CPVC: (AKA: Chlorinated Poly Vinyl Chloride) is a system that has piping available from 3/8" though 1-1/4". This piping system is based on glue on, or more technically "solvent welded" fittings and joints. The piping is available in nominal lengths between 8 to 16 ft and is normally ivory color in appearance. Even though the fittings and parts look similar to regular white PVC, the two systems are not compatible. PVC is not designed for domestic water use and uses a different system to size the piping. CPVC is based on the same outside diameter as traditional copper piping and utilizes the ivory color to help distinguish it from regular PVC piping. It is also specially rated to work well with hot water applications.