We’re getting some plumbing finished off for a new house and are wondering what pipes and fittings to use. We have 2 stainless steel rainwater tanks, which are to be connected to a pump, which will be connected to the kitchen for drinking water. We’ve asked the plumber to remove the copper pipe previously laid for the above purpose and replace it with plastic pipe, as we understand that the acidity from rainwater can cause high levels of copper in water. I understand rainwater is typically pH 5.5, and becoming more acidic as atmospheric carbon dioxide increases. (Ours is pH 6).
Our plumber suggested putting what he calls “poly pipe” between the tanks and the pump, and PEX pipe between the pump and the kitchen. He’s also willing to use PVC, but the other options are easier for him (and therefore we presume cheaper for us), and don’t require solvent cement, which, if it is as bad for health as it smells, mustn’t be good for the plumbers using it.
I’ve been told by one supplier that at least one of their polyethylene fittings has Bisphenol A (BPA) in. This is an endocrine disruptor, and has been linked to obesity, infertility, heart disease, diabetes and cancer. (FOE BisphenolA_report_OZversion.pdf) Authorities in Australia, North America and Europe give it the green light for the amounts currently used, but apparently not all researchers and people concerned with health agree.
I’d like to find pipe and fittings which comply with the Drinking Water Standard (AS/NZS 4020) and have no BPA in, nor other potentially harmful substances that may leach into the water.
Can anyone give me a clear crash course on pipes and fittings and suggest what would be suitable?
Unlike many people concerned about environment and health, I’d be willing to consider uPVC, as (except for the solvent cement initially), I’m not aware of anything that leaches into the water from uPVC. I understand that there’s a risk to health of the workers making the PVC (can other plastics also harm the health of manufacturing workers?), but not to the consumer. Any comments (with evidence!) welcome.