Plumbing questions.

[AZDesertRat]

Teflon, PTFE, is poison if eaten. Thats why you don't want to use a teflon coated skillet that has the surface peeling.
Just because it says poison doesn't make it bad, just don't eat it.

 

[tyler1503]

Teflon, PTFE, is poison if eaten. Thats why you don't want to use a teflon coated skillet that has the surface peeling.
Just because it says poison doesn't make it bad, just don't eat it.

Fair enough. I'll have to read into those products a bit more before I start joining things. Thanks for the heads up

 

[amond003]

I have used the tape for years with no issues

 

[NanaReefer]

I'm using it now on my new build Wrap the threads tight going with the threads. Going opposite will cause the tape to bunch up and not seal properly.

 

[sundog101]

Reviving this thread haha.
At macna Bill Wann said he uses silicone to seal threaded fittings. Would that be adequate?

 

[CiCikl85]

Plumber here... I wouldn't use silicone even though it would work for a couple reasons... 1) Time, takes 24 hrs to properly dry and if it does leak then you have to take it apart and do it again which could be a pain trying to break loose a fitting siliconed into a threaded bulkhead under a tank... 2) It can make a mess 3) Teflon is cheaper and last longer... Many people use way to much Teflon than what is needed 3-4 snug wraps is all you need especially for the purposes we aquarist use it for. Quick tip a old timer plumber taught me was to keep your teflon 1-2 threads behind 1st thread and this prevents "pinching" the teflon or tearing it loose. With PVC or Poly fittings hand tighten them, then tighten them 1/2 turn to 1 full turn with a wench then stop or you risk breaking the fitting or you can even stretch the threads to the point you have to load it up with teflon and then you still risk it leaking or eventually leaking.

 

[Dom274]

This is why you don’t use Teflon tape...

 

[CiCikl85]

I'm sorry but that is not the teflon's fault more so user error... You clearly either put to much teflon on male fitting or threaded that fitting to tight or both causing that valve/check valve to split. 3-4 full wraps then Just hand tighten then all it needs is a half turn to 1 full turn with a wrench and it will hold a 100# test... This is my 1" gate valve right above my return pump which is a Jebao DCP 10000...