Fernco Flexible Or No-Hub: Selecting The Right Coupling For The Job

Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional plumber, there usually comes a time when you need to connect two pipes. Couplings often come in handy in such scenarios.

Today, we have two main types of couplings: the Fernco Flexible couplings and the No-Hub couplings.

If you’re finding it difficult to choose between these two types of couplings, I have prepared a detailed review explaining the features of both options and comparing their differences and similarities.

By the end of this article, you should be able to make an informed choice.

Fernco Flexible Couplings: A Versatile and Affordable Choice

As the name implies, these couplings are well known for their flexibility. These couplings are available in sizes ranging from 19mm to 381mm. Therefore, they can be used in a wide range of applications.

To date, Fernco Flexible couplings stand out for their reliability and overall performance. They can be used on all pipe materials, ranging from cast iron to plastic. And thanks to the flexibility aspect, you need not worry about leaks.

The flexible couplings made by Fernco are resistant to UV rays, chemicals, and fungus. It’s also worth mentioning that they are very easy to use.

Fernco Flexible Couplings’ Standout Features

• Flexible: One of the most unique features of Fernco Flexible couplings is that they are made out of elastomeric materials.

Therefore, they are super flexible. This flexibility enables these couplings to easily fit pipes and conform to different sizes.

• Compatible with Many Pipe Materials: With Fernco Flexible Couplings, you can use them on any pipe material.

It doesn’t matter whether the two pipes you want to join are made out of steel, copper, cast iron, or PVC. These couplings will get the job done.

• Available in Many Sizes: Earlier, I did share with you the size range of Fernco Flexible couplings. This means that you can use these couplings on both residential and commercial pipes, which are often very large.

• Easy to Install: Fernco Flexible Couplings are effortless to install. Just tighten the clamp at the top and bottom, and you’re good to go.

• Highly Resistant to Leaking: Another unique feature of Fernco Flexible couplings that I like is how resistant they are to leaking.

The Perks of Choosing Fernco Flexible Couplings

• They are quite versatile

• They are super durable

• They are more affordable than other couplings

• Easy to install

• They create a watertight seal between pipes

Potential Drawbacks of Fernco Flexible Couplings

• Fernco Flexible couplings don’t thrive in high-pressure plumbing

• They are not very visually appealing (This applies to exposed piping)

No-Hub Couplings: The Go-To for Cast Iron

This is the go-to coupling for connecting cast iron pipes. When you look at a no-hub coupling, you’ll notice that it has a shielded design.

The main role of this design is to facilitate the transfer of pressure from the clamps to the gasket and then to the pipe.

The No-Hub Coupling was introduced as a replacement for the hub and spigot cast iron pipe.

The latter method was extremely hectic, and to pull it off, one had to have some learning and training experience. But with the no-hub coupling, anyone can install it.

What Makes No-Hub Couplings Unique

• It’s Specifically Designed for Connecting Cast Iron Pipes: One thing you have to understand about no-hub couplings is that they can only be used to connect cast iron pipes. In such a setting, this coupling delivers long-lasting performance.

• The Shield Design: Apart from aiding in the transfer of pressure, the shield design enables the coupling to adjust to the circumference of the pipe ensuring no leaks.

• Interlocking Clamp Design: On the side of a no-hub coupling, there is a screw that mechanically interlocks the band to ensure no leaks.

• There is a Standard, Medium-Duty, and Heavy-Duty No-Hub Coupling. Therefore, you can choose the hub that best fits your application.

• Higher Resistance to Temperatures: The other thing I like about no-hub couplings is that they can withstand high temperatures.

So, if you anticipate ferrying very cold or hot water in your cast iron pipes, go for no-hub coupling.

Reasons to Choose No-Hub Couplings

• They are perfect for connecting cast iron pipes

• They are resistant to high temperatures and chemicals

• Very easy to install

• Very durable

• They offer a high level of leak resistance

Downsides of No-Hub Couplings

• You can’t use this coupling on other pipe materials

• It also has limited applications (These couplings are only used in drainage systems.)

Comparing These Two Heavy Hitters

• Fernco Flexible Couplings are Compatible with More Pipe Materials than No-Hub Coupling

Fernco Flexible couplings can be used on literally all piping materials, ranging from copper to PVC. However, no-hub couplings can only be used on cast-iron pipes.

This is the first difference that should help you figure out whether you should choose Fernco Flexible or No-Hub Coupling.

• Fernco Flexible Coupling is More Versatile than No-Hub Coupling

No-hub coupling only works with cast iron pipes that are mainly used in drainage systems. But Fernco Flexible Coupling can be used on a wide range of plumbing projects, such as residential and commercial plumbing systems.

• No-Hub Couplings are More Leak-resistant than Fernco Flexible Couplings

One sector in which Fernco Flexible couplings stand out the most is their high level of leak resistance. These couplings can be used to connect pipes where leaks are always a big challenge.

As for Fernco Flexible couplings, the leak resistance levels are good enough.

• No-Hub Couplings Cost More than Fernco Flexible Couplings

When you look at the build of no-hub couplings, it shouldn’t come as a surprise that they cost more than their counterparts. This doesn’t mean that Fernco flexible couplings are inferior.

It’s even an added advantage because Fernco flexible couplings can be used if you’re installing plumbing on a budget.

Finding Common Ground Between the Couplings

Besides the many differences, there are a few things that make the Fernco Flexible coupling and the No-Hub couplings very similar. They include;

• Both couplings do a great job of preventing leaks.

• Both couplings are used to connect pipes.

• It’s safe to say that both couplings are very easy to install. You don’t need any special techniques or tools.

• And finally, both couplings are resistant to corrosion.

Is Fernco Flexible the Right Choice for You?

Here is a list of individuals who would benefit from choosing Fernco Flexible Couplings:

1. People with versatile plumbing needs: If you need to connect pipes made out of different materials and in different environments, such as residential and commercial premises, you should consider the Fernco Flexible couplings.

2. Those plumbing on a budget: Because Fernco Flexible couplings are affordable, they are ideal when plumbing on a budget.

3. Those installing pipes for non-pressurized systems: If your pipes won’t be carrying water or waste at high pressure, Fernco Flexible couplings are perfect for this task.

4. Both DIY and Professional Plumbers: For the DIY folk, Fernco Flexible couplings are easy to install and don’t need any special skills or tools. As for the experts, these couplings will save you a lot of time during installations.

Who Should Opt for No-Hub Couplings?

Here is a detailed overview of those who should consider using no-hub couplings:

1. People installing cast iron pipes: No-hub couplings are the best option for cast iron pipes. So, if you’re dealing with this pipe material, no-hub couplings should be your top choice.

2. Plumbing systems that need high leak resistance: If you want a coupling that is highly resistant to leaks, you need not hesitate when choosing a no-hub coupling. This mostly applies to sewers.

3. Those installing plumbing in commercial facilities: Because the plumbing pipes in commercial facilities are large, no-hub couplings do a great job of preventing leaks.

4. People who prefer low-maintenance plumbing systems: No-hub couplings are very durable. So, they are an ideal option for those who don’t like engaging in regular maintenance.