ECN Forum Forums Code Related Discussion NEC & other Code issues Preventing PVC leak.

During the installation of the RNC from a wet-niche fixture to the raised j-box (see my previous post), it occurred to me that much of the pipe will be below the water line.
Can any precautions can be made to prevent water from leaking from the glue joints into the ground?
I have used "medium body" cement to thoroughly fill the voids in the joints, but still wonder about leaks.

[This message has been edited by Redsy (edited 11-10-2003).]

May not help much Redsy,but I always use glue on both the pipe and the coupling. There's a lot less chance of a void in the joint that way.
Another thing I do sometimes is use a primer/cleaner on the conduit before I apply the glue. I'm sure someone will say primer isn't listed for use with conduit,but I've never seen it cause a problem,and it sure makes a heckuva joint.

Russell

Redsy, For myself I just accept the fact the conductors will be underwater no mater what I do.

Short of pressurizing the line, water will get in.

Use the wet location conductors as required by code, be careful not to damage the insulation on the install and IMO you will have a long lasting job.

Water can form in a pipe without leaks from condensation which may take months but can fill the low spots of a raceway.

Bob

I believe the integral fixture lead/cord is intended for continuous immersion in chlorinated water, and that it is futile to try of keep the below-grade PVC interior dry.

BUT, it is important that the internal gland in the elevated box be secured around the wet-niche lead/cord, to limit water ingress and minimize corrosion in the box.


[This message has been edited by Bjarney (edited 11-11-2003).]

I may be missing some thing, but it seems that with a wet-niche, water will rise up out the back of the niche and into the conduit until it reaches the pool water level.
I am concerned that any compromised joints in this run might develop a slow leak and the pool water will escape, thereby lowering the pool water level.

Remember, that other PVC is used for pressurized water lines all the time with no special provisions. Just be careful to do a good job on the joints and I think more will evaporate out the top of the pipe than will ever leak underground. I don't do a lot of PVC but I aways coat both halves with glue and give a good twist when I slide them together.

Jim,
You're probably right. I guess I am worrying about it too much.

Thanks everyone!

You should be using cleaner on each fitting and when glued it will not let water leak out.

I use the Carlon gray PVC solvent cement. I's pretty heavy and fills joints well.

John