Addressing misconceptions about PVC pipe for drinking water

By Dani Sheehan.

Understand the safety, performance and sustainability of PVC pipe for drinking water systems and other applications.

Consumers are increasingly cautious about the materials used in their homes, especially plastics, largely due to concerns over chemicals like BPA (a chemical used in plastics that can seep into food and beverages) in water bottles and food containers. However, it’s important to distinguish between different types of plastics. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) – a key material in America’s water, wastewater, building and electrical infrastructure – is often incorrectly grouped into these concerns.  

Why PVC deserves a closer look

Westlake Pipe & Fittings recently published a commentary addressing common misconceptions about the safety of PVC piping in drinking water systems by Anne Austin, an environmental health and safety attorney. One persistent myth stems from fears about vinyl chloride monomer (VCM), a chemical used during the manufacturing of PVC. Critics argue that VCM could leach into drinking water, posing a health risk.  

Austin explains that this misunderstanding overlooks the science of PVC production. She compares the process to cooking an egg: just as a raw egg permanently transforms when hard-boiled and cannot return to its original state, VCM is permanently polymerized during PVC manufacturing. Once formed, the PVC structure is stable and does not release VCM into drinking water.  

In other words, properly manufactured PVC pipe is a durable, safe material – not a source of chemical exposure.

Performance and sustainability benefits of PVC pipe

Beyond its safety, PVC is also one of the highest-performing piping materials available for drinking water systems. Studies show that PVC has the lowest break rate compared to alternative piping materials, contributing to reliable service and fewer costly repairs over time.

PVC piping also offers significant environmental advantages. Its smooth interior walls reduce friction, which means less energy is required to pump water through the system – lowering long-term energy use and operational costs.  

PVC also resists a common issue found in metal pipes: tuberculation. Tuberculation, the build-up of corrosion and biofilms inside iron pipes, can restrict water flow and become a breeding ground for bacteria. Unlike iron, PVC pipe does not suffer from internal corrosion, helping to maintain the water quality and system efficiency over the long term.

In terms of material sourcing, PVC production relies on sustainable, abundant resources: chlorine derived from salt and domestically produced natural gas. This reduces the need for imported oil and supports local supply chains. Compared to other piping options, the production of PVC results in a lower carbon footprint.

Durability is another major advantage. Research from the American Water Works Association Research Foundation places the life expectancy of PVC water pipes at more than 110 years, making it a smart, long-term investment for infrastructure projects. Plus, PVC is 100% recyclable, and its manufacturing process uses about 50% less energy than producing traditional iron piping.

Ready to explore the benefits of PVC piping across different markets? Put PVC’s proven performance, safety and sustainability to work with Westlake Pipe & Fittings.

Image source: Westlake Pipe & Fittings