Nail through copper CH pipe

[ferkh10]

Just put a floorboard nail through a hot central heating water pipe. No big drama, just drained the system and no damage so all fine.

In terms of fixing it, I assume its OK to cut the pipe either side of the nail hole and use a compression coupler to join the pipe back together?

 

[Terry lambert]

yep. put a smear of jointing compound on the olive and check the pipe has the depth with the fitting to sit below the board level.

if the pipe has no play in it you will have to cut out a section and use two fittings. dont pull the pipe too tight as copper needs a little play for expansion when hot

 

[Burnerman]

If it's 15mm and there's no slack, Wickes burst coupling 226706 comes in well handy!
John

 

[ferkh10]

cheers.

Are the speedfit jobbies any good for my purpose?

 

[Burnerman]

Yes they are, so long as the ends of the pipe are cut clean and square, and aren't squashed out of round.
Still would choose copper though!
John

 

[leakydave]

If you use either a compression coupler or a push-fit connector will you get the floor board back down again without the fitting taking the weight, as they can be a bit bulky. It might be easier to solder a new section of pipe instead.

 

[St0rmer66]

Make sure the plastic fittings are suitable for central heating systems, not all are. They will seal the leak but let air in if it's the wrong type.

 

[JohnD]

it is impossible to solder a copper pipe that is wet.

it is very difficult to dry out a pipe that has had water in it. Not impossible, but very difficult.

 

[ferkh10]

Thanks all for the advice. Ending cutting either side of hole and using copper coupling, ptfe & jointing compound. Job done!