
Can you go from copper to PEX? Traditionally, connecting PEX to copper depends on the end of the pipe you 're connecting to. If working with a threaded pipe, you can screw a threaded adapter onto the end of the pipe, secure it with a wrench and connect the PEX to the other side.
Is PEX as good as copper?
We generally belive that Plumbing PEX Tubing is much better than Copper for most, if not all, plumbing systems. PEX Tubing is much more resistant to freeze-breakage than copper or rigid plastic pipe. PEX Tubing is cheaper because it takes much less labor to install. PEX Tubing is quickly becoming the industry standard.
Should I replace my copper pipes with PEX?
You can develop some problems with your copper pipes, and PEX is often a great replacement that can eliminate these problems. Keep hot water hot: PEX keeps the water warmer as it flows through the pipe so that you get hotter water on the other end.
How to replace copper pipe with PEX?
Should I Upsize When Replacing Copper with PEX?
- 65′ 1″ copper L pipe
- Five 1″ copper 90°elbows = 2.5 feet per elbow
- Total pipe length is 2.5 X 5 = 12.5′ + 65′ = 77.5′ of pipe
- 1″ copper pipe @ 15 GPM-0.057 PSI loss per foot
- 77.5′ X 0.057 = 4.4 PSI loss And here are the figures for PEX:
- 65′ 1″ PEX tubing
- Five 1″ PEX 90°elbows = 10 feet per elbow
- Total tubing length is 10 X 5 = 50′ + 65′ = 115′ of tubing
How to pipe an entire home with PEX?
PEX Usage Tips
- For the best results, use only the recommended tools for making PEX connections. ...
- Store PEX indoors and away from a sunny window since the pipe degrades in UV light.
- Use a PEX cutter to make clean end cuts that will be easier to work with.
How to connect PEX pipe to copper pipe?
How to patch a PEX line?
What is PEX plumbing?
How to cut copper pipe?
Why is my copper pipe expanding?
How long does copper pipe last?
When was copper used in plumbing?
See more

Can you attach PEX to copper?
0:231:41Connecting PEX Tubing to Copper Pipe - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou will need to use a copper fitting adapter also known as a male sweat adapter this may be theMoreYou will need to use a copper fitting adapter also known as a male sweat adapter this may be the case if your copper pipe is connected to an elbow or other type of fitting.
Should I convert copper to PEX?
Coupled with low production and shipping costs, the savings resulting from installing PEX instead of copper pipes can be significant. Better Energy Efficiency – PEX has a lower thermal conductivity rate than copper. As a result, PEX pipes can help keep hot water hotter for longer periods of time.
Can you connect PEX to copper without soldering?
0:001:17DIY how to Pex to copper without soldering - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipI'm gonna show you how we can connect PEX tubing and copper tubing the other without any kind ofMoreI'm gonna show you how we can connect PEX tubing and copper tubing the other without any kind of solar. And we're gonna use one of these snap. At things and you can buy these at your home Center. Yeah
How do you run copper to PEX?
6:2021:43PEX Pipe Installation - ALL Connections To Fittings In A ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipYou don't want to have it too close or too far apart eighth inches about right and what i like to doMoreYou don't want to have it too close or too far apart eighth inches about right and what i like to do is take a pair of needle nose. Go over that crimp ring and crimp it on tight.
How much does it cost to replace copper plumbing with PEX?
Compared to copper piping which would cost $8,000 – $10,000 to replace in a two-bathroom home, PEX would only cost on average $4,000 – $6,000 – offering significant cost-saving opportunities....Pipe MaterialCost Per FootPEX$0.50 – $2Copper$2 – $41 more row
How much does it cost to replace copper with PEX?
PEX meets building code nearly everywhere, comes with a 25-year warranty, and puts a smaller hit on your budget than copper. Replacing all of the plumbing in a 1,500 square foot, two-bathroom home with copper piping costs between $8,000 and $10,000. But using PEX would cost just $4,000 to $6,000, according to Gove.
How long do SharkBite fittings last on copper?
SharkBite fittings last a long time. In fact, SharkBite warrants the fittings for 25 years when used with SharkBite tubing.
Can you connect PEX to copper with SharkBite?
SharkBite brass push-to-connect fittings are compatible with PEX, Copper, CPVC, PE-RT and SDR-9 HDPE pipe. SharkBite fittings come with a PEX stiffener pre-loaded into the fitting for PEX, PE-RT and SDR-9 HDPE. The PEX stiffener does not need to be removed for Copper or CPVC applications.
Where is PEX not allowed?
PEX can't be installed in high heat areas. 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.
What is wrong with PEX plumbing?
PEX piping has a maximum bend radius, which can lead to stress on the pipe caused by improper installation. In addition, extreme bends and kinks place a very high local stress on the wall of the pipe, making it more susceptible to oxidative degradation.PEX Pipe Problems & Failures - Plastic Expert Grouphttps://www.plasticexpert.com › pex-failureshttps://www.plasticexpert.com › pex-failuresSearch for: What is wrong with PEX plumbing?
Is PEX safe for drinking water?
There are no health risks associated with drinking water from PEX pipes. A few types of PEX-pipe may cause prolonged undesirable taste and odour if the water remains in pipes over time.Nov 9, 2011Drinking water from plastic pipes: Is it harmful? - ScienceDailyhttps://www.sciencedaily.com › releases › 2011/11https://www.sciencedaily.com › releases › 2011/11Search for: Is PEX safe for drinking water?
How long will PEX last?
30 to 50 yearsBenefits of Copper Pipes While you can expect PEX to last for 30 to 50 years, copper piping will outdo it by about two decades, with a typical lifespan of 50 to 70 years. Copper is a more durable option that isn't susceptible to rodents or sunlight. These pipes can easily handle water pressure of up to 1,000 psi.PEX vs. Copper: Which Is Better for Your Home? - Energy Diagnosticshttps://energydiagnosticsinc.com › blog › pex-vs-copper-...https://energydiagnosticsinc.com › blog › pex-vs-copper-...Search for: How long will PEX last?
Why connect copper to PEX?
Today, connecting copper to PEX is common in new construction, remodeling and repair because of PEX’s flexibility, affordability and durability in extreme temperatures.
How long does it take to install Sharkbite copper to PEX?
Simplify your process by cleanly installing a SharkBite copper to PEX fitting in about 3 seconds. When installed properly, the connection won’t fail, and you won’t have to use glue, special tools or open flames.
How to connect sharkbite to copper?
Simply cut your copper pipe, mark the proper insertion depth and push the coupling completely onto the pipe. Repeat this process for the PEX end and your connection is complete.
Why is PEX pipe flexible?
PEX pipe's flexibility helps it bend around corners easily, reducing the number of connection points needed. This lowers project costs for plumbers and minimizes failure points for the system.
What type of pipe is used for plumbing?
Decades ago, copper was the most widely used pipe type for many plumbing applications. In fact, if you were a plumber before the year 2000, you may have used copper to replace hazardous galvanized pipe, which is known to corrode.
Is Sharkbite PEX-B a good piping material?
PEX’s durability makes it more reliable for homeowners. Because it isn’t a rigid pipe, it will expand in freezing conditions instead of cracking, reducing leaks and water damage. It’s also immune to corrosion and mineral build-up, and it’s not affected by electrolysis, which can cause small pinhole leaks in copper piping. SharkBite PEX-B in particular offers the highest-rated chlorine resistance and six-month UV resistance to prevent premature failure.
Does a o-ring seal corrode copper?
Additionally, this fitting will not corrode copper, and an internal o-ring seal helps to make a watertight connection. This fitting can be installed in wet lines, behind-the-wall and underground and is protected by a 25-year warranty.
What is a copper to PEX adapter?
Traditional copper-to-PEX adapter. Because these adapters rely on soldering to establish connections with copper (a crimping tool is typically used for the PEX side ), they introduce the need for consumables as well as hot work.
What is a ProPress copper to PEX fitting?
ProPress copper to PEX fittings are needed w hen installers are adding new supply lines to a home or business. Traditionally, making these connections involves the use of sweat adapters.
Can you bend a PEX pipe?
In addition, going from ProPress copper to PEX fittings, the PEX plumbing systems can bend around corners with each change of direction, instead of having to add a connection. This reduces materials and can also improve water flow for better performance.
Can you use sharkbite to join tubing?
If you want to make this task really easy, you can use a sharkbite. Its a connector than can join different tubing without the need for soldering. While expensive for a connector, ~$5, it will save you the hassle of sweating pipes, especially if they are in a hard to reach area.
Can you use copper tubing over PEX?
Yes you can do that (it's the standard way of converting to/from copper), and it shouldn't cause any troubles (read Why would you use copper over CPVC or PEX? and Does Pex tubing have any advantages over copper? for some comparisons).
Can you use PEX elbow adapter on copper pipe?
Of note: you can get the male adapters that fit on the outside of copper pipe, and also that fit on the inside of copper fittings (like a street elbow). Can be handy sometimes if you're working in a tight space, or were going to immediately make a turn anyways (since you're soldering the fitting anyways, it's barely any extra work to do an elbow+adapter, and saves a PEX elbow and couple of crimp rings).
How to connect PEX to copper pipe?
Push the other end of the fitting onto the end of the copper tubing. Snap the open end of the push-fit fitting all the way onto the open end of the copper tubing until the copper pipe is all the way inside. The PEX and copper are now connected and you don’t need to do anything else.
How to attach PEX tubing to copper?
Insert the end of the PEX over the end of the fitting. Slide the end of the PEX tubing that has the crimp ring or cinch clamp on it over the end of the fitting that you screwed onto the copper tubing. Push it on as far as it will go.
How to crimp PEX tubing?
Use the crimp ring or cinch clamp tool to compress the ring around the tubing. Put the crimp ring tool over the outside of the ring and squeeze the handles to crimp it around the PEX if you used a crimp ring fitting. Put the end of the cinch clamp tool over the tab of the clamp and squeeze the handles to tighten it if you used a cinch clamp fitting.
How to connect PEX tubing to PEX?
1. Use crimp ring or cinch clamp fittings for a cheap way to connect the tubing. Crimp ring and cinch clamp fittings both consist of a band of metal that slips over the PEX tubing. You then compress the ring with either a crimp ring tool or a cinch clamp tool to secure the tubing to the fitting.
What is PEX tubing?
PEX tubing (made from high-density polyethylene) has become the go-to tubing for plumbing repairs and replacements due to it’s cheaper cost, durability, and flexibility . When you want to install some new PEX tubing, chances are you will want to connect the PEX to some old copper tubing rather than replacing everything.
What is a good fitting for copper tubing?
Tip: Push-fit fittings are also a good option if your copper tubing doesn’t already have a threaded fitting at the end because they just push on to make the connection.
How much does a PEX push fit cost?
Push-fit fittings cost at least $5 USD each.
How to connect PEX to copper?
The traditional way of connecting PEX to copper involves using a threaded sweat adapter on the copper side (to connect with the PEX fitting) and soldering to create a watertight seal. Both the copper pipe and its fitting are first cleaned with a fine-bristle steel brush and then coated with flux (like this flux paste from Utility) to help the solder adhere evenly. Then, the seam where the fitting meets the copper pipe is heated with a flame torch. Once the metal is very hot, a small rod of solder—lead-free if these pipes will carry drinking water—is touched to the seam. The heat from the metal melts the solder and draws it into the seam, where it cools and creates a seal.
What is PEX pipe?
Today, with the help of cross-link ed polyethylene (PEX) pipe, plumbing work has become more efficient for professionals and much more accessible for do-it-yourselfers. These flexible red and blue pipes can bend in nearly any direction to funnel hot and cold water, respectively, where it needs to go.
How many fittings are needed for a female and male connection?
Every connection must have one male fitting and one female fitting in order for the two fittings to attach. (A male fitting features protruding threads which twist into the threaded opening of a female fitting.)
How is copper pipe cleaned?
Both the copper pipe and its fitting are first cleaned with a fine-bristle steel brush and then coated with flux (like this flux paste from Utility) to help the solder adhere evenly. Then, the seam where the fitting meets the copper pipe is heated with a flame torch.
How does solder work in pipes?
Once the metal is very hot, a small rod of solder—lead-free if these pipes will carry drinking water—is touched to the seam. The heat from the metal melts the solder and draws it into the seam, where it cools and creates a seal.
Do PEX fittings have to match?
The sizes of the threaded ends must match in order for the PEX fitting to twist onto the copper pipe fitting.
Do you need glue to attach PEX fittings?
When you attach the second half to copper or PVC, some fittings will require wielding a torch or applying glue in a well-ventilated area (more on that in the next sections below). But PEX connections don’t always need to be so complicated. Certain types of fittings involve neither flames nor fumes—not even special tools—and this ease of use makes for “a safer job if you don’t have the experience and equipment a pro has,” O’Brian says.
How to connect PEX pipe to copper pipe?
Force one end of a push-fit straight connector onto one of the cut ends of the copper pipe. Make sure the pipe is fully seated into the bottom of the connector, and the connector reaches the depth marking. Insert one end of the PEX tubing into the other opening on the straight connector, pushing it all the way to the depth line.
How to patch a PEX line?
This is done by simply cutting into the PEX line with a PEX tubing cutter, then using a push-fit tee-fitting to patch into the line. Two outlets on the tee connect to the PEX line, while the third outlet feeds the supply line running to the fixture.
What is PEX plumbing?
But copper's use has gradually faded, due to the introduction of PEX plumbing tubing. PEX is made of cross-linked polyethylene, a form of flexible plastic tubing with cross-linked molecules that create great durability and strength.
How to cut copper pipe?
Using a copper tubing cutter, cut through the copper pipe at both ends of the section to be replaced. A mini tubing cutter is a convenient tool to use in tight quarters.
Why is my copper pipe expanding?
This is due to pinhole leaks in the copper slowly dripping on the drywall, causing it to expand . You see it: If you open a wall or ceiling for some purpose, such as adding insulation, you may notice that copper pipes in the wall or floor cavity have become green, crusty, and corroded.
How long does copper pipe last?
Identifying Bad Copper Pipe. Copper pipes properly installed have a very long life (50 years or more), but they do go bad eventually. Original copper pipes may be nearing the end of their useful lifespan, but it's not always easy to recognize when they are begging for replacement.
When was copper used in plumbing?
Copper was the plumbing pipe of choice from the 1950s until 2000 and was widely used both in new construction and to replace the galvanized steel water supply pipes that had been the standard into the 1950s.
