wc connection 1/2 inch?

[rhinosaw]

Maybe a stoopid question but I get the impression that wc,s have a half inch connection. Why is that when all pipework going into it is normally 15mm. ? Why don't the manufacturers make a wc with 15mm connection? Perhaps some do.

 

[Nige F]

The connection is half inch BSP thread - it was like this when lead pipe was used, then half inch copper.

 

[rhinosaw]

Ok, thanks I get that but things have moved on , why cant any new wc,s be designed with a 15mm connection?

 

[Newboy]

And the advantage of that would be?

 

[Newboy]

You need to connect this

to this (or equivalent)

The thread on the fill-valve is 1/2" BSP

There's no advantage in changing the 1/2" BSP to a metric thread (and quite a few disadvantages - two versions of every fill-valve or two versions of every possible connector)

This is soldered to your 15mm supply pipe and enables you to screw the pipe to the inlet valve on your cistern
https://www.screwfix.com/p/flomasta-end-feed-straight-tap-connector-15mm-x/23555

Or, if soldering isn't your thing, then a compression fitting
https://www.screwfix.com/p/p903sf-1-straight-tap-connector-15mm-x/58294

Or if you prefer push-fit
https://www.screwfix.com/p/hep2o-hd25a-15ws-straight-tap-connector-15mm-x/3063f

Or if you prefer a flexible compression fitting
https://www.screwfix.com/p/flexible-tap-connector-15mm-x-x-300mm/6697g

Or if you prefer a push-fit flexible fitting
https://www.screwfix.com/p/hep2o-push-fit-flexible-tap-connectors-22mm-x-x-300mm-2-pack/9473f

 

[ReganAndCarter]

Ok, thanks I get that but things have moved on , why cant any new wc,s be designed with a 15mm connection?

Why does it need to be in MMs?

Be thankful that the EU hasn't screwed around with our standard British pipe/fitting sizes (BSP). Or are you some kind of remainer??

Even the Yanks use our BTUs (British Thermal Units) for heat output on boilers, heating systems, etc.

 

[rhinosaw]

Ok R &C, I accept it. No I,m not a remainer. I assume basin and bath taps are 1/2 & 3/4 inch?
When did copper change from 1/2 inch to
15mm, early 70's?

 

[Newboy]

Usually basin and sink taps are 1/2" BSP and bath taps are 3/4" BSP

15 mm copper and 1/2" copper are (pretty much) interchangeable. 3/4" and 22mm tube isn't.

The 1/2" on the pipe size refers to the internal diameter (bore) whereas the 15mm refers to the external diameter.

The 1/2" BSP refers to the fitting size and thread

 

[ReganAndCarter]

Ok R &C, I accept it. No I,m not a remainer. I assume basin and bath taps are 1/2 & 3/4 inch?
When did copper change from 1/2 inch to
15mm, early 70's?

Yes, standard washered basin and bath taps are 1/2" and 3/4". The pipe is joined to these taps using either a 1/2" or 3/4" tap connector.

Copper did change in early 70s, NigeF is your man for the exact year, month and day. Unless he was on strike that day.

The 1/2" connector used with a fibre washer to connect to the toilet fill valve in NotSoNewBoy's post is actually a 1/2" tap connector. Although some people seem to use 15mm compression fittings occasionally, I believe the tap connector is actually the correct way.

 

[Newboy]

If you think BSP reference is confusing then try the French system


The ½” thread, called 15/21 in France.
15 is the ID of the washer.
21 is the OD of the thread and the washer.
The ID of the thread is 19mm.

 

[rhinosaw]

Thanks for all the info

 

[Bodd]

Why does it need to be in MMs?

Be thankful that the EU hasn't screwed around with our standard British pipe/fitting sizes (BSP). Or are you some kind of remainer??

Even the Yanks use our BTUs (British Thermal Units) for heat output on boilers, heating systems, etc.

And the Canadians

 

[HERTS P&D]

Copper did change in early 70s, NigeF is your man for the exact year, month and day. Unless he was on strike that day.

I think he was retired by then.



Andy

 

[ReganAndCarter]

I think he was retired by then.



Andy

I think you're probably right, Herts. No call for joint wiping any more, so on the scrap heap at the tender age of 82.

But there was the 3 day week in the 70s, so technically you could go semi-retired.

(Only kidding, Nige )