PVC vs CPVC

PVC is polyvinyl chloride, and CPVC is the same plastic with extra chlorine added. That change raises the temperature it can take. Standard PVC begins to distort at about 140 F (60 C), while CPVC is rated to about 200 F (93 C), which is why CPVC is used for hot water lines.

Both are joined with solvent cement, but not the same cement. CPVC cements meet ASTM F493 and PVC cements meet ASTM D2564, so check the can before gluing. Local plumbing code decides what is allowed for supply water or drains in your area, so confirm with your building department.

PVC vs CPVC side by side

Last verified October 2026. Typical values; individual animals, products and local prices vary.

Which one fits you

PVC

• You are running cold-water or drain, waste and vent lines where heat is not a factor.
• You want the common, familiar pipe for sewer and drain work.
• The line stays well under 140 F, such as irrigation or cold supply.
• You are following a plumber's or code's call for standard PVC on a drain.

CPVC

• You are running hot water supply lines and need a pipe rated for water up to about 180 F.
• You want a more flexible pipe that retains heat better than metal.
• The line may see warm water, such as from a water heater.
• Local code allows plastic hot water lines and you will use the matching CPVC cement.

How this works

The quiz asks about water temperature, use, cement, routing and heat loss. Each answer favors the pipe most associated with that cue, and the note under each question names both so you can see the reasoning, including which cues are weaker or overlap.

This is a general comparison. Pressure ratings change with pipe size, wall thickness and water temperature, and plumbing codes differ by location, so confirm product ratings with the manufacturer and your local building department before you buy or install anything for hot water.

Where these numbers come from

The figures and defaults on this page are based on:

• Wikipedia: Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride, CPVC temperature limit, flexibility, strength, insulation and cement standard. (checked October 2026)
• Wikipedia: Polyvinyl chloride, PVC 140 F limit and its use in drain and sewer pipe. (checked October 2026)
• Charlotte Pipe: FlowGuard Gold CPVC CTS System, CPVC rated for water to 180 F, hot and cold use, F493 cement. (checked October 2026)
• Charlotte Pipe: Value engineering checklist, PVC 140 F maximum working temperature and expansion figure. (checked October 2026)

General plumbing information, not a code ruling. Follow your local plumbing code and the manufacturer's instructions.