Are you looking to repair, replace, or expand your home's existing plumbing with PEX? It's easy enough to connect different types of pipes if you equip yourself with the right fittings and tools for the job.
From under the sink, you can use a shut-off valve like an angle stop then a flex line to the faucet or toilet. If this is a tub or shower, you can hook directly to the valve with PEX to iron pipe adapters into the valve. Clamp: Make sure to use the right clamps and tools together. How to Install PEX (Quick Tips): Are you afraid to solder copper pipes?If you've never soldered before it can be intimidating. Plus you can easily catch your house on fire. Today you're going to learn how to install PEX pipe. Now here's the deal, this isn't a general overview. Learn how to install or replace a water supply PEX shut-off valve (stop). This video is for those individuals seeking the most up-to-date installation inform. Installing a PEX Valve 1 Install blocking behind the sink and run 1/2-inch PEX tubing around the blocking and extend it out from the wall about an inch. Hold the tubing to the block with a drop ear. So you bought your dream faucet, and now you need to install it? If you can turn off the water, you can install a single-handle pull-down kitchen faucet in mere minutes. What you’ll need: Screwdriver. Adjustable wrench. How to install it: 1. Turn off the sink’s water supply. If necessary, remove.
Install Kitchen Faucet With Pex Faucet
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Today, with the help of cross-linked 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.
In fact, if your home is equipped with a water supply manifold—not all homes are—individual PEX pipes can be directly connected to the manifold and then fished through the walls all the way to a sink, tub, or shower to supply hot and cold water. “Threading PEX through a wall will take much less tearing apart of that wall compared to other pipes,” says Daniel O’Brian, technical expert for the online plumbing retailer SupplyHouse.com.
Not only easy to manipulate, PEX pipe is also easy to connect to existing water lines in the house for repairs or new installations. Are you already working with copper or PVC pipe? Thanks to a wide range of PEX components that make connecting the pipes a snap, you, too, can do your own plumbing.
If you want to add new PEX to your existing water lines, keep reading. We’ll let you know which fittings and tools you’ll need and how they’re used to make the connections.
Choose and Attach a Threaded Fitting
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 two parts, often sold separately. Half attaches to the PEX pipe, and the other half attaches to the existing pipe, either copper or PVC. Thread the two halves together and, voilà, you have a watertight connection.
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.
The required tools and level of complication in a PEX installation depend on the type of fitting you purchase, so you should understand your options first to make sure that you choose hardware you can handle. Start by getting acquainted with your options and learning how they connect to PEX.
- Expansion fittings (like these from BlueFin and these from Uponor) insert snugly into the PEX pipe with a little help. Use a PEX expander tool to stretch the diameter of the pipe to accommodate the fitting. PEX, which has “memory,” then returns to its original size, creating a watertight seal.
- Crimp fittings (like these from Bluefin) are made by slipping metal rings over the end of the PEX pipe and then inserting the correct fitting into the end of the pipe. A PEX crimping tool is then used to tighten the metal ring over the PEX pipe and the fitting.
- Compression fittings (like these from Bluefin) involve sliding a brass nut and a plastic compression ring over the PEX pipe and then inserting a metal sleeve inside the pipe for support (all of these parts can be purchased separately). The fitting is inserted into the PEX pipe and sleeve, and then the nut is tightened to the fitting, squeezing the compression ring to form a tight seal.
- Clamp fittings make use of the same fittings as those used in crimp connections, but instead of using a crimping tool, a ratchet clamping tool is necessary for tightening steel rings in place on the PEX side. The ring slips over the PEX pipe, and the fitting is then inserted into the end of the pipe. The ring is positioned over the fitting, and the clamping tool is used to compress a tab on the side of the ring to tighten it.
- Push-fit fittings, including those manufactured by SharkBite and BlueFin, are the simplest to connect and require neither additional tools nor clamping or crimping to attach the fitting to either the PEX pipe or your copper or PVC pipe. Connection is simple: Insert the PEX pipe into one end of the fitting, and its internal components lock it securely in place. This convenience, however, comes at a price. SharkBite fittings are more expensive than most of the others listed here, but they also spare you from having to buy specialty tools if you’re making only a few connections.
Connect New PEX to Existing Copper Pipe
No matter which fitting you choose, there are only two basic methods for connecting PEX to copper pipe. Traditional copper connections require soldering or “sweating,” while newer, more innovative options like SharkBite fittings connect to copper without any special tools.
Photo: istockphoto.com
THREADED SWEAT CONNECTIONS
For threaded connections, you will always have two separate fittings, one for each pipe you’re connecting and then eventually twisting together. 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.
Then, a threaded PEX fitting is attached to the PEX pipe using the methods outlined in the section above. You can even find a threaded SharkBite fitting with push-fit technology on the PEX side that features a threaded end for twisting onto the threaded end of a threaded copper fitting. Once both fittings are connected to the pipes, twist them together to form a seal. (Though, if you’re already using push-fit fittings, the simplest approach is to just use the SharkBite fitting on both pipes you’re connecting, which we’ll get into next.) Just keep these considerations in mind:
- 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.)
- The sizes of the threaded ends must match in order for the PEX fitting to twist onto the copper pipe fitting.
- You can connect pipes of different sizes as long as the threaded ends are the same size. Threaded fittings are labeled by the sizes of both ends, meaning a ½” X ½” fitting will connect two ½” pipes while a ½” X 3/8″ fitting (also called a “reducer” fitting) is required to connect a ½” pipe to a 3/8″ pipe.
- Use the sweat method of connecting only if you’re familiar with soldering copper, and before you get started check with your local building authority for additional regulations (such as the need for inspections). If you’re not comfortable with soldering, proceed with the following method.
SHARKBITE PEX-TO-COPPER CONNECTIONS
If you don’t want to bother with soldering, opt for a SharkBite fitting. As described above, this fitting can accommodate a copper pipe on one side and a PEX pipe on the other. Just as the PEX pipe is pushed into the PEX end of the fitting, the copper pipe is pushed into the other end. That’s it! Thanks to the push-fit mechanism of the fitting, you’ve made a watertight connection.
Connect PEX to PVC Pipe
Homes that have PVC water lines can also easily utilize PEX tubing for extensions or replacements. When choosing fittings, double-check the sizes to ensure that you’re buying the right size for the diameter of your pipes.
THREADED FITTINGS
First, always choose a threaded male plastic fitting for the existing PVC pipe to pair with the metal female fitting for the PEX pipe. The reverse—a metal male fitting connected to a plastic female fitting—can strip the threads on or even crack a plastic female fitting, whereas a metal female fitting can handle the superior strength of the metal male fitting.)
The fitting attaches using the standard PVC connection method, which includes brushing PVC primer (like this primer by Hercules) on both the fitting and the pipe to clean and slightly soften the PVC. The glue used for connecting PVC fittings (also by Hercules) is then applied to the end of the pipe and to the inside of the fitting before it’s slipped over the end of the PVC pipe.
Install a matching threaded metal female fitting on the end of the PEX pipe, using any one of the first four PEX connection methods listed above. Be sure to buy the right type of fitting for the connection method you’re using: A crimped fitting is slightly different from an expansion fitting, so choose carefully.
Once the adapter fittings are secured to the ends of both pipes, wrap a little plumber’s tape on the end of the threaded male fitting for a watertight seal when you twist the threaded ends of the fittings together.
SHARKBITE PEX-TO-PVC CONNECTIONS
While you won’t go wrong using the threaded connection method above, there’s an even simpler method available: SharkBite recently introduced a PVC transition coupling that is suitable for connecting PEX to PVC. These push-fit connectors work by inserting the cut ends of each pipe into the appropriate end of the coupling. You’ll not only save time by using these push-fit connectors, you’ll also avoid having to use PVC glue to attach a plastic threaded adapter to the PVC pipe.
This article has been brought to you by SupplyHouse.com. Its facts and opinions are those of BobVila.com.
When choosing plastic or brass fittings to use for PEX piping, there are many varieties of tools and products available to use. In general, plumbing fittings come in a wide range of products, but before choosing, you have to consider the cost, quality, and the ease of installation. Researching is always advisable otherwise, you might end up with a serious headache. Some plumbers who make use of the wrong fittings for PEX piping end up having to perform costly repairs and end up doing unnecessary warranty work.
Understanding Plastic or Brass Fittings
The choices for PEX fittings are uncountable. Marisa Chandley, who was a senior marketing manager for a vanguard plumbing company, a company that majorly sells fittings and PEX pipe explained her view, focusing on the fact that fittings have an ASTM (American Society for Testing and Materials) standard and are generally marked by third-party agencies such as NSF (National Science Foundation) and ULC (Underwriters Laboratories of Canada).
Plastic fittings have been considered to be less durable. Some are also of the opinion that plastic fittings may be of smaller diameter than that of brass fittings thereby making it less effective. The basic fact is that plastic fittings is better and effective, unlike the brass PEX fitting. Korea and China are the major importers of cheap brass fittings. Sometimes they are mistaken for high standard fittings. The major thing to use when differentiating an original product from a fake is the UL or NSF mark by the side. This mark is very necessary another side you might not know the difference.
Due to the problem earlier caused by polybutylene (PEX predecessors) plastic PEX fitting have been recommended. It is true that in areas where water is less acidic, brass fitting is better. But in areas where water is acidic or easily contaminated, plastic fittings are better. Hot soils effect brass fitting as they tend to corrode easily. When they corrode it starts wearing away, it can cause failure at any time.
There are periods when brass fittings are most ideal. An example is when you are being exposed to a chemical agent at the application; plastic doesn’t react very well. But if upon application of certain chemical agents, brass is better to be used.
The brass PEX fitting and the plastic PEX fittings have some advantages as well as disadvantages, and I’ll like to explain them in detail.
Advantages of Brass fittings
Brass is a tough fitting
When looking for a tough fitting to use, brass is a good example. It has some good strength and can be very reliable for PEX fittings.
Installation procedure
The easiest to install is the brass PEX fitting. All you need is a tool that clamps the copper crimp ring down. If that is properly done, within a few minutes, you are done with your installation.
Disadvantages of Brass fittings
Performance
The brass PEX fittings if not carefully used can affect the performance of pipes. If the water coming out through the pipe is acidic, the brass PEX fitting can easily burst. Brass PEX fitting generally does not have good performance.
It is prone to leakage.
Pex Faucet Adapter
When the weather temperature is hotter than expected, the brass PEX fitting doesn’t have the strength to withstand the heat and this most times results to severe leakage. This leakage takes time to stop even when measures are taking.
Original products are scarce
This is the most annoying part of the brass PEX fitting. It is very hard to see an original product. Most of the products are made in China and Korea and they don’t take a long time to wear out. When they start leaking, looking for measures to stop the leakage will never give a satisfying result as they are not made to last long.
It can corrode
The brass fittings can corrode although this depends on the water condition. The better the water condition, the lesser then tend to wear away.
It is costly
A lot of individuals prefer the plastic PEX fitting because the brass PEX fitting has proven to be more costly than any other PEX fittings. The cost of brass PEX fittings is not cheap, and this has resulted in an individual’s refusing to make use of it.
The plastic PEX fittings is preferably used by professional plumbers. This day’s professional plumbers are buying three times more plastic than brass. The brass PEX fitting cost almost 5 times than that of the plastic PEX fittings. When purchasing a plastic PEX fittings, you have more confidence as manufacturers trust them more than the brass PEX fittings.
Read: Copper vs PEX Piping- Which is Better
Advantages of plastic fittings
They are designed for use.
Plastic fittings can be easily re-mountable and are designed for use and reuse. They can be easily removed, cleaned, servicedand reused again. It doesn’t break when removed. It is very strong and can be remounted as many times as possible. The products made are all performing good jobs with fewer complaints.
They rarely crush pipes.
It is very hard to see a plastic fitting to torque and crush a pipe. It will preferably strip than crush a pipe. No matter the outburst of water both acidic and contaminated, the plastic PEX fitting will typically never crush the pipe.
Less leakage.
This is one of the best features of the plastic PEX fitting. It doesn’t easily leak. Unlike the brass PEX fitting that leaks easily, you can make use of the plastic PEX fitting for 10 years and still be rest assured that there will be no leakage.
Water condition
In areas where water is very acidic plastic PEX fitting is the most ideal. Plastic fittings do not corrode or wear out due to terrible water condition. It is very effective and highly durable and can be used in houses that have a lower quality water system.
Disadvantages of the plastic fitting
Installation process.
The installation process of the plastic fitting is a little tougher. Unlike the brass fitting that can easily be installed, the process of installation of the plastic fitting requires some rigorous procedures.
The plastic fittings has been criticized by people who have not made use of it as they feel it is going to be as bad as the polybutylene. The polybutylene left with a bad reputation, and since then users have refused to make use of the plastic PEX fitting. The polybutylene is good and has high pressures, but once they get in touch with disinfectant, they easily burst and leak. They do not delay in damaging the water system.
The brass fitting is not as effective as the plastic PEX fitting. The fact that it easily corrodes makes it less useful to plumbers. Plumbers need to make use of good fittings when passing pipes in a house or a building. The brass doesn’t have any control over it fittings. If you are considering purchasing a good fitting for your pipe, it is better to make use of the plastic PEX fitting as it doesn’t easily corrode, it can be used for any water condition and doesn’t have fake products like the brass.
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