Highlights
- Replacing copper with PEX pipes increases your energy efficiency and saves money
- However, PEX isn’t heat-resistant and could impact drinking water quality
- PEX costs $0.50 to $2 per linear square foot, while copper costs $2 to $4 per square foot
Why is Pex better than copper?
PEX is better than copper piping for several reasons. PEX is a type of polymer tubing that costs much less than copper and is quicker to install. PEX tubing is also more flexible, requires fewer joints, and does not corrode like copper pipe. Having said that, copper still has advantages in some areas, like long-term durability, when properly ...
Is Pex better than copper?
PEX is better than copper piping for several reasons. PEX is a type of polymer tubing that costs much less than copper and is quicker to install. PEX tubing is also more flexible, requires fewer joints, and does not corrode like copper pipe.
Is PEX more durable than copper?
PEX tubing is more durable than copper tubing and is used in countless applications, such as radiant heating systems for residential and industrial plumbing. The average life of PEX for plumbing purposes is well over 50 years. What is the lifespan of PEX?
Can PEX be installed the same way as copper?
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. Make sure that the end of the copper tubing is smooth around the edges before you insert it.
Is it worth it to replace 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.
Should I Repipe with PEX or copper?
PEX pipe is not only cheaper than copper but more durable too. PEX is immune to corrosion and mineral build-up, and it's not affected by electrolysis, which can cause small pinhole leaks in copper piping. Copper pipes can last anywhere from six months to the life of a building.
What are the disadvantages of using PEX?
PEX Plumbing DisadvantagesPEX may leach BPA and other toxic chemicals. ... PEX is extremely sensitive to UV light. ... PEX can be damaged by chemicals and pests. ... PEX can't be installed in high heat areas. ... PEX is semi-permeable, which means liquid can enter the pipe.
Is it worth replacing copper pipes?
There is no known health reason to remove copper pipes in good condition from your home. You should replace any copper pipe that is showing signs of damage or deterioration, regardless of its age. If your water is chronically acidic, copper piping might not be the best choice for your home.
What is the life expectancy of PEX plumbing?
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.
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.
When should you not use PEX?
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.
What is the problem 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.
How long does PEX last vs copper?
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.
How often should you repipe a house?
Here is a good rule of thumb Brass and galvanized steel supply pipes typically last 80 to 100 years, while copper can go anywhere from 70 to 80 years. Cast-iron drain lines will usually survive 80 to 100 years, and those made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) are typically good for 25 to 40 years.
How much does it cost to replace copper pipes 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 often should copper pipes be replaced?
70-80 yearsCopper Pipes: 70-80 years. Brass Pipes: 80-100 years. Galvanized Steel Pipes: 80-100 years.
What is the best material to repipe a house?
Copper is the standard and the most prevalent piping material for home plumbing applications. Its strength, durability, flexibility, resistance to corrosion, and ability to tolerate heat makes it a perfect choice to replace iron and steel pipes.
What are the pros and cons of PEX vs copper?
PEX pipes and copper pipes are both viable options for your water supply line. While PEX pipes are easier to install, cheaper, and more flexible, copper pipes are sturdier and tend to have a longer lifespan.
What should I replace my water pipes with?
Galvanized steel or iron pipes mean that they have been coated with a protective layer of zinc to help prevent corrosion from water. Although still considered safe for water pipes, these pipes eventually corrode and begin to leak, and should be replaced with copper, CPVC, or PEX pipes.
How much does it cost to repipe with PEX?
The cost to repipe a house with PEX tubing is $0.40 to $0.50 per linear foot depending on the size of the house and the extent of replumbing you're doing. Repiping a 2,000 square foot home with PEX costs between $2,000 and $4,000.
Why is PEX piping better than copper?
Long-Term Durability – Besides being more flexible and requiring fewer fittings than copper piping, PEX pipes have better chemical resistance as well as expansion and contraction rates . As a result, installing PEX piping could help you eliminate many of the potential plumbing leaks due to corrosion and failed fittings, which typically affect copper pipes.
How does a plumber replace copper pipes?
Then, he turns off the main water supply and drains the plumbing system. Once the plumbing system has been drained, the plumber cuts and removes the old copper pipes , replacing them with PEX piping.
What to do if your PEX pipes flex?
In general, installing a water pressure regulator can solve water hammer problems.
Does PEX make a loud noise?
While water hammer doesn’t produce loud noises in PEX pipes, the potential danger for pipe damage still exists. If you observe that your exposed PEX pipes flex or move when you turn off your faucets suddenly, you should have your plumbing system checked by a professional. In general, installing a water pressure regulator can solve water hammer problems.
Can you replace copper pipes with PEX?
During your remodeling project, you could opt for two replacement options. If just a pipe or a section of your copper plumbing system is leaking, you could just replace it with PEX piping. But if you have an old copper plumbing system that leaks frequently in different areas of your home, you may want to consider a whole-house repipe. While most people tend to prefer replacing small sections of their plumbing systems, a whole-house repipe is actually simpler and more cost-effective than fixing frequent water leaks throughout your home.
Can a plumber fix a leaky pipe?
Regardless of the plumbing issues you have, whether it’s a leaky pipe that’s wreaking havoc on your home or copper pipes that are corroded on the inside, our skilled and experienced plumbers can accurately identify any plumbing problems and recommend the right plumbing repair or replacement strategies for your property. Contact our friendly professionals to schedule your free consultation today!
Is PEX better than copper?
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. They also produce less condensation on cold water lines, which could lead to fewer moisture-related problems in ceilings and walls.
Why use PEX over copper?
There are some other reasons that you might want to choose PEX pipes over copper ones: Lower cost: PEX costs less to create than copper pipes, and it weighs less so it has lower shipping costs .
What is PEX?
PEX is a new kind of polyethylene (a plastic material) that is cross-linked. The material has cross-linked bonds on the molecular level. This gives it superior strength and many other characteristics that make it great for plumbing pipes. Pipes made of PEX are flexible, resistant to chemicals, quiet when water is flowing through them, and much more.
What color is PEX?
If you have slightly acidic water, PEX won’t be affected, while copper will be. Color codes: PEX pipes comes in red and blue for hot and cold supply lines. This coloring can help prevent confusion during installation, maintenance and repairs. Quieter pipes: Water won’t make as much noise when it runs through PEX pipes.
Is copper pipe good?
While copper is an excellent material, no material is perfect. 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. ...
Is PEX a good material for piping?
Copper pipes were once the best option for homeowners who wanted durable pipes that would last half a lifetime. However, new improvements in materials sciences have led to PEX, an amazing material that can outperform copper piping in many areas. This less expensive, flexible material is a great option for homeowners who have problems ...
Is copper pipe flexible?
Loose fittings: Copper pipe is very sturdy but not very flexible. Sometimes this can result in loose fittings. PEX is much more flexible, and it expands and contracts in the heat better. This flexibility helps keep its fittings intact. PEX also requires fewer fittings, so it has fewer weak spots, so to speak.
Does PEX corrode?
No corrosion: As a plastic and not a metal, PEX pipe will not corrode. While copper won’t corrode for many years, it will eventually give out to corrosion.
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.
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.
Can you swap copper pipe for PEX?
There is a rule of thumb among contractors that when swapping out copper pipe for PEX the safest thing to do is upsize the PEX tubing.
Is PEX the same as copper?
No. Assuming you start with an available pressure of 65 PSI, the copper system would deliver 60.6 PSI at the urinal while PEX would deliver 49.8 PSI. While the PEX flow is less than copper, it’s still well above the required 25 PSI so it will work without upsizing. And using bend supports instead of elbows in the PEX system would lower the pressure loss to 4.2 PSI, virtually identical to copper.
What is replacing copper pipes with PEX?
In the 21st century, copper pipes, as well as plastic PVC pipes, are being replaced with PEX. One estimate states that residential use of PEX for delivering drinking water to home faucets has increased by 40 percent annually.
Why is PEX pipe better than copper?
Advantages of PEX Pipe. PEX is more resistant than copper to breakage caused by freezing. Conserves energy by reducing the loss of heat through pipe wall. PEX tubing can be bent and can curve around structural framing and other obstacles making installation easier.
How long does copper pipe last?
L-Type copper pipes are the most durable home piping and last between 50-100 years. K-Type copper pipes are the thickest copper piping and are used for water mains in cities. The K-Type copper pipe lasts for at least 100 years. It isn’t necessary to have this durable plumbing in your house because it is expensive.
What colors are used in PEX pipes?
PEX piping comes in three different colors (red, blue, white). These colors have no real effect on the pipe. They are used as a reference for plumbers: red for hot water, blue for cold water, and white for miscellaneous use.
What is the best pipe material for water?
The choice often comes down to the two most popular and common types of pipe materials: Copper vs PEX. But choosing between the two can be difficult. Copper is great for water supply lines and heating systems but not as good for drain or waste lines because it corrodes over time.
How much has the use of PEX increased?
One estimate states that residential use of PEX for delivering drinking water to home faucets has increased by 40 percent annually. And there is evidence that PEX will become the dominant technology for carrying water into homes and businesses in the years to come.
What are the disadvantages of copper pipes?
Disadvantages of Copper Pipe. Copper is expensive. Low resistance to acidity. Adds a slight metallic flavor to drinking water. Many people are turned off by this as the taste may be unpleasant. Can become toxic. 3. Advantages of PEX Pipe. PEX is more resistant than copper to breakage caused by freezing.
