Cross linked polyethylene (PEX) is growing quickly in acceptable as a supply line for residential plumbing, It’s not hard to understand why. Developed in the 1960’s but relatively new to the United States, this supply pipe combines the ease of use of flexible tubing with the durability of rigid pipe . It can withstand from subfreezing to 180 Degrees.it inexpensive ; and it’s quieter than rigid supply pipe .
PEX os flexible plastic tubing that’s reinforced by a chemical reaction at creates long fibers to increase the strength of the material. It has been allowed by code in Europe and the southern United States for many years , but has won approval for residential supply use in most major plumbing codes only recently . It’s frequently used in most major plumbing codes only recently supply use in most major manufacturer housing and recreational vehicles and radiant heating systems . Because it so flexible , PEX can easily be bent to follow corners and make others changes in direction . From the water main and heater , it is connected into manifold fittings that redistribute the water in much the same manner as a lawn irrigation system.
For standard residential installations , PEX can be joined with very simple fittings and tools. Unions are generally made with made with a crimping tool and a crimping ring . You simply insert the ends of the pipe you’re joining into the ring , then clamp down the ring with the crimping tool . PEX pipe, tools, and fittings can be purchased from most wholesale plumbing suppliers and at many home centers . Coils of PEX are sold in several diameters from the 1/4 inch to 1 inch . PEX tubing and fitting from different manufacturers are not interchangeable . Any warranty coverage will be voided if products are mixed .
Tools you may need list ( you should have all supply lines change every 5 years )
Tape Measure, Flet-tipped pen, Full circle crimping tool , Go no gauge , tubing cutter, PEX pipe , Manifolds , Protector plates, PEX fitting, PEX , Utility knife, plastic hangers, crimp ring , protective equipment.
PEX pipe is relatively new water supply material that’s growing in popularity in part because it can be installed with simple mechanical connections.
Specialty tools for installing PEX are available wherever PEX is sold . The basic set includes a full circle crimping tool. A tubing cutter ,and go/no gauge to test connections after the’ve been crimped . Competing manufacturers make several types of fittings , with Proprietary tools work with their fittings . The tools and fittings you use may differ from those shown n these pages .
PEXis connected to other eater supply materials with transition fittings, including CPVC to PEX copper to PEX and iron to PEX.
Genrally , you should use the dame diameter PEX as is specified for rigid supply tubing but in some “home run” installations .