pipe fittings for 1/2" black polypropylene tubing

[ulrichsd]

Hi everyone, quick plumbing question. So I don't use the old Polaris pool cleaner, but I had to redo some plumbing and was planning to re-plumb the line. I was thinking that it would need the 1/2" fitting - it looks like it is the correct size. However, when I push it in, it is not loose, but just slides without any resistance. Would it be that I need 3/4" fitting and you really have to heat it up and loosen it? I've never had to work with polypropylene, just PVC so I'm not sure how this works. Picture showing the tubing.

Thanks! Scott

 

[PoolStored]

Search google for "poly pipe clamps" Will look like one of the following:

 

[ulrichsd]

Search google for "poly pipe clamps" Will look like one of the following:

Thanks, yes, I was planning to put a clamp on, but was thinking the threads should add at least some resistance?

 

[PoolStored]

the threads should add at least some resistance?

I do not understand this...do you mean the barbs on the adapter that fits into the pipe?

 

[PoolStored]

The barbed fittings can come in Polyethylene (PE) Polybutylene (PB) and pvc. They can all come in a variety of colors (each have a different meaning...i.e. PE gray is up to 200PSI, white is up to 60psi).

Depending on if the pipe is PE or PB, and the barbed fitting is different, they may be the same size, but have a different coefficient of friction, allowing the "looseness" you are seeing.

Based on your picture, that is the correct size. I would insert and clamp. If it does not maintain pressure, likely it is a PB fitting...I'd find a PE or PVC fitting with 1/2" barb. You could also find a brass barbed fitting to convert from the PE to the PVC.