Sprinkler Backflow assembly - Replacing PVC with Copper

[insearchofanswers]

The backflow preventer has a crack so needs replacing. But I'm also considering re-doing the whole pipe assembly with copper pipes. It's a 1 inch 800M4 FR backflow preventer by watts.com.

- Is replacing this with copper pipes a good idea? I know it'll cost more but it'd add to aesthetics of the house since this is in front of the house.
- I was looking at press fittings but gievn the tight length, I don't think press fittings will work. E.g., the elbow connector to main supply line would need a elbow + some pipe length for a male NPT press fitting - which is simply not there. Same with the male NPT from the backflow outlet to sprinkler line. Am I correct?
- I'm thinking about adding a copper union at both ends of BF preventer so in future, replacing it wouldn't require cutting and resoldering/pressing. Thoughts?

I'm a novice at all this so please excuse any inaccuracies in language/terminology. Let me know if there's a better way to tackle this.

P.S. - I also considered doing this with galvanized steel which would simply the process a lot (no soldering/pressing, readyamde fittings like threaded elbows etc but I don't think it's a good look or idea coz their pressure ratings are less?)

 

[Fitter30]

Galvanize has a working pressure of 150lbs. A split in a brass assembly usually from a freeze. Would use pvc unions. Buy one glue and one screwed then use one piece of each then the screwed part with go into the valve with either a brass or galvanize nipples. Repipe it from where the female screwed fitting coming out of the wall so the backflow testing ports can be used. Don't know how high the backflow needs to be off the ground in PA for code. Backflow looks like a vacuum breaker it might be not up to code. Each state and county can be different. In Missouri has to be a rpz backflow.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[insearchofanswers]

Galvanize has a working pressure of 150lbs. A split in a brass assembly usually from a freeze. Would use pvc unions. Buy one glue and one screwed then use one piece of each then the screwed part with go into the valve with either a brass or galvanize nipples. Repipe it from where the female screwed fitting coming out of the wall so the backflow testing ports can be used. Don't know how high the backflow needs to be off the ground in PA for code. Backflow looks like a vacuum breaker it might be not up to code. Each state and county can be different. In Missouri has to be a rpz backflow.

I just called the township and they told me what I have is as per code.

So yo don't recommend swapping it out with copper pipes, fittings rather just fix the BF preventer and use PVC connections - that would be quick and simple for sure.