What is the difference between #5 and #95 fluxes?
The #95 paste flux contains a silver solder tinning powder which helps fill in the joint when heat is applied, #5 does not.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which solder should I use when installing water lines?
Silver Lead Free, 95/5 and Instant Solder are approved for this application.
What type of solder and flux should I use to solder stainless steel?
None. Oatey does not manufacture a solder or flux for this application.
What is the difference between water soluble and non-soluble (petroleum base) flux?
The water soluble flux is less corrosive, and self-cleans on the interior of the pipe as water flows through the lines. The water soluble flux has a narrower temperature range when heating, but it works with all the solders.
How do I flush flux out of my water lines?
You will start off by getting a five gallon bucket and small electric pump with two washing machine hoses. Mix 1-one pound box of TSP (Tri-Sodium Phosphate), 16 ounces (2 cups) of bleach and hot water in the five gallon bucket. Drain enough water from your system to allow this mixture to be pumped into the water lines, and circulate throughout the system for one hour. The best location for hose connections is the hot and cold washing machine valves. Drain the system completely and repeat this process again. After the second application, you will want to flush the system out through each fixture for at least 15 minutes.
How can excess flux be removed from the exterior of pipe after the joint has been soldered?
After the soldering process is completed while the pipe is still warm, you can wipe the joint with a dry clean rag to remove the excess flux. If the pipe has cooled or fluids are passing through it, you can use mild detergents (i.e. Dawn dish detergent) to wash off the excess flux.
Do you need to stir Oatey fluxes before applying it to the joints?
Yes. It is very important to stir upwards from the container bottom to insure any salts which have settled are mixed evenly into the flux. This should be done before the start of each project.
What is the shelf life of Oatey fluxes?
2 years from date of manufacture.
How much silver is in Oatey Silver solder?
Less than 2%.
What is the difference between Oatey Silver Lead Free solder and Oatey Safe-Flo solder?
The only difference is that Safe-Flo is the retail branded version.