aliexspert pvc fittings

[tommys78]

hi, one thing, who among you has ever bought PVC fittings from aliexspert? are the material and ball valves reliable? do you think I trust you?
Thank you

 

[Harpo]

On one hand PVC is PVC so just about anyone can make a PVC fitting. However, when it comes to ball valves, I'm picky and only go with brand name because I have had them seize up on me

 

[tommys78]

On one hand PVC is PVC so just about anyone can make a PVC fitting. However, when it comes to ball valves, I'm picky and only go with brand name because I have had them seize up on me

thanks, so for valves it's better to be on the safe side.

 

[CrabMech]

I completely agree with Harpo about valves: don't cheap out on them. Low quality valves are infamous for sticking or developing leaks. Also many of them cannot be taken apart for service which is also a problem. I wouldn't risk anything with a gasket or O-ring either, often times the cheap brands skimp on the quality of those seals and that can cause leaks in the future. So I wouldn't buy things like bulkhead fittings or unions from cheapo brands either. It's not so important for other fittings, especially since aquarium plumbing is very low pressure. But that said, PVC fittings are generally quite cheap as it is, I don't really see much reason to buy them from Aliexpress. The risk:reward ratio is not very good. A failed fitting could mean a flood (very bad), but you probably aren't saving much money up front. Personally I wouldn't risk it. It's not like a wavemaker where shopping at Aliexpress could save you hundreds of $$$/€€€.

 

[tommys78]

I completely agree with Harpo about valves: don't cheap out on them. Low quality valves are infamous for sticking or developing leaks. Also many of them cannot be taken apart for service which is also a problem. I wouldn't risk anything with a gasket or O-ring either, often times the cheap brands skimp on the quality of those seals and that can cause leaks in the future. So I wouldn't buy things like bulkhead fittings or unions from cheapo brands either. It's not so important for other fittings, especially since aquarium plumbing is very low pressure. But that said, PVC fittings are generally quite cheap as it is, I don't really see much reason to buy them from Aliexpress. The risk:reward ratio is not very good. A failed fitting could mean a flood (very bad), but you probably aren't saving much money up front. Personally I wouldn't risk it. It's not like a wavemaker where shopping at Aliexpress could save you hundreds of $$$/€€€.

yes, perhaps you are right, the price difference is not so high, it is better to go for quality material for certain types.
thank you all.