What is the purpose of using expansion fittings in PVC installations?

The purpose of using expansion fittings in PVC installations is to allow for thermal expansion. PVC, like many materials, expands and contracts in response to temperature changes. When PVC piping is heated, it can expand significantly; without appropriate allowances for this movement, the pipes might warp, bend, or even break under stress. Expansion fittings are specifically designed to accommodate these changes in size due to temperature fluctuations, ensuring the integrity of the installation and preventing potential damage.

This is essential in maintaining the longevity and functionality of the piping system in various environmental conditions. While the other options, such as cost reduction, aesthetic appeal, and enhanced insulation properties, may relate to aspects of installation, they do not encompass the crucial role that expansion fittings play in managing the physical characteristics of PVC materials under temperature variations.