Copper is a great heat conductor, making it the ideal material for piping applications. It also has some particular advantages and disadvantages. Its most positive quality is its ability to be easily soldered and welded made more robust by adding additional layers with no loss of efficiency. In terms of price, copper is one of the most expensive metals in the world. But when it comes down to what you should use if you need to replace this type of piping, some alternatives can offer cheaper pricing and other benefits like resistance to corrosion or high-heat contact areas.

Here Is What You Should Use To Replace Copper Piping

1. Stainless Steel

Stainless steel is not a great heat conductor but provides good protection against corrosion. This metal would be an excellent substitute for copper in an area where the piping will be in contact with water. Most stainless steel piping comes with a passivation treatment that protects it from corrosion and makes it resistant to bacteria and fungus growth. Tougher stainless steels like 304 and 316L can work well for high temperature applications such as holding natural gas or if you need some strength to hold up against expansion in residential heating and cooling systems.

2. Aluminum

If your copper piping is in an area that will have contact with flame, you should consider switching out the copper for aluminum. Using this metal has the added advantage of reducing installation costs and labor time. Due to its lightweight, it is easier to work with and transport. Aluminum piping is not a great heat conductor but can offer corrosion resistance and reduce plumbing costs. However, if you need maximum thermal conductivity, this metal will not be your best choice as it is not as conductive as copper.

3. Cast Iron

Cast iron is a great thermal conductor that resists corrosion. It also offers a reasonable service life without the need for anti-corrosion treatments. This metal is a good choice for use in high-temperature applications, such as holding hot water or very high water contact levels, such as in kitchen ranges or water heaters. Cast iron can also hold hot oil and other pastes at temperatures over 1800 degrees Fahrenheit. It also has the advantage of being sturdy when working with high-pressure systems and can withstand constant contact with corrosive solutions such as acid.

4. Plastic Or Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC)

If you are looking for a material that doesn’t conduct heat well and is also resistant to corrosion, PVC will be your best choice. In addition, this option is more economical than copper and is among the least expensive materials available. Plastic piping can come in a range of colors and can be flexible, often allowing cuts without having to solder the sections back together. Its low price makes it a good choice for applications where you want to create a bulk water supply, like in a hot tub or water cooling system, including fish tanks, although these applications might not be as durable due to their plastic nature.

5. Cast Iron

This material has excellent corrosion resistance and is also a good heat conductor. Its main drawback is that
it can be pretty heavy, making it difficult to transport when you are doing the installation. Another drawback is that cast iron can rust if not correctly cared for. This is not the best option if you have limited space in your order.

For the best possible results, use copper. However, choose the more cost-effective option if you need to save money. For durability, choose a material that is corrosion-resistant and can withstand heat. If a product has a shorter service life, expect it to be more expensive than one that offers long life plus other benefits. But there’s no getting around the fact that using cast iron or aluminum in high-temperature applications will cost more and be less durable than a material with similar properties but a lower price tag, such as PVC, cast iron, or stainless steel.