Frequently Asked Questions

Loosen the stainless steel clamps (don't remove them), slide the coupling over the plain spigot ends of both pipes, then tighten the clamps. For most standard couplings, torque to 60 in-lbs. Pressure test before backfilling or concealing the joint.

See our Installation Instructions page for product-specific guides and videos.

Torque varies by product. Most standard couplings tighten to 60 in-lbs. High-torque band products require a higher spec — always check the installation instructions for the specific product. Some under-the-sink connectors are designed to be hand-tightened only.

A few things to try:

• Confirm the coupling is the right one for your pipe type and size (sizing is OD-based, not nominal).
• Check that pipe ends are clean and free of burrs or flaring.
• Apply a small amount of soapy water to the pipe — not the coupling. Soaping the coupling itself makes it hard to grip.
• Make sure the clamps are fully backed off.
• A gentle tap with a rubber mallet can help seat it.

Yes — standard Fernco couplings are rated for both above- and below-ground use. Always confirm against your local plumbing code. For below-ground applications, we recommend a Strong Back RC shielded coupling for added shear resistance and long-term performance.

Yes. Pipes must be properly supported on both sides of the coupling per code. Unsupported pipe can sag at the joint, creating a low spot that traps debris and causes backups.

No special tools required. Remove the old toilet (and old wax ring if present), set the FTS wax-free seal over the closet flange, and reset the toilet as you normally would.

Generally, no. Once the seal has been compressed against the flange and toilet, it shouldn't be reused. Install a new FTS any time the toilet is pulled.

Yes. Fernco offers the broadest range of flexible couplings on the market — there's a coupling to connect just about any DWV pipe material to another. For the best overall performance, we recommend a shielded coupling:

• Proflex — above-ground
• Strong Back RC — below-ground
• Standard Couplings — a flexible, code-approved option for everyday DWV repairs
• HULK — below-ground, with stainless steel rods injected directly into the body for maximum strength

Standard couplings are an elastomeric polyvinyl chloride (PVC) sleeve with stainless steel clamps — ideal for many DWV applications.

Shielded couplings add a full-coverage stainless steel band (and in the case of HULK, embedded stainless rods) that delivers superior shear strength, deflection resistance, and long-term durability. Shielded options deliver the best overall performance, especially below ground or where extra rigidity is required.

No. Fernco flexible couplings are designed for gravity-flow drain, waste, and vent (DWV) systems only. They are not rated for pressurized water supply lines.

Most Fernco couplings are rated up to 140°F intermittent. Ratings can vary by product line, so for specifications on a particular coupling, refer to the product page or cut sheet for the exact series you're using.

Maximum test pressure is 4.3 PSI (29.6 kPa). Fernco couplings are intended for gravity-flow DWV systems and are not for pressurized applications.

Standard Fernco couplings are made of elastomeric polyvinyl chloride (PVC) with 300-series stainless steel clamps. A few specialty couplings are made of rubber or neoprene depending on the application. Shielded couplings add a stainless steel shear band over the elastomer sleeve.

Fernco couplings are designed for a service life of 50+ years, or the lifetime of the piping system.

Yes. Fernco's elastomer resists a wide range of chemicals commonly found in DWV systems. For specific chemical compatibility, refer to our Acid Resistance Chart.

Effective April 7, 2026, Fernco's core repair coupling families are both AIS (American Iron and Steel) and BABA (Build America, Buy America) compliant, with every component sourced exclusively in the United States. Compliant lines include Standard Flexible Couplings (15" and below), Strong Back® 1000RC (15" and below), the full Proflex® lineup, XL Couplings, Eccentric Bushings & Couplings (15" and below), Tee & Wye Tap Saddles, Pipe Sleeves, Expansion Joints, Qwik Tees & Ells, and Plastic Socket Couplings.

See the full AIS / BABA Compliance page for the complete scope list and submittal documentation.

AIS stands for American Iron and Steel — a domestic sourcing requirement applied to certain federally funded water infrastructure projects.

BABA stands for Build America, Buy America — a broader domestic-content requirement under federal infrastructure funding. Both are commonly specified on public works and federally funded projects.

Submit a request through our AIS Compliance Letter Request form. Have your series, part number, and project information ready to speed up processing.

For most submittal packages, you'll want to include the AIS/BABA Scope List PDF, the relevant product cut sheet, and the compliance letter if your agency requires one.

Yes. Fernco couplings are tested and listed to applicable industry standards. For specific approvals — including ASTM, CSA, UPC, and IPC listings by product series — refer to our Codes / Standards page. Always confirm acceptance with your local code authority.

Yes. Fernco has manufactured in Davison, Michigan since 1964. As of April 7, 2026, our core repair coupling families are sourced with 100% U.S. components, completing our long-standing commitment to American manufacturing.

Fernco's mechanical products (couplings, connectors, seals) are manufactured articles that do not result in chemical exposure under normal use and are exempt from SDS requirements. SDS sheets for our Pow-R sealant products are available on our SDS page.

Yes, on most products. A few items — Toilet Seals, StormDrain, and select sealant products — must be ordered in full box quantities.

Standard lead time is 2–3 business days for orders shipping FedEx Ground. Larger or freight orders may vary — contact customer service for specifics.

Fernco has no general order minimum. A small number of items must be ordered in box quantities (Toilet Seals, StormDrain, select sealants).

Fernco products are sold through plumbing wholesalers, distributors, and select retailers nationwide. Use our Where to Buy tool to find a source near you.

Fernco does not sell direct. We distribute through wholesalers and retailers to keep our pro-channel partners strong. Use the Where to Buy tool to find a local source, or call customer service at 1-810-503-9000 for distributor recommendations in your area.

Dimensional drawings and product spec sheets are available on each product page in the Resources section. For high-resolution images, branded promotional materials, or co-marketing assets, contact your Fernco sales representative or reach out through Contact Us.

Call 1-810-503-9000 or email us. Customer service hours are listed on our contact page.

Use our Rep Locator to find your local Fernco sales representative.

Yes. PipePatch is part of Fernco's Infrastructure product line. Visit the PipePatch product page for product information, applications, and resources.

Open positions and the application portal are on our Careers page. You can also reach out to our Human Resources team directly.

Contact us through Contact Us or call 1-810-503-9000 and ask for the sales team. We'll connect you with the right person based on your territory and channel.