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Can you use PEX for kitchen sink?
It’s easy to connect PEX tubing to fittings as well as to copper and CPVC pipes. When you use it to supply a sink, Tools Specialist offers several options for connecting the valves. Two of the most common are transitioning to copper and installing metal compression valves or using valves designed for PEX tubing.
Why is PEX plumbing bad?
Potential chemical leaching is another downside of PEX piping. Due to its chemical composition, the PEX pipe material may leach toxic chemicals including bisphenol (BPA), MTBE, tertiary butyl alcohol (TBA), and others.
What is the best way to connect PEX tubing?
The most common connection method used in PEX installation is the “Crimp” method. This process involves sliding a ribbed fitting into the PEX tube and crimping a seal ring around the connection point. These rings are typically made of copper, but may be found in plastic as well as brass.
How do I connect my PEX to my kitchen sink?
Step 1: Cut the PEX Pipe. Using the PEX pipe cutter, cut the two pieces of PEX pipe to the length that you need for them to reach the faucet. Step 2: Crimp the Fitting. Slide a crimp ring onto both pieces of PEX. Step 3: Connect to the Faucet. Step 4: Check for Leaks.
Is PEX plumbing bad for you?
California banned PEX because of the possibility that harmful chemicals can enter drinking water. There are no studies that indicate that you will risk your health if you drink water from PEX pipes. However, PEX has been banned and reapproved in California several times, and it is used nationwide.
What are the disadvantages of PEX?
PEX Plumbing Disadvantages PEX 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.
When should you not use PEX pipe?
PEX Plumbing Pipe Disadvantages While PEX has numerous benefits, it should not be used outdoors. PEX can’t be recycled. PEX can’t be directly connected to a water heater, requiring an 18-inch copper or PVC line directly connected to the water heater.
Is it better to crimp or clamp PEX?
If you are looking for a fast and more secure connection that will stand the test of time, crimp tools are your better option. But if you want more flexibility without working more, go for PEX clamps.
What is better crimp or cinch?
The stainless steel Cinch Clamps are stronger than the copper Crimp Rings. I know this from personal experience after working with frozen water lines. When the fitted connection freezes with water in the line it will cause the copper Crimp Ring to expand just enough to cause a leak when it thaws.
Which PEX connection is best?
PEX-A, which has the most flexible tubing and best freeze- and kink resistance, is ideal for use with kitchen and bath fixtures. PEX-B is slightly less flexible and less freeze-resistant.
How do you support PEX pipe under sink?
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.
How do I convert galvanized pipe to PEX?
First, attach the adapter to the existing pipe. Whether the adapter fitting is threaded on the galvanized pipe or soldered to copper, connect to the existing pipe. Then, slide the ring onto the PEX tubing and place the PEX over the adapter’s male end. Clamp the ring with a clamp.
Is PEX Safe 2021?
PEX was banned in California due to some concerns about toxic materials leaking through the pipe and into water. Through various national laboratory tests, PEX has proven to be completely safe and durable. It is now legal in California and even included in principal plumbing codes.
Is PEX safe for drinking water 2021?
With a plumbing-pipe offering in sizes up to 3 inches, PEX is challenging traditional copper and CPVC materials for domestic water applications. This provides confirmation the pipe does not leach harmful substances into drinking water and is safe for potable systems in healthcare facilities.
Does PEX leach chemicals?
PEX does leach small amounts of VOCs. Different brands cause different odors and leach different chemicals. The studies have not identified the brands by name. But they found variations even within each brand.
How long will PEX last?
Additionally, long-term testing programs on PEX have shown that it has a potential lifespan of more than 100 years. So, while copper systems may have to be re-piped every few years or decades due to corrosion and pinhole leaks, a PEX system can last 10 times longer — or more.
Can rodents chew through PEX?
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.
Should I switch from copper to PEX?
The installer recommends replacing my copper pipes with PEX. If so, you could get another 23 years out of your copper pipes and spare the cost to replace plumbing. If it’s a small area that’s leaking, you could just replace that section with either PEX or copper. Both types are interchangeable.
What are the pros and cons of PEX pipe?
Pros: Fast and easy to learn, quick to install, relatively inexpensive, tools and products readily available at a variety of retailers. Cons: Crimping works against the “shape memory” of PEX, which always wants to return to its natural shape.
Is PEX OK for hot water?
White PEX pipe can be used for either hot or cold water. Gray PEX pipe, like white, can be used for either hot or cold water (although not all DIY centers carry gray).
