Use CPVC for hot water, UPVC for cold. This guide covers the difference, the temperature limits, and how to pick for your job.
Use CPVC for hot and cold water plumbing inside buildings, and UPVC for cold water supply, agriculture and column pipes. Both are corrosion-free and long-lasting, but they handle heat very differently, which is the main thing that decides your choice.
| CPVC | UPVC | |
|---|---|---|
| Hot water | Yes — rated to about 93°C | No — cold water only |
| Typical use | Internal hot & cold plumbing: bathrooms, kitchens | Cold water supply, agriculture, borewell column pipes |
| Material | Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride | Unplasticised polyvinyl chloride |
| Corrosion / rust | Corrosion-free | Corrosion-free |
| Where it fails | Costlier than UPVC for plain cold lines | Softens and fails if used for hot water |
| Common brands we stock | Prince, Ashirvad, Astral, Supreme, Kelvin | Prince, Ashirvad, Kelvin, Kisan |
CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) is designed to carry hot water safely — typically up to around 93°C. That makes it the standard choice for internal plumbing where hot and cold lines run together, such as bathrooms and kitchens.
UPVC (unplasticised PVC) is a rigid pipe for cold water only. It's widely used for cold water supply lines, borewell column pipes and agricultural applications. It should not be used for hot water.
Ask three questions: Will the line carry hot water? (If yes, CPVC.) Is it an internal plumbing line or an external/cold supply line? What pressure and diameter does the application need? If you share your layout or BOQ, our team will specify the right system, sizes and fittings for you.
No. UPVC is rated for cold water only and will soften and deform if used on a hot water line. Use CPVC for any line carrying hot water.
CPVC is typically rated to around 93°C, which is why it is the standard choice for internal hot and cold water plumbing in homes and commercial buildings.
CPVC generally costs more than UPVC, which is why most projects use CPVC for hot and cold internal plumbing and UPVC for plain cold water supply, agriculture and column pipes.
UPVC is the usual choice for borewell column pipes because the application is cold water and needs rigidity and tensile strength. Share your depth and pump details and we will specify the right grade.
Share your list or BOQ and we'll call back with pricing and availability, usually the same working day.
