Soldering (End-Feed) Question

[woodbine]

I'm only a keen DIYer, but I like to use copper and solder fittings wherever I can. However, as I don't have massive experience, I have had a few variable results.

One or two joints have failed because solder didn't go the whole way around the joint. Sometimes, I also find it difficult to get the solder into the joint, and not just dribble down the outside.

Someone has pointed out that I should heat the fitting and the pipe, but I was originally shown just to heat the fitting.

Can someone tell me what I should do? Thanks

 

[WaterTight]

It's like anything with a bit of skill involved, it just takes practise. You can get the pipe/fitting too hot, not hot enough, not enough flux, not an even enough spread of flux. Unless you're simply determined to learn how to do it for it's own sake (which i suspect is the case) you could just use solder ring fittings.

Otherwise, if just doing it for the love of learning a skill - perfectly admirable - I'd suggest getting a few lengths of copper, bunch of fittings and just practise. You'll notice some work like a dream, others don't. Eventually you'll develop a sense of how to make it consistant, it's easy to describe the correct method but an ounce of practise is worth a pound of teaching.

 

[woodbine]

Thanks. Yes I admit I need more practice.

But to heat the fitting only, or the pipe as well where it enters the fitting?

 

[moony]

heat the pipe and the fitting if ive got room.