coupling about 1/2 inch in diameter.
If you’re using rigid PVC pipe, you’ll need to use something called a slip-on connector.
To use slip-on connectors, push the two pipes together to ensure connection. Use a wrench to tighten the fitting on top of the pipe. The next time you open the hot tub, you’ll need to remove this coupling and replace it with the larger one.
How Do You Install A Fernco Coupling?
First, You want to turn off the hot tub, close all four drain plugs, remove the cover and then disconnect the electrical connections. Next, you want to remove any small bolts or screws holding the valve’s handle in place.
If this is a gas-fired hot tub, you need to open up and plug in your gas control valve, exposing a hole with a copper fitting on top of it.
Next, Distribute the water grips all around the hot tub, which will ensure that your hot tub gets a good hold all around. Now you can start to put it in.
Using a rubber mallet, begin to drive the pipe into your hot tub by tapping on top.
If there is any difficulty, you might need to widen the hole out with a tiny drill bit or with a Dremel tool and then carefully follow through by tapping on top until your pipe goes in all the way.
Once it’s all the way, you can move forward and screw the Fernco coupling onto the pipe and tighten it down with a wrench.
You can now put your hot tub cover back on, plug in the electrical connections, and turn on your power to ensure everything works.
Once everything starts working correctly, fill up your hot tub until the water comes three inches above the top of your pipe and let it sit for 24 hours undisturbed so it can cure, just like any ordinary pipe would.
This will help ensure that it seals properly and you don’t have any leaks. Now, you can turn your hot tub on and enjoy.
How Do You Remove A Fernco Coupling?
First, You’ll need a wrench or socket set and your hot tub cover. With the cover placed on the floor, loosen the nuts connecting the water pipe from a wall to the coupling by turning them counterclockwise.
Remove these screws careful not to drop them down into your hot tub, where they could be lost between two tiles that were never meant to be removed.
Next, find a place to put your hot tub cover in front of your workbench. It’s now a work surface.
Using a pry bar or chisel, gently push up on one side of the vinyl coupling enough to get a screwdriver under, so the edges are clear from the decking. Once both edges are free, gently raise the coupling off the deck.
Be careful not to pry too far because you can damage the decking, and that water line will leak from under your decking. Once loose, lower the coupling to the floor.
Now you will need a caulking gun and a tube of PVC cement for the new pipe(s). Cut about an inch’s worth at a time out of your new pipe with some sharp snips or shears. I prefer the snips, especially if your pipe is thicker than 1″ in diameter.
Now it’s time to apply the PVC cement. I’m a big fan of the medium strength because it can be cut with scissors if your cuts get too close to anything you don’t want scraping.
Spread a thin coat of cement onto both ends of your new pipe and wait a minute (let’s not get it on our clothes). Then apply it to the pipe that you optimized previously.
You’ll have to move your pipe to get it neatly under the coupling flange on the floor and into position. Remove any excess glue around the nuts using a putty knife or chisel before tightening them down with your wrench.
The last step is to remove the excess glue you might have smeared on your decking using your putty knife or scraper.
Once you’ve removed all the excess adhesive, wipe down your new pipe and flange with a putty knife and water to remove any dirt from under your decking. Let it dry thoroughly.
Can A Rubber Coupling Be Used Underground?
Yes, You can use them underground. A rubber coupling is a specific type of coupler that uses an elastomer to transfer mechanical power.
They are generally used as a protective measure when transferring power between live conductors, electrical circuits, and equipment that cannot be adequately grounded.
For example, rubber couplings are used by industries, such as power generation and transportation, to connect insulated devices that require mechanical power.
Rubber couplings play a very important role in maintaining all types of equipment. For example, during the maintenance of live power cables, electrical devices are installed and disconnected from the cable.
Power is then transferred from the machine to a ground electrode using the rubber coupling. You must completely shut off the device being powered to prevent safety risks.
This typically involves pulling a circuit breaker to de-power the device being powered.
Although rubber couplings are designed primarily for industrial applications, they can be used at home if there are no safety concerns regarding the application and other factors such as equipment voltage.
Do Fernco Couplings Meet The Code?
Yes, The Couplings meet the code, but some people don’t know the code. A code is a set of rules regulating how things are designed and built, from simple things like electrical outlets to constructing nuclear power plants.
The codes regulating hot tubs are voluntary from a governmental standpoint, but many codes dictate what may and may not be done.
It’s essential to know your codes, and if you live in an area where no local code is enforced, then it’s up to you to follow them.
Code:
-You shall not install 2CA Live electrical wiring in the water of hot tubs.
-4F: If a plumbing drain for the tub is installed, it shall be not less than 3 inches in diameter.
-5E: You shall slope the tub away from the water so any leakage will flow to the toe side of the tub.
-7A: Tub shall not connect to the sewer within walls or floors.
-8D: Avoid installation of pipes, tubing, and fittings on walls or floors. This includes elbow fittings, couplings, and other plumbing connections to terminate at a wall or floor.
-9D: The drain, if installed, shall not come within 4 inches of the floor or other water-bearing surface.
-10A, You shall connect to the drain with a non-splitting, non-clogging fitting. This includes using a threaded coupler and a nut to secure it.
-11E, You shall direct the overflows from any tub away from the main drain outlet at all times.
Can Fernco Be Used On The Sump Pump?
Yes, When purchasing and installing your Fernco fittings,ensure you’re aware of their compatibility with drain pipes, whether they’ll fit the plumbing in your home, and how many holes these devices have.
A word of caution: Fernco fittings are very sensitive to pressure changes, so it’s essential to use them according to the directions. Once you have purchased your fittings, they should be ready for installation in approximately 30-60 minutes.
Fernco drain products are a popular alternative to traditional fabric and rubber sinks, bathtubs, and floor drains because of their unique flexibility.
When you purchase Fernco fittings, you get a rubber ring specially designed to fit tightly against the wall of your pipe. The rubber ring expands as it slides down the side of your pipe, sealing internal gaps and stopping clogs.
Fernco also has a variety of mesh screens that will replace older, outdated drain screens. Their mesh products are a great way to protect your drain from hair and other debris.
These products are also easy to clean and very reliable in their performance.
The most common type of Fernco fitting is the DR-25. This fitting is typically used for standard drains, kitchen sinks, bathtubs, floor drains, and some washing machines.
Fernco fittings have been tested against many materials, including copper, stainless steel, plastic, and galvanized pipes.
Can You Use A Fernco On A Copper Pipe?
Yes! You can easily join Copper pipe using a Fernco Compensating Coupling. Use it to repair leaking pipes and joints by wrapping it tightly with Teflon Tape to prevent leakage.
The Fernco brand was developed in the 1920’s exclusively for the plumbing industry and is today the world’s leading manufacturer of non-asbestos couplings for copper pipe.
The patented design includes a flexible gasket compressed when installing or removing the coupling from either end of the pipe. This compression generates a force that forms a reliable seal.
The Fernco Compensating Coupling is easy to use, economical, and highly effective.
Most couplings are factory-tested to ensure they can accommodate thermal expansion and contraction cycles (up to 200,000 cycles) without leaking.
You can use a Fernco Compensating Coupling on copper pipe, but the hardware you’ll need to do so isn’t available at your local hardware store. You will have to call a plumber.
Most hardware stores carry a limited stock of the fittings and pipes they sell.
In short, if you want to use a Fernco Compensating Coupling on copper pipe, you’ll probably have to call a plumber or contact a wholesale distributor of plumbing supplies in your area.
How Do You Stretch Out Fernco?
First, you’ll need to order the Fernco Flex-Liner. Fernco Flex-Liner is a durable and cost-effective way of extending the life of your pipeline by as much as ten years.
Second, remove any existing manhole covers on the pipe by unscrewing them with a ratchet. Third, inspect your existing piping. Ensure no obvious sign of damage, such as cracks, corrosion, or breaks in the pipe.
If your Fernco Flex-Liner arrives with cracks, you will get refund or a replacement.
If you are just replacing a section of pipe, we recommend using a screw gun or Easy-Tots T-Bar to help keep the Flex-Liner in place as long as possible. Alternately, you can hand screw the Flex-Liner in place.
Once you have completed your installation, you will need to allow the sealant 24 hours to dry and cure. You can then put Manhole covers in place.
If you’re replacing a section of pipe or working in tight quarters, it’s easier to put the manhole covers on and then screw them down with a ratchet after the Flex-Liner is installed.
Are Flexible PVC Couplings Rated For Direct Burial?
Yes, These flexible plastic pipes are often used in the construction industry for connecting underground sewer lines between buildings. They’re designed to be durable and withstand pressure, making them one of the best options for any underground connection.
However, before using a flexible PVC coupling outdoors, take note of its rating and whether it’s rated for outdoor use. These couplings could have reduced durability outside due to too long exposure to rain, snow, and other weather conditions.
Flexible PVC couplings can be used indoors or outdoors, but in both cases, you must be extra careful with their installation.
Follow proper steps to ensure their longevity and functionality, especially if they’re going to use them close to water, such as under a roof or near a pool.
When using a flexible PVC coupling outdoors, you’ll find that the manufacturer will indicate on the packaging whether or not it’s rated for outdoor use. A PVC coupling whose package says it’s for indoor use is unsuitable for outdoor installation.
Should We Wrap Buried Fernco Couplings With Something?
Yes, It would be best to wrap buried Fernco couplings with wire, plastic hose, metal, etc., to inhibit corrosion.
Wire – A metal wire should be wound around the coupling with a pitch no less than 24″. The wire should have a diameter that is not less than the outer diameter of the coupling and not more than two times than outer diameter.
Plastic hose- Wrap the coupling tightly with a black plastic hose, at least one layer. Cut it halfway up on each side so you can tie it down. A black rubber hose, or maybe a hose that Adiprene hardens, would work well.
Metal- Wrap the coupling with copper flashing/sheet metal, steel strapping, aluminum drip edges, etc., to inhibit rust. Stainless steel is OK but not necessary.
Sometimes you can use galvanized metal instead of stainless steel, which works fine as long as the zinc coating is intact.
You can paint the coupling if you want to make it look good. Use the type of paint resistant to water, gasoline, and chemicals. A pressure-treated wood preservative works well.
You can paint the wrapper, as well, or you can use tape to prevent corrosion.
The staple wrap is OK for short (less than 12′) spans and in dry environments, but it’s not recommended for long spans or wet conditions; otherwise, it will eventually rust through.
Can You Bury Fernco Couplings In Concrete?
Yes! However, you must seal the couplings, or they will rust and leak.
A sealant like Permatex High-Temperature Thread Sealant is the best guide because it withstands high temperatures (-65°F – 500°F). It’s also non-hardening, so you don’t have to worry about waiting for it to dry before proceeding.
I recommend that you apply the sealant around the base of the coupling, no more than 1/2″, towards the thread.
Let this dry overnight, then use a putty knife or similar to apply another coat of sealant no more than 1/2″ toward the thread. Let this dry again overnight, and then install your coupling.
When you install the sealant, make sure you use a light coat on the threads, not a heavy one that would cause them to harden.
The sealant should harden over the next few days. This sealant is rated for substrates up to 500 degrees F.
So far, I’ve heard of people using it on steel and cast iron, although I don’t know what the maximum recommended run temperature is on cast iron.
Using a thread sealant on any threaded fitting is a good idea, especially if you expect temperatures above 250 degrees F.
Conclusion
Underground plumbing can be a confusing and complicated process.
While this article may have pointed you in the right direction on some of the more common issues, it’s still a good idea to get in touch with an experienced plumber or Fernco expert to troubleshoot your piping installation.
