PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) has several advantages over copper:
- PEX is cheaper than copper which is why you may like PEX better. Half-inch PEX tubing costs a
bout a third the price of copper and maybe easier to work on. Some of the savings will be offset by the need for a special tool to install the fitting - ngs, but if you’re doing a medium to large plumbing job, you’ll usually save by using PEX instead of copper.
- PEX is faster to install than copper. If you use a manifold and “home-run” system (shown below), it’s like running a garden hose to each fixture—super fast and easy. But even if you install PEX in a conventional main line and branch system, the connections are quicker to make than soldering copper.
- PEX won’t corrode like copper but may eventually dry and crack. If you live in an area with acidic water, copper can corrode over time. PEX is unaffected by acidic water and is therefore a better choice in these areas.
- One major advantage that PEX pipes have over their metal counterparts is its flexibility, which makes PEX tubing installation considerably easier. PEX piping and fittings are easier to put together as there are no bends required when turning corners.
Do I need special tools to install PEX plumbing pipe?
cinch conections sacramento plumbing Do it yourself
No. You can use stab-in or compression fittings to make the connections. But they’re too expensive to be practical on large projects. For most jobs, you’ll want to invest in a special tool to make connections for PEX plumbing jobs. Repipe jobs may need other tools to run lines through existing walls.
There are several PEX connection methods, but only two that are affordable enough to be practical for DIYers: crimp rings and cinch clamps, as shown above.
Crimp rings are a band of metal, usually copper, that you slip over the fitting and compress with a crimp ring tool. The main drawback to the crimp ring method is that you’ll need either separate crimping tools for 1/2-in. and 3/4-in. fittings, or a universal tool with a swappable insert (not shown). This adds a little up-front cost to this method. A combo kit with interchangeable crimp jaws starts at about $100.
Cinch clamps work more like the traditional band clamps. You slip the cinch clamp tool (shown) over the protruding tab and squeeze to tighten the cinch clamp.
The same tool works for all sizes of cinch clamps. Cinch clamp tools start at about $40.
We like the one-handed version shown in the photo because you can hold the ring in place with one hand while tightening it with the other.
The only other special tool you need is a scissors-like cutter for the tubing.
Types of PEX pipes?
Depending on your area of application, there are basically 3 types of PEX pipes to choose from. There are 3 types of PEX pipes. They include PEX-A, PEX-B, and PEX-C . Although all the PEX pipes are made through different processes, the structure of their composition is similar.
Can PEX be used under the slab?
Yes. The flexibility of PEX allows it to be supplied in coils meaning installations under the slab can be made in a single, continuous length without the need for fittings. PEX is not affected by concrete, (it is commonly encased in concrete for radiant floor heating). PEX , however, must be sleeved when penetrating a slab.
What is recommened uses for PEX?
PEX’s flexibility and strength at temperatures ranging from below freezing up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit makes it an ideal piping material for hot and cold water plumbing, service lines, hedronic radiant heating systems, snow melting applications, ice rinks and refrigeration warehouses.
How can i be sure that PEX is a safe product for plumbing?
PEX is manufactured and tested for the following standards: astm f 876, f 877, awwa c904 aand csa b 137.5.
Both the product manufacturer and independent third party testing agencies conduct routine quality control and quality assurance evaluations to insure the product meets astm, andi/nsf international and csa standards.
Compliance with the standards ensures the end user of safety and quality. Additionally PEX is included in all of the major model plumbing codes used in the united states and Canada npc, upc, ipc and nspc, and approved by HUD for hot and cold potable water plumbing use.
Is the thermal expansion/contraction of PEX a problem?
No. While PEX expands more than other plumbing materials, directional changes made with the tubing and some slack in the tubing during installation accommodate the expansion and contraction of the system if properly installed.
Conclusion:
PEX is easier for someone to work on. The complex nature of making pipe cuts and handling copper is much more than a normal DIY person can handle. PEX is easy to fix and maintain. We suggest all repipes be done in PEX for most normal homes.
Which is better—PEX or copper?
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