Plumbing systems are the ground reality of any residential or commercial building since they maintain a clean water supply and efficient drainage. But know that every plumbing application is unique and must choose the proper fitting. Regarding that, the two most commonly used fittings for perpendicularly connecting two waste pipes are the double fixture fitting and the double sanitary tee.
But Double Fixture Fitting Vs. Double Sanitary Tee. Which one is best? A double fixture fitting connects two equal-sized waste pipes so that they can drain into a single branch. Contrary to that, a double sanitary tee connects two waste pipes at a 90-degree angle or perpendicularly, with a bend at the end to ensure proper drainage.
This article will shed light on the differences between double fixture fitting and double sanitary tee. So by the end of this article, you will know which is best for you!
Double Fixture Fitting Vs. Double Sanitary Tee: An Overview
Here is a table stating an overview of both fittings.
| Feature | Double Fixture Fitting | Double Sanitary Tee |
| Design | Y shape, Connects two same-sized inlet ports to one outlet port | T shape, two inlet ports, one outlet port with a sweeping bend at the bottom |
| Functionality | Joins two plumbing fixtures to a single branch | Links two waste pipes at a 90-degree angle |
| Applications | Residential and commercial plumbing systems where two plumbing fixtures share a standard drain line | Primarily used to connect two vent pipes to a single vent stack or in vertical drainage lines |
| Suitability | Work with most plumbing systems | Not suitable for horizontal drainage lines |
Is Double Fixture Fitting Better or Double Sanitary Tee?
Double Fixture Fitting and Double Sanitary Tee have their gives and takes and are used in specific settings. Let’s see which one is good!
About Double Fixture Fitting
We mentioned earlier a double fixture plumbing fitting interlinks two waste pipes of the same size so that two pipes drain into a single outlet. You will see this type of fixture in most domestic and commercial buildings. Some instances are a sink and a bathtub linked to a common drain line.
The double fixture fitting stars a “Y” shape with two inlets (say from bathtub and sink) and one outlet port (to main drain line). As with any other plumbing fixture, this one is also available in different materials.
From PVC and ABS to cast iron and PEX, there are a lot of varieties to use in residential and commercial plumbing systems.
Advantages
Double fixture fitting is the most commonly used plumbing fitting, but there is a good reason to do so.
- It minimizes the clutter of drain lines need for proper sewerage.
- You can cut the pipe installation cost while also abridging the plumbing system.
- Moreover, it also offers your piping system to drain into a single outlet to cut the extra burden of connections and fittings.
Disadvantages
- Although double fixture fitting is an enticing option for domestic applications, it also runs the risk of clogs.
- Since you will be connecting two or (sometimes more) pipes to a single drain line, you will increase the risk of clogs. For instance, if the main pipeline is clogged, it will jeopardize the entire plumbing line.
- Moreover, you will need to pay more attention to pipe installation because if the waste flow from two fixtures is not evenly distributed, one drain will be slower than the other.
About Double Sanitary Tee
The double sanitary Tee, as the name suggests, connects two waste pipes to a single line to form a 90-degree angle. With its T shape, it has a sharp curve at the lower part so that it can drain properly.
Moreover, the curve on the waste pipe entails a larger radius than a standard elbow, so it can increase flow efficiency and improve waste flow.
Just as a double fixture fitting, the double sanitary Tee is appropriate for uses where two waste pipes must be connected to a single branch. But an exception here is that it does so with a 90-degree angle. Furthermore, it can also help connect two vent pipes to a vertical vent stack.
Advantages
- One of the best things about using a double sanitary tee is the suave transition between the two waste pipes.
- In fact, there is a minimal risk of clogs and blockages.
- It reduces the chances of foul odors and backups owing to its efficient flow.
Disadvantages
- It does not go hand in hand with all plumbing applications. For instance, you should not leverage it in horizontal drainage lines where the flow of waste is under pressure.
- Although we can use it for vertical lines, the other way around, it accumulates solids and debris, resulting in clogs.
Which One to Choose: Double Fixture Fitting vs Double Sanitary Tee
As you know that connecting two waste pipes at a 90-degree angle can be done with double fixture fitting and the double sanitary Tee. But how are these two different let’s explore!
Design and Functionality
As mentioned above, the double fixture fitting comes with a “Y” shape where it inputs waste from two outlets and removes it to one outlet port. On the other hand, the double sanitary Tee connects two waste pipes at a 90-degree angle.
Although both fittings come with two inlets and one outlet port, their design and functionality differ. You can use a double fixture fitting for connecting two plumbing fixtures to a single drain line.
On the other hand, it connects two waste pipes at a 90-degree angle. Moreover, the latter also provides proper venting for the plumbing system.
Suitability for Different Plumbing Systems
The double fixture fitting suits residential and commercial plumbing systems where you need to connect to drain lines. Contrary to that, the double sanitary Tee is suitable for connecting two vent pipes to a single vent stack. Moreover, it is also used in vertical drainage lines, not horizontal.
Gives and Takes of both Fittings
The plumbing system can be simplified. And installation expenses can be reduced by the double fixture fitting’s reduction in the number of drain lines needed. However, if the plumbing system needs to be correctly constructed or maintained, it might increase the chance of clogs and backups.
Thus, the double sanitary Tee minimizes the possibility of jams and blockages by ensuring no interruption between the two waste pipes. It might not be appropriate for some plumbing applications, such as horizontal drainage lines under pressure.
So, the double fixture fitting and the double sanitary Tee have their gives and takes. But both plumbing fittings offer efficient and effective drainage for their intended applications.
Therefore, before choosing a fitting, you must recall your specific plumbing system requirements. This way, you can ensure optimal performance and prevent clogs and leaks.
FAQs
Below are some most commonly asked questions regarding the double fixture fitting and double sanitary Tee.
No, it is not recommended to use one fitting instead of the other. Why? Because both are used for different purposes. A double fixture fitting is intended to connect two plumbing fixtures to a single branch, whereas the latter connects two waste pipes at a 90-degree angle.
No. In general, utilizing a double sanitary tee in horizontal drainage lines is not advised, mainly if the waste flow is under pressure. This is because the sweeping curve at the bottom of the Tee may not offer sufficient slope for adequate drainage, which could result in the buildup of particles and debris.
PVC, ABS, and cast iron are just a few materials available for both fittings. Moreover, your plumbing system’s specific requirements, such as the size of the pipes and the kind of waste that will pass through them, will determine the material to use.
Despite the fact that you may install these fittings yourself, it is advised to do so to ensure proper installation and prevent potential plumbing problems like leaks and blockages. Additionally, a qualified plumber may recommend the best fitting for your unique requirements.
Conclusion
So by now, you know how important it is to choose the proper plumbing fitting. In fact, proper plumbing fitting is essential to maintain optimum efficiency and avoid plumbing problems like clogs and leaks. The double sanitary Tee joins two vent pipes to a single vent stack or in vertical drainage lines.
And the double fixture fitting is appropriate for instances where two plumbing fixtures share a standard drain line. However, before choosing a fitting, it is crucial to consider the plumbing system’s particular requirements, as both fittings have benefits and drawbacks.