In the world of plumbing, small changes in technology can have a big impact—especially when it comes to how pipes are joined. For decades, copper piping in Westchester County homes was soldered together using a combination of heat, flux, and skill. But today, more and more plumbing professionals are turning to a new solution: ProPress. A flame-free option, ProPress has become the preferred approach for many copper pipe installations and repairs by Flotechs Plumbing and Heating. In this guide, we break down how both methods work, why the difference matters, and when ProPress is the smart choice for your home.
Understanding Copper Pipes in Westchester Homes
Copper has long been the gold standard for residential plumbing—and for good reason. It’s durable, long-lasting, and resistant to corrosion. But even the best copper systems eventually need repair or replacement, especially in older homes common throughout Yonkers, Mt. Vernon, and Bronxville.
If you’re wondering how long your copper pipes are expected to last, take a look at our recent article on The Lifespan of Copper Pipes. While copper has impressive longevity, how the pipes are connected plays a major role in system performance over time.
Traditional Soldering: Reliable but Labor-Intensive
Soldering is the time-tested process of joining copper pipes by heating them with a torch and applying melted metal (solder) to seal the joint. The method relies on a combination of temperature, technique, and timing to create a watertight connection.
While soldering is still widely used, it has some drawbacks. First and foremost, it involves an open flame, which can be a hazard in tight spaces, near wood framing, or inside finished walls. Soldering also requires that pipes be completely dry before work begins—a challenge during emergency repairs when standing water is involved.
Despite these limitations, soldering remains a respected and useful technique, particularly in situations that require custom pipe work or where space constraints make it difficult to use press tools.
ProPress: The Modern Alternative
ProPress is a newer technology that uses specialized fittings and a battery-powered pressing tool to join copper pipes—without heat. The fittings contain an internal sealing ring, and when the tool compresses the connection, it creates a secure, leak-proof joint in just seconds.
This method has gained popularity not only because of its speed, but also for the safety and consistency it offers. There’s no flame, no waiting for pipes to cool, and no need to shut down the entire system for long periods. In emergency situations or larger projects where time is critical, ProPress offers a distinct advantage.
Comparing Safety, Speed, and Cost
One of the biggest differences between ProPress and soldering is safety. Because ProPress doesn’t require an open flame, it significantly reduces fire risk. This is especially important in homes with older construction materials or limited access points, like many of those in the Westchester area.
In terms of speed, ProPress can reduce labor time substantially. What might take 20-30 minutes to solder can often be completed in under 5 minutes with a press fitting. That means quicker service, fewer disruptions, and faster water restoration.
ProPress fittings are more expensive than traditional copper fittings. However, the overall cost is often balanced out by labor savings, especially when you factor in the reduced risk of mistakes and damage.
Why Flotechs Recommends ProPress
At Flotechs, our goal is always to provide safe, efficient, and high-quality plumbing solutions. We recommend ProPress for most copper pipe repairs and installations because it meets those standards—and because it allows us to deliver better results for our customers across Westchester County.
Whether we’re working in a historic Yonkers home or responding to a late-night emergency in Bronxville, ProPress helps our team of local plumbers work cleanly, quickly, and confidently. It’s especially helpful in tight basements, older buildings, and places where a torch simply isn’t practical.
That said, our expert plumbers are trained in both methods. We assess each job individually to determine the best approach for the specific system, space, and situation.
Is ProPress Right for Your Home?
Not every home or repair job calls for ProPress, but in many situations, it is the most effective and least disruptive option. Homeowners who want faster repairs, safer service, and long-lasting results often find that ProPress offers peace of mind with minimal mess or downtime.
If you’re unsure what type of piping you have or whether your plumbing system is due for an upgrade, Flotechs is here to help. We can inspect your system, identify potential concerns, and recommend the solution that fits your home best.
A Smarter Connection
As plumbing technology continues to evolve, Flotechs Plumbing and Heating remains committed to bringing the best practices and tools to homes and businesses throughout Westchester County. Whether through ProPress or traditional soldering, our team of highly qualified plumbers ensures every connection is made with care, experience, and a focus on quality.
At Flotechs Plumbing and Heating, we take pride in being your go-to plumbing and heating experts in Yonkers. We also serve other nearby areas like Mt. Vernon, and Bronxville. As a reliable and professional team, we are dedicated to providing top-notch services to residential and commercial clients throughout Westchester County. Our commitment to reliability, professionalism, and customer satisfaction ensures you receive the best service possible. Contact us today for expert assistance in preparing your home for summer storms and maintaining your plumbing systems year-round.
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