Is flexible condensate pipework a bodge?

[MJNewton]

I am renovating/redesigning our utility room and as part of this will need to be rerouting the condensate pipework for the boiler. It is currently piped with a couple of metres of 25mm rigid pipe with a few right-angle solvent-weld bends and terminates into an internal connection to one of the soil pipes. I am considering using flexible pipe for its replacement, such as that offered by McAlpine:

 

 

 

Not only would this be quicker and easier for the immediate task in hand but would likely also give greater flexibility (no pun intended) for if/when we move (via replacement) the position of the boiler at a later date.

 

The thought has crossed my mind though: is this sort of pipe something of a bodge, in perhaps the same way that flexible toilet connectors or other waste pipes are commonly considered to be and really only intended for 'problematic' installations (or indeed problematic tradesmen/DIYers!)?

 

I would of course ensure it was well supported and run with a constantly downward trajectory but it's the corrugations and how this would cope with any sediment that might be emitted from the boiler over time that are of concern, along with whatever else I haven't thought of!

Edited 7 hours ago by MJNewton

[SimonD]

4 minutes ago, MJNewton said:

I am renovating/restructuring our utility room and as part of this will need to be rerouting the condensate pipework for the boiler. It is currently piped with a couple of metres of 25mm rigid pipe with a few right-angle solvent-weld bends and terminates into an internal connection to one of the soil pipes. I am considering using flexible pipe for its replacement, such as that offered by McAlpine:

 

 

 

Not only would this be quicker and easier for the immediate task in hand but would likely also give greater flexibility (no pun intended) for if/when we move (via replacement) the position of the boiler at a later date.

 

The thought has crossed my mind though: is this sort of pipe something of a bodge, in perhaps the same way that flexible toilet connectors or other waste pipes are commonly considered to be and really only intended for 'problematic' installations (or indeed problematic tradesmen/DIYers!)?

 

No, not a bodge. I always have a pack with me when I install a boiler. Sometimes I use it, sometimes not. Just depends on the particular situation. Viessmann actually supply a grey flexible condensate pipe wtih their boilers and these have combined condensate and prv drain.

 

I keep on coming across installers, including for heat pumps that still turn up their noses at anything other than copper, saying plastic/composite pipe is a bodge. But of course it depends on where and how - plastic/mlcp as a single run joint free through a house - yes please. Just like with these condensate packs with 3m of hose which can get you out of a lot of pinches. Just make sure you clip it properly.

[MJNewton]

That's good to hear - thanks Simon.