Advantages of selecting PEX tubing:
- PEX is safe and easy to install. ...
- PEX can be connected to existing copper and galvanized steel water supply lines with the use of fittings—small pieces that link the two types of plumbing together.
- Due to its flexibility less fittings are needed, unlike metal piping which cannot bend.
- PEX is more resistant to cracking due to freezing thanks to its ability to expand.
What is the best way to connect PEX to copper?
0:091:41Connecting PEX Tubing to Copper Pipe - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe fastest and easiest way to connect PEX directly to copper pipe is by using sharkbite connectionsMoreThe fastest and easiest way to connect PEX directly to copper pipe is by using sharkbite connections. These connections require no tools and no soldering.
Can you connect PEX to copper with SharkBite?
SharkBite brass push-to-connect fittings are compatible with PEX, copper, CPVC and HDPE pipe. They come with a PEX stiffener pre-loaded into the fitting for PEX and HDPE, and the stiffener doesn't need to be removed for copper or CPVC applications.
Can you transition from copper to PEX?
0:031:04How to Transition from Copper to PEX - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipUsing a female sweat adapter is a great way to transition from copper to PEX. Here's how use a wireMoreUsing a female sweat adapter is a great way to transition from copper to PEX. Here's how use a wire brush or abrasive cloth to clean the inside of the fitting and the outside of the copper tube where
Do plumbers prefer PEX or copper?
Though copper and other plastic pipes have been around for decades, PEX — cross-linked polyethylene — has offered a more reliable plumbing solution in the U.S. for over 35 years.
What is the life expectancy of a SharkBite fitting?
How long do SharkBite fittings last? SharkBite fittings last a long time. In fact, SharkBite warrants the fittings for 25 years when used with SharkBite tubing.
How do you go from copper to PEX without soldering?
0:005:47The Old plumber shows how to join copper pipe without soldering.YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSlide and furlan. So and putting in the fitting and tighten it down do the same thing in the otherMoreSlide and furlan. So and putting in the fitting and tighten it down do the same thing in the other end you can replace a piece of pipe.
When did they stop using copper pipes in houses?
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. But copper's use has gradually faded, due to the introduction of PEX plumbing tubing.
Is PEX A or PEX b better?
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.
Are SharkBite fittings code?
Approved by the Uniform Plumbing Code, International Plumbing Code, and National Plumbing Code of Canada, properly installed SharkBite fittings offer permanent connections, says Product Manager Michael Kornegay.
Do rats eat PEX pipe?
PEX Pipe Is Vulnerable Rodents Chewing Through PEX Pipe is a common problem in our area. It doesn't matter how old your home is, if you have an attic, you need to watch for rodent damage to PEX Pipe or PVC.
Where is PEX not allowed?
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.
What are the disadvantages of using PEX?
The biggest disadvantage to PEX is that it is unknown how well or long it will last. While PEX piping is warrantied for up to 25 years, it is unknown what could happen to PEX piping as the years go on. Since it is so new, it is hard to know what water will do to the plastic over 30 years.
Is PEX A compatible with SharkBite fittings?
SharkBite push-to-connect fittings are compatible with a variety of pipe types including PEX, copper, CPVC, PE-RT and SDR-9 HDPE.
How do you connect PEX pipe to SharkBite fitting?
0:262:10SharkBite Push-to-Connect Fittings - How to Install PEX Tubing, Copper ...YouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipFirst cut the pipe or tube evenly. Making sure the ends are square deeper copper pot with aMoreFirst cut the pipe or tube evenly. Making sure the ends are square deeper copper pot with a sharkbite deeper gauge to remove any rough edges which could damage the over.
Are SharkBite PEX fittings reliable?
SharkBites work better than plastic quick-connects on copper pipes because the lead-free brass body is rigid like the pipe and has a higher pressure tolerance. If you need to repair or replace copper plumbing in your home, a SharkBite fitting is an excellent choice.
Can I use SharkBite fittings on PEX A?
SharkBite push-to-connect fittings listed to ASSE 1061 approved for PEX-A, PEX-B and PEX-C pipe.
First, Choose and Attach A Threaded Fitting to Your Pex Pipe.
A variety of threaded fittings are available in the options listed below for connecting PEX pipe to copper or PVC pipes. Typically, these come in t...
Then, Connect New Pex to Existing Copper Lines.
No matter which fitting you choose, there are only two basic methods for connecting PEX to copper pipe. Traditional copper connections require sold...
Or, Connect Pex to Pvc Pipes.
Homes that have PVC water lines can also easily utilize PEX tubing for extensions or replacements. When choosing fittings, double-check the sizes t...
How to connect PEX tubing to copper?
You can connect PEX tubing to a threaded copper connection by using a threaded adapter. You can buy these with both male and female threads. Screw the adapter onto the copper fitting, using plumbing tape and a wrench to make a tight, leak-proof connections. Push the PEX pipe onto the barbed connector on the other end of the fi tting and secure ...
Why use PEX pipes?
Ease of installation and maintenance is just one reason why plumbers love cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) pipes and increasingly use them to retrofit existing copper pipe systems. PEX pipes are flexible, which means fewer fittings and fewer burst pipes in freezing temperatures. Also, you don't need glue or solder to join them.
What is a solder on connection?
Solder-on connections are also made of brass. They come in two varieties: The female sweat adapter has a slip connection that fits over a pipe, while the male sweat adapter slips inside a fitting. You would use the male fitting one if you want to connect PEX tubing directly to an existing elbow or tee. The other end of each of these connectors is ...
Do you need a support sleeve for copper pipe?
The copper pipe won't collapse, so it doesn't need a support sleeve , but it does need to be clean. Brush off the oxidation layer with a wire brush, then insert the pipe all the way into the other side of the fitting and the connection is complete.
Can you add PEX to copper?
If you want to add PEX pipes to your existing copper system, you can do it with a push fitting, a solder-on adapter that fits either a pipe or a fitting, such as an elbow, or a threaded adapter. Advertisement. How to Connect Pex to Copper. Image Credit: Pradit_Ph/iStock/GettyImages.
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.
What is the advantage of a cinch clamp over a crimp ring?
The advantage of a cinch clamp over a crimp ring is that you just have to tighten it once.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
How does PEX work with copper?
More connections mean more installation labor. PEX, on the other hand, runs continuously all the way from a water-distribution panel (call ed a manifold) to each fixture (tub, sink, etc.). PEX bends easily around corners so no additional connections are necessary.
What is PEX pipe?
Once the top choice for all water supply pipes, copper has been nudged a bit to the side by flexible pipes made from cross-linked polyethylene, “PEX” for short. While copper still plays an important role in water pipes for new construction, PEX pipe is quickly becoming the choice for remodeling and retrofitting.
What type of pipe is easier to install?
For DIYers, PEX is the easier type of pipe to install. Making the connections necessary in copper pipes requires the use of a torch to solder and seal the fittings.
Why is copper pipe so bad?
One of the biggest disadvantages of copper pipes is their tendency to crack if the water inside freezes and expands. Having a degree of flexibility, PEX is able to expand if the water inside it freezes, making PEX more resistant to freeze-breakage.
How many connections do you need for a PEX fixture?
Manufacturers of each type of fitting usually feature detailed installation videos on their websites, and since PEX is flexible, you’ll only need to make two connections for each fixture—one at the manifold, and the other at the fixture itself.
How long does copper pipe last?
It’s tough to beat copper pipes for longevity, which on average last 50 to 70 years, compared to PEX, which has an expected lifespan of 30 to 50 years. PEX’s life expectancy can be shortened by the use of extremely hot household water (180 degrees Fahrenheit or higher) or if the water in the home contains high levels of chlorine.
Where is the water distribution manifold on a PEX pipe?
With PEX, every pipe connects to the water-distribution manifold (usually located near where the water main enters the house), and each individual pipe has its own shutoff valve directly on the manifold. The manifold features labels for each shutoff valve, such as “Bathtub” or “Laundry Room Sink,” so turning the water supply off and on for any fixture is simple.
