Plumbing Pipes, PEX Pipes.

Feb 4

Plumbing pipes can be hard, literally. No, but they are hard and confusing to understand when and how to apply them in plumbing situations. Most people do not even know that there are a variety of options when it comes to plumbing pipes. There are copper, plastic, galvanized which are steel pipes, and many more. These may all sound familiar to you but have you heard of PEX? I did not think so, most people are not familiar with PEX. You may be thinking what the heck is PEX? Well, let me tell you because it has a lot of benefits to your plumbing. Once you learn about it, you are going to want to go get some PEX pipes. So stick around to learn about PEX pipes.

What is PEX?

PEX is a cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) tubing, which is a plastic material that is mostly used for water supply piping. Although it is not more commonly known, it provides a couple more advantages over galvanized, steel, PVC, and copper plumbing pipes. What are the advantages of PEX plumbing pipes?

1) It is more flexible than a rigid pipe.
2) PEX has long-term durability and is high in heat-resistance.
3) Since it is made of a resilient material, it is more resistant to breaking from freezing, unlike PVC or copper pipes.
4) Due to its flexibility, it can be easily bent or curved around to make installing easier.
5) Through reducing heat transfer it conserves energy. (Most metal pipes are more prone to heat loss, not conserving energy like PEX).
6) Much more resistant to build up in scale.
7) It does not require as many fittings and connections.
8) It is CHEAPER than copper pipes.

With, all these advantages, I do not see why you would not go for the PEX pipes. These are especially beneficial for beginners. It is easier to use with fewer complications, meaning this can be installed a lot quicker than other pipes for your water supply.

What can PEX be used for?

1) Water supply lines.
2) You can use it for radiant floor heating applications.
3) Sprinkler systems.
4) Hot water applications including radiators.
5) It can be applied to heat transfer applications.

Before you start your project with the PEX pipe, you want to make sure you have all of the correct tools to apply it with. There are also a couple of things to note about using the PEX pipe before you think about using it. You cannot install PEX in hazardous waste disposal sites, petroleum storage tanks, away from flame or extreme heat. You do not want to damage your PEX so to keep it for a long period of time, keep it away from direct or indirect UV light. It is best to stay away from soils that are contaminated and do not use thread compounds, mineral or oil-based products (it can damage the fitting). Another thing to remember is to label!

Label and label again.

Your PEX pipes should be labeled every five feet and here are some you things you need to add to the label:

1) Pipe manufacturer name.
2) CTS is the copper tube size and tube size.
3) You will need the designation code.
4) The specified pressure and temperature.

PEX pipe is pretty cool, right? You should say yes. This is the best choice for amateurs or DIY plumbers. But it may not be for everyone and that is completely okay! If it still intimidating to change the pipes yourself, call a professional to help you out. Sometimes it is just better and easier to call a professional to do the dirty job for you. Well, at least that is what No Worries Rooter is here for.