Straightening Vinyl Tubing

I bought some 1" ID and 1.25" ID braided PVC (vinyl) tubing and as always, it was rolled and the tube was somewhat flattened out. I usually use boiling water to heat it so that it goes back to it's natural shape, but I didn't really want to do that and risk getting burned with this bigger stuff. Instead, I put it in the car today for a couple hours with the windows up and in the sun to warm it up. It worked like a charm, so I thought I would share the tip. Of course, this may not work as well when the weather finally cools down!

 

I've used a hair dryer before. It works, but takes awhile. The hot car sounds a lot easier.

 

That's an awesome idea

 

Thanks for the tip!

 

Thanks for the tip, that will come in handy soon for me. Just out of curiosity, where did you get the 1.25" ID tubing and how much did it cost? I need to pick some up for my new tank.

 

I got the 1.25" from McMaster Carr for $3.22 per foot. It is listed as: High-Pressure 3-A Sanitary Clear PVC Tubing. It Is food grade and they have at least one lower grade that would cost less and work just as well.

 

This should be posted in the Q&A section so that it is easy to find and preserved.