Replacing mains lead pipe with MDPE - connecting to the meter / outside stop valve - advice needed

grumbler

I guess I have to use some adaptor instead of replacing the entire coupler. Correct?

If so, at SF I see 25mm x 3/4" male - is it what I need for 25mm pipes? Will it fit the existing brass coupler?

FloPlast 492202 MDPE Male Adaptor 25mm x ¾" (14858)

Also, I think I need inserts -

Jeepers_Creepers

That's the gist. But i'd remove all that brass and go fully plastic from that pipe onwards.

You are using 25mm MDPE? And the blue pipe from the meter is ditto? If so, use https://www.screwfix.com/p/floplast-492012-mdpe-coupler-25mm-x-25mm/17684

And, yes, make sure to use inserts. There should already be one in that short blue pipe.

(I don't suppose going inside the meter box is an option? I guess it ain't allowed. Are you even allowed to connect a new mains pipe without first having your worked approved - depth, protection, etc?)

grumbler

Jeepers_Creepers said:

That's the gist. But i'd remove all that brass and go fully plastic from that pipe onwards.

You are using 25mm MDPE? And the blue pipe from the meter is ditto? If so, use https://www.screwfix.com/p/floplast-492012-mdpe-coupler-25mm-x-25mm/17684

And, yes, make sure to use inserts. There should already be one in that short blue pipe.

(I don't suppose going inside the meter box is an option? I guess it ain't allowed. Are you even allowed to connect a new mains pipe without first having your worked approved - depth, protection, etc?)

I hope I am allowed, but it's just common sense. The depth and the route of the pipe remains the same - to the point where it reaches the extension on the side of the hose, currently under construction. AFAIK, it doesn't need any protection.

The brass fitting was installed recently by the water company when they replaced the street pipe. That's why I am sort of reluctant to replace it, but maybe you are right and I should.

ETA: my common sense failed me - apparently I "should use our list of approved WaterMark plumbers in my area", but I think I'm going to ignore this.

Jeepers_Creepers

Worth having a look at the installation guidance for this just to make sure you are doing it properly - required min depth (to protect against frost, mainly), pipe laid on - and covered by - pea-shingle or similar, perhaps a warning tape required above? (Haven't looked for ages).

Take photos of each completed stage to show you've done this (in case you are challenged about it afterwards - do you fancy having to dig it all up?!), and make sure you mark - perhaps on a copy of your deeds - the pipe location (unless it's exactly where the old lead one was).

I would personally lose that brass fitting - just no need for it any more, and it adds unnecessary complexity; the MDPE fitting one will be more reliable overall. Measure the dia of that existing blue pipe and check it's also 25mm. If it's 20mm, you can buy reducing unions instead.