To connect your PEX shut-off valve to your sink, you will first need to make sure that you have all of the necessary components, such as the PEX shut-off valve, a pair of wrenches, and teflon tape for sealing the connection.
Next, turn off the water supply to the sink and open the faucet to relieve any pressure in the system. Then, disconnect the existing shut-off valve from the sink. The next step is to use the wrenches to tighten the fittings on the ends of the new PEX shut-off valve.
Once the fittings are properly tightened, wrap the threads of the fittings with teflon tape to ensure a tight seal. Finally, connect the PEX shut-off valve to the plumbing system and turn on the water supply, testing the connection for leaks.
You may need to tighten the connections if there are any leaks, using the wrenches.
How do you connect a PEX to a sink valve?
To connect a PEX pipe to a sink valve, you need to first make sure you have the right type of connection. The most common connections are either a female or a male connection. Once you have identified the type of connection you need, you can start to connect the pipe.
Begin by shuting off the water supply to the sink, then turn on the faucet to ensure all the water has drained out. Now you can begin to connect the PEX on the water shut off valve by threading the PEX connection into the valve.
Use an adjustable wrench to hold the valve steady while the PEX connection is being tightened. Make sure the PEX is being attached securely and there are no gaps or leakages.
Take the other end of the PEX pipe and attach it to the sink. This will either be a male or female connection, depending on the connection type of your sink. Once the PEX is connected to the sink, use an adjustable wrench to tighten the connection.
Double-check for any gaps before ensuring the connection is secure.
Now that the PEX is connected to the sink, you can re-open the water supply and test the faucet to make sure the connection is firm, water-tight and there are no leakages.
How do I connect PEX supply line to faucet?
To connect PEX supply line to a faucet, you’ll need to complete the following steps:
1. Start by shutting off the water supply to the home. This can be done by turning the main water supply at the shut-off valve that is typically located near an exterior wall where the water line enters the home.
2. Once the water is shut off, open up the faucet closest to the main shut off valve so that any remaining water can run out and the lines can depressurize.
3. Connect one end of the PEX supply line to the faucet. This usually requires a wrench to loosen the connection and then the PEX tubing can be inserted into the threaded fitting on the faucet. It should be done according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
4. Insert the other end of the PEX supply line into the water supply line. Attach a brass fitting to the water supply line with a wrench and then insert the PEX tubing into the outlet of the fitting.
5. To ensure a strong and leak-free connection, insert a sleeve or ferrule over the PEX tubing when connecting it to the shut off valve or faucet.
6. Turn the water supply back on and check for any leaks at the connections. If necessary, tighten or adjust the connections as needed.
7. Test the faucet and all connections to make sure the supply line is securely connected and the faucet is working as it should.
Once you have followed these steps and tested the connections, your PEX supply line should be securely connected and the faucet should be working correctly.
How do you install a shut off valve on an existing water line?
Installing a shut off valve on an existing water line is a relatively easy job if you have the right tools and knowledge. Here are the steps to complete the installation:
1. First, you’ll need to shut off the water supply at the main shutoff valve.
2. Once that is done, locate the area on the existing water line where you will be installing the new valve.
3. Once you have located the area, turn off the power to the area and use an adjustable pipe wrench to loosen the fittings on the existing pipe, then remove the entire section of pipe.
4. Next, measure the new shut off valve to ensure it will fit properly in the space provided and make sure the pipe’s connections properly align with the shutoff valve.
5. Use Teflon tape to wrap the underside threads of the incoming and outgoing connections, then attach them to the shutoff valve.
6. Once the shutoff valve is in place, turn on the water supply and check for any leaks and make sure the valve is working properly.
7. Finally, turn on the power to the area and you are done!
What is the method for connecting PEX?
The method for connecting PEX, a type of cross-linked polyethylene plumbing tubing, is a slightly more involved process than that of traditional copper piping but is far less labor-intensive. The primary method for connecting PEX piping involves the use of crimp rings, also known as clamp rings or cinch rings, which compress the inside of the pipe around the barbed ends of the fitting.
This connection is then secured with a specialized PEX clamping tool. The first step of the process is to measure and cut your piping to the desired length. After cutting the pipe, it is important to inspect the cut end, as any burrs or sharp edges may potentially puncture the pipe’s outer layer and cause a leak.
In order to ensure a secure seal, the pip needs to be chamfered or beveled at the opening. The barb end of the fitting is slightly larger than the opening of the pipe and is designed to create an interference fit.
To finish the connection, a crimp ring is placed over the pipe and the fitting and then compressed with a Manual or Battery operated Crimping tool. Once the crimp ring is compressed and secured, the connection is complete.
Can you use SharkBite on PEX?
Yes, you can use SharkBite on PEX. SharkBite manufactures a large line of certified PEX fitting products that have been designed and tested to provide an easy and secure connection for PEX tubing. SharkBite’s PEX fitting products are compatible with most major manufacturer’s PEX pipe, including ProPEX, ApolloPEX, ViegaPEX, Uponor’s Wirsbo, and Nibco’s PEX.
In addition, the fittings can be used in both hot and cold water systems, allowing for a complete overall installation from SharkBite products. Their PEX fitting line includes standard PEX fittings, stainless steel PEX fittings, brass PEX fittings, and PEX manifolds, in addition to PEX installation tools, such as PEX crimp tools, PEX cutters, and other accessories.
SharkBite PEX fittings make connections to PEX tubing with just a simple push, reducing installation time up to 50% compared to standard PEX fittings. This makes the connections between pipes and fittings much easier while helping to eliminate potential leak points.
What should you not do with PEX?
PEX pipe is a reliable and safe type of plumbing material, however, there are certain actions that should not be taken with it in order to ensure its effectiveness and longevity. Here are some things you should not do with PEX:
1. Don’t use sharp tools for cutting PEX – avoid using any type of scissors, cleaver, or razor blades. Use only a PEX tubing cutter to ensure a clean cut.
2. Don’t over-tighten PEX fittings – all connections should be hand-tightened and no longer than one turn after hand-tightening.
3. Don’t use screws, bolts, or nails with PEX. Nails and screws can puncture the pipe, and bolts will loosen over time.
4. Don’t store PEX in the sun or in a hot car. PEX is made of a synthetic material and extreme heat can cause it to expand and soften, making it less effective.
5. Don’t use abrasive or aggressive cleaner with PEX – most chemical cleaners are damaging to the synthetic material, so only use mild cleaners such as detergent and a damp cloth.
6. Don’t use PEX for radiant heat – use PEX-AL-PEX instead. This version is designed for radiant floor and wall heating applications.
Do plumbers recommend PEX?
Yes, many plumbers recommend PEX for a variety of reasons. PEX (short for cross-linked polyethylene) is a flexible tubing material that has been used in residential and commercial plumbing for the past several decades.
It is often chosen over metal pipes because of its flexibility, lower cost, and ease of installation. Plumbers often recommend PEX for many of its advantages, including its durability, resistance to corrosion, and ease of connection via crimp or compression fittings.
PEX is particularly helpful for installation in tight spaces, or for renovations of existing homes, where metal pipes can be difficult to install. Additionally, PEX is often used for hydronic systems including radiant floor heating – a popular installation in homes.
In general, plumbers recommend PEX because it is an economical and durable solution that is preferred by many homeowners.
How many years does PEX pipe last?
The exact number of years that PEX pipe will last is hard to predict, as it depends on the pipe’s installation, maintenance and material composition. Generally, PEX pipe can be expected to have a long lifespan, with most PEX pipe manufacturers offering a minimum of 40-50 years of usage when properly installed and maintained.
Additionally, some pipe manufacturers have warranty programs covering up to 100 years of usage when their products are installed correctly. Factors such as temperature extremes, exposure to sunlight, improper installation and wear-and-tear all contribute to a PEX pipe’s longevity.
It is, therefore, important to research and assess the longevity of PEX pipe offerings, and always follow installation instructions carefully.
Will mice chew on PEX tubing?
Mice may chew on PEX tubing, however, it is not a preferred material for them to feed on. PEX tubing is made of a cross-linked polyethylene, which is a hard, dense material that is not an ideal food source for mice.
They may chew on it if they are very hungry or if they are trying to make a nest, but it would not be the first material they seek out. If mice do chew on PEX tubing, it will chip and break away, potentially creating sharp edges.
While not preferred, it is important to consider preventive measures to mitigate them from accessing any areas. This may include exclusion techniques, traps, and/or rodenticides.
How likely is it for PEX to burst?
It is not likely for PEX to burst because it is a flexible tubing material that can be placed in areas where hard pipes may not be suitable. The material used in PEX pipe is crosslinked polyethylene and is designed to resist the expansion and contraction that comes with changes in temperature and pressure.
It also has a high burst strength which makes it less likely than copper or PVC pipes to burst in the event of sudden, drastic changes in temperature or water pressure. PEX piping is also strong, flexible and resistant to corrosion, which further prevents it from bursting.
The key to preventing a burst is to make sure that the PEX pipes are correctly installed and maintained to ensure longevity.
Can you connect PEX directly to faucet?
No, you can’t connect PEX directly to a faucet. PEX pipes are used to supply water to outlets in a home including faucets, but they cannot be connected directly to them. Instead, the PEX must be connected to other components, such as a shutoff valve and a water supply adapter, before being connected to the faucet.
Shutoff valves provide an easy way to turn off the water supply to a particular fixture if needed. The water supply adapter provides a connection point between the PEX tube and the faucet. Additionally, PEX tubing must be connected to faucet fittings and valves with specialized fittings.
These special fittings include clamps, crimp rings, and cinch clamps.
Can you use PEX for bathroom faucet?
Yes, PEX can be used for bathroom faucets. PEX is an effective and popular plumbing pipe option, particularly for potable water lines. It’s cost-effective, durable, and flexible, making it easier to work with than other types of plumbing pipe.
It’s available in two types of tubing – red and blue – and both are suitable for bathroom faucets. When using PEX for bathroom faucets, it’s important to consider factors such as the size of the faucet hole and the length of the PEX pipe needed.
Additionally, when connecting the PEX pipe to the faucet, you’ll need to use a sharkbite fitting, which is a quick and easy way of connecting PEX plumbing pipe to a faucet. Professional plumbers may also recommend the use of PEX sleeves when connecting PEX to the faucet, which can further strengthen the connection and make the installation more secure.
Overall, PEX is an ideal option for bathroom faucets.
Is PEX OK for drinking water?
PEX, which is short for cross-linked polyethylene, is a type of plastic plumbing pipe that has become popular in recent years due to its flexibility and relatively low cost. When it comes to drinking water, PEX is an acceptable material, as long as it has been approved for potable water use by the local building code or by local health agencies.
The primary concern when it comes to using PEX for drinking water is whether the material contains phthalates, chemicals that can leach into the drinking water and pose a health risk. Therefore, it is important to check the manufacturer’s data sheet to ensure that the piping material does not contain phthalates.
In addition, PEX must be properly installed and maintained according to manufacturer’s instructions to help reduce the risk of contamination.
Why is PEX not allowed?
PEX, or cross-linked polyethylene piping, is not allowed in some areas due to concerns about its durability and safety in certain types of applications. While PEX is a popular alternative to copper for plumbing installations, some local building codes and national standards organizations have raised concerns about its use in specific situations.
The primary concern with using PEX is it may not be able to withstand higher temperatures, particularly in hot water applications. If the temperature of the water exceeds the maximum recommended limit for PEX, the pipe may begin to degrade and deteriorate.
This may lead to pinhole leaks or create a risk of failure in extreme cases. Insufficient pressure-testing of connections may also become a safety hazard if a connection suddenly fails and water is released.
In addition, PEX tubing is not approved for use in high-pressure applications, making it an unsafe option for water mains in some cases.
Another potential issue with PEX is its susceptibility to UV ray damage when exposed to the sun. This can reduce the life span of the pipe and increase the risk of leakage, making it vulnerable to rust and corrosion over time.
For these reasons, many local and national building codes have banned the use of PEX or severely limited its applications, especially in hot water systems.