What is the best PEX tubing brand?
- Directly From The Famous Pex Factory
- EFIELD PEX-b Tubing for Potable Water and Hot Water Applications
- Efield Pex Pipe is NSF Certified
- PEX-B Combo – 3/4″ 75ft Blue Pex + 75ft Red PEX 150ft in Total With A Pex Pipe Cutter
What type of PEX is best?
PEX A
- It has the highest flexibility of all PEX types
- Expansion-style fitting reduces the risk of flow restriction
- Kinks can be eliminated using a heat gun
- Withstands well in extremely cold temperatures because it is more resistant to burst pressure
- Easy to work with
What are the standard sizes for PEX tubing?
PEX Diameter PEX tubes range in diameter from 3/8-inch to 1-inch for residential applications. For adequate water flow, it's a good idea to install 1/2-inch or 3/4-inch PEX for your main lines. The standard when replacing old water supply lines with PEX is to use the same size.
What's the difference between CPVC and Pex?
PVC, CPVC and PEX Explained
- PVC - Polyvinyl Chloride. ...
- CPVC - Chlorinated Poly (Vinyl Chloride) CPVC (chlorinated poly (vinyl chloride) is a strong and rigid thermoplastic material that is used for hot and cold potable water applications in residential ...
- PEX - Cross-linked Polyethylene. ...
Is all PEX pipe the same?
That's because by and large, all PEX pipes are very similar. They must all meet the same performance standards. There are some requirements that apply to all PEX pipe used for commercial and residential plumbing applications. Others apply to PEX used in specific systems or applications.
How many types of PEX tubing are there?
Types of PEX Both types of tubing come in three colors—red, white, and blue—in diameters ranging from 1/4-inch to 3 inches. For indoor plumbing, the most common PEX tubing is one half-inch, which boasts a higher flow rate than copper pipe of the same size.
Is type A or B PEX better?
PEX A vs PEX B: Burst Pressure And when pipes freeze, they can burst. PEX A and PEX B respond to this risk differently. Bottom line, PEX A is more resistant to burst pressure than PEX B.
Which PEX tubing is best?
Choose the tubing best suited to your needs:PEX-A is manufactured using peroxide. This type of PEX is the most flexible of the three types and is suitable for use in all home water-supply plumbing needs. ... PEX-B is manufactured using a moisture-cure method. ... PEX-C is manufactured via an irradiation method.
What is better PEX crimp or SharkBite?
For situations where you are looking to implement a temporary fix, Sharkbite is the better choice. Sharkbite is also great in situations where crimping is not possible due to tight spaces. For situations where you are looking for a permanent solution, a crimp is a better choice due to their long-term reliability.
Which is better PEX clamp or crimp?
Pinch Clamp Tools Work Better in Tight Spaces Especially when your PEX is pressed up against a wall—or there is just otherwise very little wiggle room to work—crimp tools can become a much bigger hassle. The larger jaw of the tool means you need ample room behind your PEX to be able to make a proper connection.
Can I use blue PEX for hot water?
Color-Coded: Red PEX pipes can be used for hot water supply lines, blue PEX for cold water supply, and white for either hot or cold. These colors are just for your convenience. Plumbing code does not require the pipe color to match the type of water supply.
Does SharkBite work with PEX A?
SharkBite push-to-connect fittings are compatible with a variety of pipe types including PEX, copper, CPVC, PE-RT and SDR-9 HDPE.
Can I use crimp rings on PEX A?
Crimp fittings are compatible with all types of PEX tubing, except for PEX-AL-PEX. Crimp fittings are preferred for many applications since they are widely available and are the most affordable.
How can you tell PEX-B from PEX?
The second way is to identify the style of fittings. PEX-B will have metal rings — either cramp or clamp — whereas the PEX-A uses an expansion ring made out of PEX or a similar material.
Where should you not use PEX?
You can't install PEX in high heat areas like near recessed lighting. This also means you can't connect PEX directly to a hot water heater, but you can use a connecting material to do this. PEX is semi-permeable, which means liquid can enter the pipe. When it comes to safety, PEX isn't antibacterial.
How long does PEX piping last?
50 yearsPEX: Due to its flexibility and durability, PEX piping should last at least 50 years. PVC / CPVC: Under typical conditions, these pipes should last up to 100 years. Keep in mind that PVC pipes are often used for drainage because extreme heat can damage them.
Can Blue PEX be used for hot water?
Color-Coded: Red PEX pipes can be used for hot water supply lines, blue PEX for cold water supply, and white for either hot or cold. These colors are just for your convenience. Plumbing code does not require the pipe color to match the type of water supply.
Are PEX-A and PEX B fittings the same?
Flexibility - PEX-A is the most flexible, allowing for it to be fastened by cold expansion, which allows the end to be fluted prior to inserting the fitting. PEX B is not expandable and you should never expand the end of a PEX-B pipe. Kink-Resistance - PEX-A has the greatest resistance, PEX-B the lowest.
What is better crimp or cinch?
When it comes to which method is better between crimping and cinching, it all comes down to personal preference and workload. If you are looking for a fast and more secure connection that will stand the test of time, crimp tools are your better option.
What type of PEX is SharkBite?
Potable PEX-A Cross-linked polyethylene pipe approved for use in residential and commercial installations.
What is PEX tubing made of?
PEX has proven to be a boon in the plumbing world. It is made from High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) and requires careful handling and managing. PEX tubing is categorized into different varieties/types, depending on its manufacturing or built-up.
What are the different types of plumbing?
The different types of plumbing include – PEX-a, PEX-b, PEX-c, and PEX-AL-PEX. PEX-a type. The PEX tubing is manufactured by ‘Engel Method,’ in which the cross-linking of the molecules is done on a very high-temperature. It is the supplest type of tubing that can easily bear high-pressure and can easily twist in any direction.
Why is PEX pipe so fast?
The piping of PEX is more dead set against chemicals, extreme temperatures, corrosion and deformation and it is also faster and easier to install. If playback doesn't begin shortly, try restarting your device.
How is PEX C made?
PEX-c is manufactured by electron beam process or Electronic Irradiation. The cross-linking of pipes is completed underneath the crystal melting point by using an electronic beam on the tube.
Is PEX piping harmful?
Due to its ecological and clean liness, it is no longer harmful as it does not involve any chemicals . PEX-AL-PEX. The piping is made of a layer of aluminum that is placed between two PEX layers. The aluminum layer plays the role of an oxygen barricade that suspends oxygen molecules to mix in the water that is flowing from the pipes.
Is HDPE hard wearing?
However, the type of piping is not very supple and does not twist in many directions, but it is quite hard-wearing and has the knack to maintain its shape after getting heated.
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How is PEX A made?
PEX-A is created by introducing peroxide into the HDPE before it’s extruded. Per the ASTM Standard F876, PEX-A must be crosslinked to 70% in order to meet the standard for burst pressure.
Is Viega PureFlow PEX-B tubing a good choice?
In addition, PureFlow has the highest chlorine and oxidative resistance of the PEX types, making it the more reliable choice for potable water, radiant heating and other applications, especially when recirculation of domestic hot water is required. Viega PureFlow PEX is also extremely durable, making it an ideal choice for high-traffic construction areas.
What are the different types of PEX?
There are three common types of PEX: PEX-A, PEX-B and PEX-C. There is a widespread misperception that the letters refer to grades of quality and that PEX-A is better than PEX-B which is superior to PEX-C. Not true.
Is PEX the same as polyethylene?
Of course, that doesn’t mean all types of PEX are identical. Each has its own characteristics. All PEX is a polyethylene material which has undergone a change in molecular structure using a chemical or physical process to chemically link the polymer chains. Crosslinking of polyethylene improves PEX properties such as temperature, strength, flexibility etc.
What is PEX a layer of?
Also known as PEX-AL-PEX, aluminum barrier PEX is three-layer tubing that consists of a layer of PEX, a layer of aluminum, and another layer of PEX. Its primary benefit is that once bent, PEX-AL-PEX holds its shape and doesn’t need to be tied down every few feet.
What type of fittings are used for PEX tubing?
Once you’ve determined which type of PEX tubing you need, you will need to choose the fittings. The easiest to use are brass push-fit fittings, which simply “bite” into the tubing. Other types of fittings used with PEX are crimp, clamp, press and compression, any of which are less expensive but require specialized tools.
How many different types of PEX are there?
More than 20 different types of PEX are on the market, each suited to a specific plumbing or heating job, so knowing which PEX product to pick for your project is important. Photo: istockphoto.com.
What is PEX B?
PEX-B is slightly less flexible and less freeze-resistant. Both types of tubing come in three colors—red, white, and blue—in diameters ranging from 1/4-inch to 3 inches. For indoor plumbing, the most common PEX tubing is one half-inch, which boasts a higher flow rate than copper pipe of the same size. For outdoor applications, “sleeved” versions of ...
What is the difference between PEX and PEX-B?
PEX-A, which has the most flexible tubing and best freeze- and kink resistance, is ideal for use with kitchen and bath fixtures. PEX-B is slightly less flexible and less freeze-resistant.
What size oxygen barrier is used for baseboard?
The 1/2-inch size is most commonly used; 3/8-, 5/8- and 3/4-inch sizes are also available.
What is PEX tubing?
Polyethylene cross-linked tubing, better known as PEX, is a fine addition to the industrious do-it-yourself plumber’s arsenal. Inexpensive to buy and surprisingly versatile, PEX is also relatively easy to install.
What is PEX B tubing?
PEX-B. This type of PEX tubing is produced via the "Silane" or "Moisture Cure" method of cross-linking. PEX-B is manufactured by a large number of companies and thus is one of the most commonly available. PEX-B is known for being very resistant to chlorine and oxidation, and has the highest bursting pressure.
What is PEX grade?
Rather, these “grades” refer to the way that the PEX was manufactured.
What is the most expensive PEX tubing?
As such, PEX-A is the most expensive grade of PEX tubing.
What are the different grades of PEX tubing?
In addition to being made in multiple different colors (generally red, white, blue, and gray), PEX tubing is also made in three common grades. It’s important for everyone in the plumbing or radiant heat flooring business to be familiar with these grades, so that they can respond to clients if and when they have questions about which pipe is being ...
What tool is used to expand a PEX fitting?
Expansion fittings can only be installed with a PEX expansion tool. This tool is used to expand the tubing until it has reached the point in which a fitting will properly be placed and secured within the tubing. The tubing then retracts making a secure connection around the fitting.
What type of fitting is used for PEX?
Another type of fitting commonly used for PEX connections is compression type. This fitting can be connected to all types of PEX tubing including PEX-Al-PEX. This fitting utilizes the compression method to connect the PEX through an O-ring, and can be installed without using any PEX tools.
What is push fit fitting?
The push-fit fitting are designed to be used without any tools. They come equipped with a built in mechanism that allows the PEX tubing to be pushed into the fitting to make a tight and secure connection. These fittings are compatible with all types of PEX and usually come in brass or poly.
What is a PEX crimp fitting?
Poly PEX Fittings - The other type of crimp style fitting is a poly (plastic) type fitting. This fitting is manufactured from polysulfone, and can be connected to all types of PEX tubing. Poly crimp fitting meet the F2159 standard set by the ASTM, and can be connected to PEX through a crimp or clamp (cinch) style connection.
How to install compression PEX fittings?
Compression PEX fittings are installed by sliding the brass compression nut over the tubing followed by the compression sleeve (O-ring). The next step is connecting to the fitting and tightening your compression nut by hand at first, then finishing with a wrench or nut driver.
What is a brass PEX fitting?
Brass PEX Fittings - There are two major types of crimp style fittings. One of them is a brass type, which is the most commonly used PEX fitting. This fitting is compatible with all types of PEX tubing and meets the F1807 standard set by the ASTM. It can be connected to the PEX tubing either through a PEX crimp tool, or a PEX clamp- tool (ASTM F2098) also known as a cinch tool.
How does a PEX crimp fit?
Crimp fitting are installed with a PEX crimp tool by causing a 360 degree compression while the crimp ring is properly positioned on the tubing.
What is PEX Al-Pex?
The most expensive of the bunch, PEX-AL-PEX, also known as aluminum-barrier PEX, features a special construction—namely, an aluminum layer that goes a long way to help the tubing keep its shape once bent. That means PEX-AL-PEX eliminates the need for the installer to employ tie-downs every few feet.
What is the strongest flex?
PEX-A. The strongest, most durable, and most flexible option, PEX-A boasts the unique ability to recover from kinks. Normally, if a section of tubing were to become damaged or deformed, you’d have no choice but to remove and replace it. But with PEX-A you can use a heat gun to restore it to its original state.
What is PEX tubing?
Today, many pros (and do-it-yourselfers) prefer to use tubing made of cross-linked polyethylene, or PEX. In addition to being cheaper than copper, PEX boasts the added advantage of being bendable. That means, compared to straight, rigid copper, PEX requires fewer connections and fittings, enabling installers to get the job done more quickly ...
Why is PEX tubing so poorly understood?
In part, that’s because cutting, crimping, and clamping the material requires specialty tools to which many are unfamiliar. However, according to O’Brian, those who are new to PEX often get tripped up, not when installing the tubing, but rather when choosing which type to install.
Is PEX B or C interchangeable?
“PEX-B and PEX-C are pretty interchangeable, ” O’Brian says. If there’s a practical difference between the two, it’s their relative hardness levels. “PEX-C is the softer of the two,” O’Brian continues, and for that reason, “it’s more vulnerable to kinks.” On the plus side: Because a different manufacturing process goes into PEX-C, it typically costs less than PEX-B. If you’re taking on a demanding project, though, bear in mind that to an extent, “you get what you pay for,” O’Brian says.
Can PEX pipes freeze?
Even better: PEX stands up admirably well to freezing temperatures, unlike metal pipes that freeze and in severe cases, burst open. In other words, “for many plumbing applications, you can’t do any better than PEX,” says Daniel O’Brian, a technical specialist with leading online vendor SupplyHouse.com.
Does PEX corrode?
Advertisement. Remember that experts don’t recommend PEX for any use that would leave the tubing exposed to sunlight.
What type of fittings are used for PEX?
Hundreds of types of fittings, usually brass, are available for connecting PEX to existing copper or steel pipes, and for making connections to fixtures. Fittings are also available for connecting pipes of different sizes. The following five methods are used for making the connections watertight. Photo: amazon.com.
What is PEX tubing?
Choose the tubing best suited to your needs: PEX-A is manufactured using peroxide. This type of PEX is the most flexible of the three types and is suitable for use in all home water-supply plumbing needs.
What color is PEX?
Water flows silently through PEX, eliminating the “water hammer” noise associated with metal piping. Color-coding (red and blue) make it simple to distinguish hot and cold supply lines. PEX can be connected to existing metal supply lines with the correct fittings.
What is the advantage of PEX pipe?
PEX has a distinct advantage over these materials because of its flexibility, which allows one end of PEX pipe to connect to a PEX manifold (the main water control system) and then wind through walls and floors—uninterrupted—all the way to an individual fixture.
What type of PEX pipe is used for hot water?
Blue PEX pipe carries cold water. White PEX pipe can be used for either hot or cold water. Gray PEX pipe, like white, can be used for either hot or cold water (although not all DIY centers carry gray).
How long is a PEX pipe?
PEX is available in a variety of lengths, from short 10-foot pieces (for small repairs) to rolls over 500 feet long, which are used to install a home’s entire water supply system. PEX pipe ranges from 3/8- to 1-inch in diameter and its color-coding makes it a snap to identify what a specific pipe is used for. Although there are three types of PEX (see Label Lingo, below), the different colors don’t connote the distinctions; they simply make it easy for the installer to identify which lines carry hot water and which carry cold.
What is PEX pipe?
Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX), a type of flexible plastic, is currently replacing traditional copper and galvanized steel as water supply lines in both new construction and remodeling projects. You’ve probably seen rolls of blue and red PEX pipe in the plumbing aisle of your local home improvement store, but might not know that this colorful tubing now makes it possible for enthusiastic DIYers to replace their own leaky water lines instead of calling a pro. Read on to learn more about PEX—what it is, where it can be used, and all the pros and cons of this popular plumbing material.
What is a Viega PEX press?
Viega PEX Press fittings are installed using a PEX press tool and have press sleeves already pre-installed onto the fitting for ease of installation. They work with all Viega PEX tubing (including FostaPEX), as well as all other brands and types (A, B, C).
What type of tubing is used for Watts?
Watts and Uponor press fittings are designed for use only with PEX-AL-PEX tubing (any brand).
Can expansion style fittings be used with PEX tubing?
Expansion style fittings can be used only with PEX-A tubing and are not compatible with other PEX tubing types.