Yeah, agreed on push-fits—they're handy in a pinch but can be hit-or-miss long-term. I've seen them hold up surprisingly well in low-pressure setups, but kitchen sinks can sometimes have sudden pressure spikes (dishwasher valves closing, faucet being slammed shut, etc.) which might cause issues down the line. Also, I've noticed some push-fit brands seem more reliable than others—maybe it's worth checking reviews before going that route?
If you're hesitant about soldering, compression fittings are a solid middle ground. They're straightforward to install, no flame involved, and pretty forgiving if you prep your pipes right. Just make sure you don't overtighten them... learned that the hard way myself when I cracked a fitting and had to redo everything.
"Just make sure you don't overtighten them... learned that the hard way myself when I cracked a fitting and had to redo everything."
Haha, been there myself—nothing like thinking you're almost done, then hearing that dreaded crack. Compression fittings saved me when I first moved into my place and had zero soldering experience. I was pretty skeptical about push-fits too, but ended up using one temporarily under my bathroom sink. Surprisingly, it's held up fine for over a year now, but that's a lower-pressure line without any sudden spikes.
Speaking of pressure spikes, has anyone here installed a water hammer arrestor near their kitchen sink or dishwasher? I've heard mixed things—some swear by them, others say they're unnecessary if your plumbing's set up right. Curious if they're worth the extra effort or just another gimmick...
I've installed a couple water hammer arrestors myself, one near the dishwasher and another by the washing machine. Honestly, I was skeptical at first—seemed like another gimmicky add-on—but they genuinely made a noticeable difference. Before, I'd get that annoying banging every time the dishwasher cycled off abruptly. Now it's quiet. Sure, good plumbing layout helps, but older houses or quick-closing valves can still cause issues. I'd say they're worth it if you're already experiencing noise or vibration... otherwise, probably not necessary.
"Compression fittings saved me when I first moved into my place and had zero soldering experience."
Same here—compression fittings were a lifesaver until I got comfortable soldering.
Compression fittings definitely saved me a headache or two when I first started tackling plumbing projects. They're great for quick fixes, especially if you're not confident soldering yet. But honestly, once you get comfortable with soldering, it's hard to beat the reliability of a properly sweated joint.
"older houses or quick-closing valves can still cause issues."
Exactly. My place is older, and even after updating some plumbing, I still had occasional banging noises. Installed a couple arrestors near the washer and dishwasher—problem solved. Another thing worth mentioning: if you're eco-conscious and have installed low-flow fixtures or appliances, sometimes the sudden shut-off can actually make water hammer worse. Arrestors help smooth that out nicely.
Bottom line, if you're already hearing noise or feeling vibrations, they're worth it. Otherwise, probably not needed... save your money for something else.
Compression fittings really are lifesavers when you're new to plumbing—I leaned on them heavily at first too. But I have to agree, soldered joints just feel more permanent and trustworthy once you get the hang of them. One small note though: always make sure your pipes are bone-dry before soldering. Even a tiny bit of moisture can ruin your joint and leave you chasing leaks... learned that one the hard way during my kitchen remodel.
