Revolutionising Water Systems: Why Press-Fit is the New Standard for Plumbers

Speed and Compliance in Modern Plumbing

The pressure on professional plumbers and heating engineers is constant: deliver fast, reliable, and compliant work, particularly when dealing with water systems in occupied buildings. For decades, traditional soldering was the default for copper pipework. However, modern press-fit systems are rapidly becoming the preferred method for installations, repairs, and especially high-risk potable (drinking) water applications.

At HPS, we see the shift daily. We stock a full range of press-fit solutions because they offer a superior balance of speed, safety, and guaranteed joint integrity across domestic and commercial water applications.

The Game Changer: Consistency on Potable Water Lines

When installing or repairing mains water and potable water lines, joint consistency is critical. Contamination risks and long-term reliability are non-negotiable.

1. Guaranteed Joint Integrity

A press-fit joint is a mechanical connection made using a specialised tool to compress the fitting onto the pipe, activating an internal O-ring seal . This process eliminates human error inherent in soldering, such as insufficient flux or uneven heat, which can lead to leaks years later. The sealed nature of the connection provides a reliable, high-pressure seal guaranteed by the tooling manufacturer.

2. Zero Contamination Risk

Soldering requires flux and heat, which can leave trace residue within the pipe. This residue can be problematic, particularly in potable water systems. Press-fit is a cold connection, meaning there is no flux, no solder, and no heat introduced into the pipe interior. This makes it an ideal, clean solution for meeting stringent water quality standards.

Efficiency and Safety in the Real World

The technical benefits translate directly into commercial advantages for your business.

Faster Turnaround, Higher Profit

Every minute spent on a job is a minute of labour you need to bill. A traditional soldered joint involves multiple steps: cutting, deburring, cleaning, fluxing, heating, and cooling. A press-fit joint is completed in seconds. Over a day's work on a first-fix plumbing job, this cumulative time saving is substantial, allowing you to complete more jobs per week and boost profitability.

Eliminating Fire Risk and Insurance Headaches

Working on water lines often means navigating tight spaces near wooden joists, insulation, or finished walls. Soldering requires a hot work permit and introduces a significant fire risk, which is a major concern for both you and your client's insurance. Press-fit eliminates the torch, making it the safest option for installations and repairs, especially in sensitive environments like schools, hospitals, or occupied homes.

Investment vs. Payback: The Financial View

The initial outlay for high-quality press tools and jaws can be substantial. Additionally, the fittings themselves typically cost more than basic copper fittings. However, the calculation quickly shifts in favour of press-fit when you factor in your time:

Labour Savings: The reduction in man-hours required for jointing outweighs the increased material cost on any medium to large project.

Reduced Call-Backs: The consistency of the mechanical press dramatically lowers the risk of joint failure, protecting your guarantee and preventing unbillable call-back time.

For any heating and plumbing business looking to scale up, reduce liability, and maximise output, the move to press-fit is a strategic necessity.

Your Next Step with HPS

HPS is ready to support your transition to modern plumbing methods. We stock all major press-fit systems suitable for copper and multi-layer pipework, ensuring we have the reliable fittings you need, alongside competitive advice on tooling and jaw compatibility.

Visit us online or at our trade counter and talk to our experts about setting up your press-fit system today.

Published on 12 December 2025