UPVC (unplasticised PVC) and CPVC (chlorinated PVC) are both rigid plastic pipes used in plumbing, but they are built for different temperatures. The simple rule: UPVC for cold water, CPVC for hot water.
Quick answer
Use UPVC for cold-water supply, pressure mains and column/borewell lines — it is rigid, strong and corrosion-proof. Use CPVC wherever hot water flows (geyser, solar, kitchen), because it withstands ~93°C while UPVC softens above ~60°C.
UPVC vs CPVC at a glance
| Property | UPVC | CPVC |
|---|---|---|
| Water temperature | Cold only (~60°C max) | Hot & cold (~93°C) |
| Rigidity | Very rigid & strong | Rigid |
| Best for | Cold mains, column/borewell | Hot-water plumbing |
| Cost | Lower | Higher |
| Joining | Solvent cement (UPVC grade) | Solvent cement (CPVC grade) |
When to use UPVC
- Cold-water supply mains and risers
- Column and borewell pipe for submersible pumps
- Industrial and exposed cold-water lines
When to use CPVC
- Hot-water lines from geysers and solar heaters
- Kitchen and bathroom hot lines
- Any line that may carry hot water
We stock both — see UPVC pipes & fittings and PVC & CPVC pipes. Also compare PVC vs CPVC.