3/8 or 1/2 supply angle stops... what do you use?

[whackit]

So I have always installed 3/8 angle stops.. no particular reason. I recently had a job with an, um, 'particular' customer. He made me swap out all of the 3/8 stops for 1/2 inch ones and told me 'nobody uses 3/8 anymore'. I explained that the lines are the same size etc but he had to have his way. Okay no biggie, easy swap. But my question is...

What do you use? 1/2 or 3/8?

 

[Terry]

Always 3/8"

I don't know any plumbers that install 1/2"
And most new faucets that come with their own supply lines only come with 3/8".
Send him hear and I will educate him.

1/2" out of the wall and 3/8" comp to the lav.

But sometimes I do see 3/8" comp, 1/2" comp and 1/2" IP shutoffs needing 1/2" FIP supplies too.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[hj]

I only use 1/2" when connecting to an old angle stop that is still functional.

 

[FullySprinklered]

3/8.

I try to keep 1/2 x 3/8 comp. adapters for those times I run into 1/2.

Anyone using 1/2 in stops probably has flame decals on his Yugo.

 

[Jadnashua]

There are few things in today's flow restricted requirements that could benefit from a full-port 1/2" device. Way back when, maybe, but it's been decades.

 

[Dj2]

For me they're all the same, just like threaded angle stops vs compression vs soldered.

3/8" is the most convenient though.

 

[hj]

How do you keep the female adapters from leaking on a 1/2" angle stop since they have straight threads. not tapered ones?

 

[Dj2]

By making sure the washer inside is in good condition. Use new connectors every time you install a new angle stops.

The 1/2" outlet angle stops will eventually disappear.

 

[Plumber69]

Always 3/8th. But once in awhile I get a customer that wants something done a certain way even though it makes no sence.