Copper is used for the pipes that supply water and gas in your home.

Copper piping can easily be bent into shape and sections of pipe can be joined together either by soldering or with push-fit and press fittings.

Taps are made of brass, which is an alloy of copper (a combination of copper and zinc).

Brass is harder and stronger than pure copper, so it wears well. Sometimes the taps are plated (with chromium or gold) so you can’t see the brass.

Brass picture wire has been used for centuries. The wire is flexible, strong and attractive.

Brass contacts are hidden inside all electrical fittings. Brass is an alloy of copper and zinc.

In fact, over half the copper produced is used in the electrical industry.

The pins of a plug are made of brass.

This is because it is hard, strong, conducts electricity well and makes good electrical contact which lasts a long time.

Brass is used to make the caps for high quality light bulbs.

This is because it can be shaped easily, it doesn’t corrode and it maintains good electrical contact.

Copper wires are used in the motor windings of equipment like vacuum cleaners.

Also, brass wire forms part of the electrical system operating the cord retraction mechanism.

Copper alloys are used in the wiring and the electronics inside telephones and other electrical equipment.

The telephone wires that connect to your home are also made of copper, because it conducts electricity well.

Copper is ideal for making cooking pans, as it is strong, it conducts heat well, and it does not corrode.

Copper is also hygienic for use in the kitchen (e.g. on work surfaces), because it restricts the spread of micro–organisms.

Brass makes very attractive door fittings, especially as it is gold coloured and resistant to corrosion.

Because brass is strong and resists wear, it is an ideal material for making locks and keys.

Brass can easily be used to make decorative items such as lamps.

This is because it is ductile – that means it can be shaped easily – and has a good surface finish.

Many parts of clocks are often made of brass.

Brass is strong, resists wear and can be cut and formed easily to make precision parts.

Coins are made from alloys of copper; copper coins have been around for thousands of years.

Copper is used because it is anti-bacterial, has a long life, resists corrosion, looks like gold and is recyclable. It also has the correct electrical conductivity to be used in vending machines.

Computers have copper wiring and copper connections in their circuit boards. There are also transformers and fan motors with copper wires.

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Copper provides a light, durable, maintenance free roofing system which is naturally good looking, long lasting and fully recyclable.

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One possible material for gutters is copper. It is light, durable, maintenance free and fully recyclable.

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Hot water cylinders are made from copper due to its excellent resistance to corrosion and its ductility.

Electrical flex has copper wires to conduct the electric current. The wires are braided so that the cable can bend without cracking.

The electrical cables in the wall are made from thick pieces of copper wire. They don't have to be as flexible but must carry large currents without overheating.

Copper in the home
Roll your cursor over anything in the house that you think might be made of copper. There are 18 to find.