Can I use PEX for a water line?
You can use PEX for the water line. Sometimes it's good to go up a size since the OD is copper sizing, meaning that the ID is smaller than copper. Or you can also use Poly, which has copper ID size, and a larger OD. Terry, thanks for your reply.
What are the advantages of PEX pipes?
PEX expands, making it more resistant to freeze-cracking than either copper or steel. PEX does not corrode, which can happen with both copper and steel pipes, leading to leaks and contamination of the water supply. Water flows silently through PEX, eliminating the “water hammer” noiseassociated with metal piping.
What color PEX pipe is used for hot water?
1 Red PEX pipe carries hot water. 2 Blue PEX pipe carries cold water. 3 White PEX pipe can be used for either hot or cold water. 4 Gray PEX pipe, like white, can be used for either hot or cold water (although not all DIY centers carry gray).
Is a PEX supply better than a copper supply?
If you live in an area with acidic water, copper can corrode over time. A PEX supply is unaffected by acidic water and is therefore a better choice in these areas. Sorry, the video player failed to load. (Error Code: 100013) What About PEX vs. CPVC? A PEX supply and CPVC cost about the same.
Can you use PEX as your main water line?
It is important to ensure the PEX pipe you're using for the main pipeline is listed and approved for water service. Be sure to check local code and the markings on the pipe to ensure this approval. Some manufacturers also offer direct connections to the water meter.
How do you connect water main to PEX?
2:5414:32Replace main water line using pex pipe - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd use our reamer. All right in preparation of making our copper to PEX connection we're going toMoreAnd use our reamer. All right in preparation of making our copper to PEX connection we're going to go ahead and solder our inch and a quarter. Together onto a penny.
When should you not use PEX pipe?
PEX plumbing is fine inside the walls of a home, no matter the temperatures as it can be covered with insulation. However, one of the disadvantages of PEX plumbing is it cannot be used outdoors in cold climates as there is no way to cover them and protect them from freezing temperatures.
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 the best pipe for water main?
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pipe is widely used for new water main applications. PVC pipe material is inexpensive, durable, and lightweight. Furthermore, it is corrosion resistant and nonreactive with most chemicals. Only ductile iron pipe is used as often for water main applications.
How long will PEX last underground?
Nowadays, PEX tubing is quickly replacing traditional copper and galvanized steel pipes and is an exceptional option for underground piping. PEX tubing is approved for direct burial outdoors. PEX has a life expectancy of 40-50 years, made possible by its durable and non-corrosive materials.
Do plumbers like PEX?
All this makes PEX an excellent piping material for hot and cold water systems, especially since it is flexible and well adapted for temperatures below freezing all the way up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. PEX is easy for plumbers to install and has fewer joints, bringing your costs down.
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.
Should I replace my copper pipes with 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.
Do rats eat PEX pipe?
The Problem Mice and rats will chew through anything they can, including plastic, so PEX tubing is at just as much risk as the plastic-coated wiring in a car or an HVAC unit. While all rodent damage can be expensive, if rodents chew through a home's PEX water pipes, the result can be disastrous.
Will PEX last as long as copper?
Although copper piping takes significantly longer to install, it does provide a longer overall lifespan. Copper manufacturers typically offer a 50 year warranty in comparison to 25 years for PEX, but this of course may vary by supplier.
Is PEX better than PVC?
When a connection to copper or other metal pipes is required, PEX works better than PVC because crosslinked polyethylene won't corrode. - Price. When you compare the material costs of PEX vs PVC, PEX comes out more expensive. (However, balance this factor against the lower labor cost to install PEX.)
How do I connect the main water line to my house?
0:062:12The Main Water Line to Your House and How it Works - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipAnd just like the valves on the gas. Line. You turn the valve to off. So you want to shut that offMoreAnd just like the valves on the gas. Line. You turn the valve to off. So you want to shut that off and then you can take care of whatever problems you need to and then you can turn it back on so.
How do you connect a water line to a water meter?
0:133:30Accessing your water meter to create water supply line - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipSo we have this fitting to fit on the meter here this is a push-to-connect fitting we're going toMoreSo we have this fitting to fit on the meter here this is a push-to-connect fitting we're going to use PEX tubing I'm gonna go to clean this out first.
How do you connect PVC to PEX?
0:061:01Connecting PVC to PEX and Copper - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe easiest way to connect to PEX or copper is by using the new sharkbite fitting that connects bothMoreThe easiest way to connect to PEX or copper is by using the new sharkbite fitting that connects both sides with no tools or glue just pushing both sides. And you have a secure connection.
What PEX fittings can be used underground?
Among the three types of PEX, two types, PEX A and PEX B, are suitable for burying underground. These two PEX tubing options have enough flexibility to allow them to withstand the fluctuations of water freezing and thawing, but should be buried below the frost line.
What is PEX Piping?
PEX piping (shorthand for cross-linked polyethylene) costs less than half the price of copper and installs much faster. And since it’s flexible, PEX makes remodeling jobs easier. PEX has a strong “memory;” it always wants to spring back to its original shape. So working with a coil of PEX is like wrestling with a giant Slinky. For most jobs, you’re better off buying 10-ft. “sticks” instead. You may have to pay a few cents more per foot and install a coupler or two, but you’ll avoid frustration and kinks. Even plumbers who run miles of PEX every year often buy sticks than coils.
How Do I Connect PEX to my Plumbing Fixtures?
If the connection will be visible, like under a wall-hung sink, and you would prefer the look of a copper tube coming out of the wall, use a copper stub-out (left). You can connect a compression-type shutoff valve to the one-half inch copper stub-out and then connect your fixture. In areas that are concealed, like under a kitchen sink or vanity cabinet, you can eliminate a joint by running PEX supply directly to the shutoff valve. Use a drop-ear bend support to hold the tubing in a tight bend (right). There are several types of shutoff valves that connect directly to PEX.
What About PEX vs. CPVC?
A PEX supply and CPVC cost about the same. But there are a few reasons why PEX may be a better choice. First, a PEX doesn’t require glue, which means you don’t have to work in well-ventilated spaces or wear a respirator. PEX is less likely than CPVC to burst if it freezes. Also, since PEX is more flexible and available in long lengths, it can work better for ‘fishing’ through walls in remodeling situations.
How Do I Splice PEX Fittings Into My Existing Pipe?
SharkBite is one common brand of stab-in fitting. This method doesn’t require soldering, which can be a big time-saver. But check with your plumbing inspector if you’re planning to bury this connection in a wall or ceiling. Some areas don’t allow stab-in fittings to be concealed. Another method is to solder in a tee and a PEX supply adapter. Then slip the PEX supply tubing over the adapter and attach it with your chosen connection method (right). You can also use a stab-in tee to connect PEX fittings supply to CPVC. Read the label to find the compatible fitting.
Is PEX Reliable?
PEX has been used for decades in other countries, where there are thousands of homes with 30-year-old, leak-free PEX. Most of the problems with PEX systems, in the United States and elsewhere, were due to sloppy installation or faulty fittings rather than the tubing itself.
Will PEX Break or Split if it Freezes?
Probably not. Manufacturers are reluctant to say so, but reports from the field suggest PEX can withstand freezing. You should still protect the tubing from freezing. But since it can expand and contract, it’s less likely to break than rigid piping.
What are the grades of PEX?
For water lines there are three PEX supply grades: PEX-A, PEX-B and PEX-C. They’re manufactured differently, PEX-A being slightly more flexible. If you’re ordering online, go ahead and spend a few cents extra for PEX-A. But don’t go running around town looking for it; the difference isn’t that big.
Why is it important to have a bigger supply line?
Having a bigger supply line to the home means you can run more than one thing and not notice flow or pressure dropping off. Especially if you want to use a hose to water things, more is better and it's only a one-time expense that isn't really all that much.
Can you use PEX for water lines?
You can use PEX for the water line. Sometimes it's good to go up a size since the OD is copper sizing, meaning that the ID is smaller than copper. Or you can also use Poly, which has copper ID size, and a larger OD. Terry, May 3, 2015. #2.
Why install PEX pipe in slab?
Installing PEX pipe in the slab or underground can help reduce costs because there are no hangers required and less ladder time for installers ( adding to installation efficiencies). In addition, no insulation is required, offering even more cost savings.
How long is a PEX coil?
Because PEX is available in long coil lengths up to 1,000 feet, underground connections are rare. But if you need to make a connection, it’s good to know you have approval with the ASTM F1960 ProPEX connection.
Is PEX pipe approved for water?
It is important to ensure the PEX pipe you’re using for the main pipe line is listed and approved for water service. Be sure to check local code and the markings on the pipe to ensure this approval.
Can you use PEX all the way?
But you may not know that you can actually use PEX all the way from the curb into the home. Here are three ways you can maximize the benefits of PEX — flexibility, durability, labor efficiencies, system performance, cost savings — from street to fixture for many, or even all, of your plumbing installs.
Can you use PEX in a plumbing system?
Some plumbing contractors may be surprised to know that PEX is approved for use in underground as well as in-slab applications. For jurisdictions that allow PEX in these types of applications, this can be a big advantage.
