• The proper pipes for cold water will keep you healthy and may save you money.Grungy kitchen image by Tormod Rossavik from Fotolia.com
  
  Choosing the right cold water pipe is important as there are health, cost and replacement factors to consider. Metal pipes are durable but may corrode. Plastic pipes are cost effective but aren't as durable. Lead pipes could pose a health risk, while copper pipes aren't as pliable as other types of plumbing materials.
  
  

Steel Pipe

• The steel pipe is a common pipe for cold water and comes in a variety of different size materials. The steel plumbing includes vent pipes, soil pipes, sewers and traps. Steel is also used in draining and vent systems. Although durable, steel pipes are subject to corrosion over time. Their low costs are a benefit as they are often cheaper than other types of pipes.
  
  

Lead Pipe

• Lead ipe is best used for cold water drainage rather than the pipes serving your water. As lead can be poisonous to the water system, lead joints are best for support of cast iron drainage systems.
  
  

Copper Pipes

• Copper tubing conveys cold water for personal use and doesn't normally corrode. Where lead piping in your water system may corrode and dissolve residue into the water, soluble copper isn't considered harmful. So, even if copper has minimal residue, it won't affect people from drinking water drawn through copper pipes.
  
  

Corrosive-resistant Pipes

• Clay, brass and bronze pipes are also a good material for cold-water pipes because they are usually non-corroding. Clay pipe is used in sewer systems as it can be constructed in large sizes. The corrosion occurs from moisture and acid present in water.
  
  

Cast Iron

• Cast iron handles cold water better than steel or iron because it drains better than those two materials. Cast iron can last 50 years, which is longer than most other materials. Although a strong material to use, the cost is a bit higher and installation is more difficult, as other materials are more pliable.
  
  

PVC Pipe

• The PVC plastic pipe is a good choice for cold water plumbing because it's inexpensive compare to steel and copper and doesn't corrode. PVC pipe is also flexible and is rated on the amount of pressure the pipes can handle.