Push-Fit vs Compression Fittings: Which Should You Use?

If you're a plumber working in London, you'll reach for push-fit and compression fittings dozens of times a week. Both are reliable, both are widely stocked — but they're not interchangeable, and using the wrong type on the wrong job can cause callbacks.

Here's a practical breakdown.

Push-fit fittings

Push-fit fittings (also called speedfit or Hep2O depending on the brand) use an internal grab ring and O-ring seal to create a watertight connection without solder or compression.

Best for:

• Domestic hot and cold water pipework
• Heating circuits (check manufacturer's max temperature rating — most are rated to 95°C)
• Tight spaces where you can't easily access the fitting after installation
• Speed — a push-fit joint takes seconds vs minutes for compression or solder

Not ideal for:

• Buried or inaccessible locations (compression is more appropriate for permanent, non-accessible runs)
• High-vibration environments
• Microwave pressure testing at >3 bar (check with your inspector)

Brands we stock:

• JG Speedfit — the market leader. Demountable, so you can disassemble a joint if needed. Temperature-rated to 95°C / 10 bar. Available in 10mm, 15mm, 22mm, and 28mm.
• Hep2O — Wavin's alternative to Speedfit. Compatible with JG fittings of the same diameter. Widely accepted by building inspectors.
• Polyplumb — a lower-cost option popular for underfloor heating manifold connections.

Compression fittings

Compression fittings use a nut and olive (ferrule) to create a mechanical seal around the pipe. No solder, no flame, but more time to install than push-fit.

Best for:

• Locations that will be concealed behind plasterboard or under floors where you want a permanent fitting
• Replacing existing compression joints (consistency matters)
• Connections to valves, stopcocks, and radiator valves — most are still compression
• Cold and hot water mains up to the service valve

Common ranges:

• Yorkshire (Conex) — the standard for copper end-feed and solder ring fittings. Solder ring fittings are faster on complex jobs (solder is pre-loaded).
• Pegler — good quality compression fittings with reliable olives. Popular in London for radiator connections.
• Generic brass compression — adequate for most domestic cold water work, lower cost on high-volume jobs.

MDPE and above-ground drainage

A quick note: for underground mains (MDPE blue pipe), push-fit fittings designed for copper are not suitable. MDPE requires its own range of insert-and-crimp or compression fittings rated for mains pressure. We stock Plasson and Philmac connectors for blue and black MDPE.

What we have in stock at Acton

At our trade counter in Acton W3 7TZ, we carry:

• JG Speedfit 10mm, 15mm, 22mm, 28mm — elbows, tees, straight couplings, stop valves, pipe reducers
• Hep2O full range
• Yorkshire solder ring fittings — 15mm, 22mm (end-feed also available)
• Compression fittings — 15mm and 22mm, brass olives included
• MDPE connectors — 20mm, 25mm, 32mm

If you need something specific not listed, call ahead: 020 8702 8080. We can usually source next-day.

Trade accounts available — if you're a plumber spending regularly, open a trade account for consistent pricing and 30-day credit terms. Email info@apmi.uk.