Are plumbing parts from a hardware store like Home Depot safe for aquarium plumbing? i.e ball and check valves

Public Comments

1. As long as they are made of PVC or stainless steel they should be quite safe for aquarium use.
2. Any copper in an aquarium is likley to kill the fish so ensure all plastic parts are being used. If your plannig to put fish in a flushing sistern (i have seen that done before) I think you should consider the effect on the fish themselves. If it's only for decoration... its a bit odd.
3. Yes. Its just like buying the exact same thing at the pet store just cheaper. Just make sure you clean everything before using it.
4. I use PVC parts from the hardware store all the time and they are safe. You should wash these first with water and take a good look at them and make sure there isn't any oil or other foreign substance on them. Use a lot of union fittings so you can disassemble what you have constructed and don't have to destroy the plumbing project if there is a problem or if you need access to a certain part of the system like the pump, filter, etc. They make a shut off valve with union fitting on both sides. Our local Lowe's sold this though Menard's and Home Depot didn't carry this part. For my design this part really helped. Make sure you use a good grade of pvc and not the cheapest because it will crack due to the constant water pressure and stress from the pump. I don't recall if 200 was the one you wanted to avoid or if it was 40 though I think 80 is what I used. Compare the prices and the really cheap stuff is the grade you want to avoid. They also make a flexible pvc for spas that works really well in some set ups. I like to use this for going into and away from the pump so there is a little play in the pvc because the pumps can shake a little. This may just be personal prefferance.
5. As long as it is pvc or flex able tubing that is made for drinking water you are safe..My tanks are plumbed with the same stuff..