I've had similar experiences—SharkBites are convenient, but reliability can be hit or miss. Compression fittings do feel more secure long-term. Curious if anyone's tried press fittings for boiler plumbing...are they worth the investment for DIYers?
"Curious if anyone's tried press fittings for boiler plumbing...are they worth the investment for DIYers?"
Press fittings are great in theory—fast, clean, and professional-looking—but honestly, I wouldn't recommend them for most DIY boiler work. The tools alone are pricey, and unless you're using them regularly, it's tough to justify. Plus, the fittings themselves aren't exactly cheap either. I'd stick with compression fittings; they're reliable, straightforward, and easier on your wallet. Save press fittings for pros or when you're tackling a bigger project that really warrants the investment.
Press fittings are great in theory—fast, clean, and professional-looking—but honestly, I wouldn't recommend them for most DIY boiler work. The tools alone are pricey, and unless you're using ...
I get where you're coming from on the cost factor, but honestly, press fittings saved my sanity when I redid my own boiler piping. Before that, I'd always stuck to compression fittings—definitely reliable—but after dealing with cramped corners and a few leaks that drove me nuts, I gave in and rented the press tool for a weekend. Yeah, it was pricey upfront, but the speed and ease made it totally worth it for me. Guess it depends how much you value your time (and patience), haha...
"Guess it depends how much you value your time (and patience), haha..."
Fair point, but for me it's not just about time—it's about reliability long-term. I've seen press fittings hold up great, but I've also had to redo jobs where they weren't crimped perfectly and caused slow leaks months later. Compression fittings might be a pain in tight spaces, but at least you can visually confirm they're seated right. Curious if anyone's had issues with press fittings failing down the line...?
I've had a press fitting leak on me once—super frustrating since it was behind drywall. Probably user error, but still... compression fittings might be fiddly, but at least you know when they're snugged up properly. Lesson learned the hard way, haha.
