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What’s Better: Copper or Plastic Radiator Pipes?

Copper vs. Plastic Radiator Pipes: Which is the Right Choice for Your Heating System?



When it comes to choosing the right pipes for your domestic/residential heating and hot water system, there are two main options: copper and plastic.


Each has its pros and cons, and your choice can impact the efficiency, durability, and cost of your heating system.


At Busy Energy, we often guide our clients through this decision to help them make the best choice for their needs.


Copper Pipes:

  • Tried and True Copper pipes have long been the go-to material for radiator and plumbing systems. Here’s why they remain a popular choice: Durability: Copper pipes are resistant to high temperatures and won’t warp or sag over time. They can withstand high pressures better than plastic, making them a reliable choice for heating and hot water systems.

  • Longevity: With proper installation, system flushing and maintenance, copper pipes will last for many decades, providing a lasting investment. Low Risk of Leakage: Copper is less likely to develop leaks, being rodent proof in the main, and less likely to fail, no inserts are needed (to forget to insert)! most joints are soldered or hard mechanical (compression/pressed) meaning fewer repair needs over time. While copper may have a higher initial cost than plastic, its durability and performance often make it the more cost-effective choice in the long run.

  • Bacteria; Copper can kill bacteria like Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, and Enterococcus faecalis. Copper surfaces can eliminate up to 99.9% of harmful bacteria within two hours.


Importantly for renewable low temperature systems due to the fact that plastic systems have in the main liners or inner sleeves when they couple/connect this reduces the internal pipe diameter, and water flow rates, when compared to the same size ID copper, so this must be taken into consideration at flow and temperature design stage.


Plastic Pipes:

  • A Lightweight Alternative with Some Drawbacks Plastic pipes are lighter and more flexible than copper, which can make them easier and often much faster to install. They’re often used in new builds and some retrofits, but there are some important factors to consider: Potential for Warping: Plastic can expand and contract with temperature changes, which may cause it to warp or sag over time, especially under high temperatures. Increased Risk of Leaks: Plastic pipes are more susceptible to leakage than copper, and fittings may loosen over time, in particular de-mountable fittings. This can lead to frequent maintenance needs. Limited Longevity: While plastic pipes are generally lower cost to install, and a lot easier too, they can require replacement sooner than copper pipes, potentially leading to higher lifetime costs.

  • Flow rates can be less than with comparably sized copper pipe. Plastic is more susceptible to Rodent attack too.


Importantly environmentally wise copper is a semi-precious metal which has a high recycle values, whereas plastics cannot match the sustainability that copper offers.


We do offer both systems, but more often recommend copper pipes for heating and potable water systems to ensure maximum efficiency, flow rates, and assurances in longevity, and minimal maintenance.


At Busy Energy, we specialise in central heating design, installation and maintenance, and our team can help you decide whether copper or plastic pipes are the right fit for your home or business.


📞 Contact us today for a consultation, or visit our website to learn more about our heating services across Yorkshire, Lincolnshire, Nottinghamshire, and North Norfolk.

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