In plumbing, what can excessive solder indicate when working with copper connections?

When working with copper connections in plumbing, excessive solder can indicate poor joint integrity. This situation often arises when too much solder has been applied during the joint-making process. In an ideal soldering scenario, just the right amount of solder is used to form a strong and reliable joint. Excess solder can suggest that the joint has not been properly formed, leading to potential weaknesses such as leaks or structural failures over time.

Proper soldering requires skill to avoid both under-filling and over-filling the joint. A well-made joint will typically have a clean finish with an appropriate amount of solder visibly distributed around the joint without excessive build-up. Therefore, encountering excess solder is a clear warning sign that the connection may not hold up under pressure or over time, making it necessary to reassess the joining technique used.