Slip vs threaded fittings

[ryanerickson]

If you want to be able to take your gate valve apart you can get a unioned gate valve the unions are built right in and it's slip. Threaded valves blow they always eventually leek same with threaded bulkheads. The reason I put this valve in was to be able to service my return pump plus I had it sitting around.

 

[wolfblue]

For threads, I've used RectorSeal and it works good. But I like Whitlam Blue Magic better. You will too...

 

[sleepydoc]

I've never seen that coupling before. What makes it a better alternative to unions?

As mentioned, they allow for adjustment in length, and also have a lower profile.

IME, they are less tolerant to torque on the plumbing (but we all have our plumbing well supported, right? )