The main reasons welding is not recommended for residential stainless steel water pipes are the high technica threshold, high cost, and the tendency to create hidden safety hazards.
1. Technical Requirements Are Stringent
Residential spaces are typically confined, making TIG welding operations challenging. This process requires certified, skilled technicians who can precisely control the temperature and melt depth. Inadequate control can easily lead to brittle or burnt-through welds. Furthermore, insufficient shielding gas can cause the weld to oxidize and rust, creating a hidden risk of leakage.
2. Cost Far Exceeds Household Needs
Welding requires specialized equipment such as TIG welders and argon gas tanks, resulting in high equipment costs. Additionally, the labor fees for skilled welders are 50%-100% higher than those for clamp-press connections, making it a very low-cost-benefit solution for the average household.
3. High Difficulty of Later Maintenance
Welded joints are permanent connections. If a pipe fails later on, it cannot be disassembled for repair. Instead, it must be replaced destructively, which damages wall and floor finishes and causes additional losses.
4. Mismatched Application Scenarios
Welding is better suited for industrial large-diameter pipelines or high-pressure scenarios. For residential low-pressure water supply systems, clamp-press connections are a perfect substitute. They are easy to install, provide excellent sealing, and allow for convenient maintenance later on.
