Essential PVC Plumbing Parts Every Cruiser Should Carry

Things break on boats. That’s just how it goes. And when plumbing is involved, it’s usually not at a good time. You’re either in a quiet anchorage with no spare parts, or under way, hoping something doesn’t start leaking. That’s why a few key PVC items stashed in a bin can save the day. The parts are cheap. The problems they solve aren’t.

The Case for Carrying PVC Spares

Plumbing repairs at sea don’t need to be complex. But they do need to be possible. Let’s agree on that. Most cruisers eventually run into issues with drains, toilet systems, or bilge lines. Even the most vigilant run into issues like this.

The common denominator? PVC. It’s durable, easy to work with, and doesn’t corrode. More importantly, it’s predictable. If you’ve got the right fitting and a way to seal it, you’re back in business fast.

That’s the whole idea. Fix it before things get worse.

Schedule 40 PVC Elbows and Other Must-Haves

Every cruiser’s repair kit should include a few Schedule 40 PVC elbows. Standard stuff. The 90-degree elbows are the most used, followed closely by the 45s. Most marine plumbing spaces are tight. You’re working around bulkheads, tanks, and lockers. Flexible hose doesn’t always cut it. Elbows let you route water lines without strain on joints or fittings.

Also, pack some straight couplings. Slip and threaded types. You don’t need many, just enough to cover basic joins. That’s often two of each. They’re small. Light. Easy to stash.

Pipe Segments Ready To Go

Short runs of PVC can be the difference between a solid fix and a patch job. Carrying pre-cut pipe — maybe 12-inch lengths — is smart. Go with 1” and 1.5” sizes. That’ll handle most lines on board. Store them somewhere they won’t warp or get crushed.

You’re not building a whole system. You’re just replacing a section that failed.

Adaptors and Bushings for Emergency Fixes

Not everything on your boat was installed the same way. Some fittings are metric. Others are oddball sizes. A few adaptors and reducer bushings keep you flexible. It’s not like you need to carry a supply in your pocket at all times.

You won’t use them often, but those times when the threads don’t match up, or you need to connect two lines that weren’t meant to meet? You’ll be congratulating yourself they’re onboard.

Even one or two can save you a plumbing run.

Sealant Tape and PVC Cement

None of these parts matter without the right tools to connect them. Thread seal tape (Teflon tape) is nonnegotiable. Wrap the threads, snug it down, and it holds. No leaks. No fuss.

PVC cement does the rest. Bring the primer, too. The two-part system cleans and bonds PVC in seconds. Just be sure the can isn’t dried out. Once opened, these products can go bad without warning.

Why a Small Kit Makes a Big Difference

You don’t need a huge inventory. That’s not the goal. Just a modest kit with the essentials. Most emergency repairs are short and simple. But they only feel that way when the right part is within reach.

You’re not waiting for a marina. You’re not improvising with duct tape. You’re just fixing what needs fixing and moving on.

Stay Ready for the Unexpected

Nobody gets to pick and choose when a system fails: If you did, it would be “never.” It does seem, however, like it always happens when it’s least convenient. It might be when you’re pulling into a mooring. Or overnight in a remote anchorage. Or that one time when you’re trying to impress one of your passengers.

What matters is what happens next. A quick repair with a coupling and a clean pipe? That keeps the head working. Keeps the bilge dry. Keeps your trip on track.

That’s why seasoned cruisers don’t leave without a few spares. They don’t take up much space. But they save a lot of trouble. A simple PVC fix can keep the toilet flushing, the sink draining, or the bilge system working right. It’s a quiet kind of peace of mind, knowing you’re ready, even if nobody else ever sees what’s in the locker.

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