Yes, you can use a crimp tool on PEX-A tubing, provided you use standard PEX crimp fittings (either brass or poly) secured with copper crimp rings or stainless steel cinch clamps.
Yes, you can absolutely use standard crimp or clamp fittings on PEX-A pipe. However, because PEX-A is highly flexible, you must use standard copper crimp rings or stainless steel cinch clamps. You cannot use PEX-A expansion rings on crimp fittings.
Use PEX-B if you are strictly planning to use the crimp (or clamp) method. While you can crimp PEX-A, PEX-B is designed specifically for it. PEX-B is more rigid, holds a crimp securely, and is generally more affordable for DIY projects.
If your PEX-A expansion fittings are leaking, it is typically caused by one of a few common installation errors, environmental degradation, or material defects.
SharkBite PEX-A pipe and expansion fittings are an excellent system for plumbing jobs, offering many more advantages than rigid pipe. This system has superior flexibility, eliminates missed connections and is compatible with expansion, crimp and push-to-connect fittings.
PEX-A pipe fittings utilize an "expansion" connection method, which relies on the pipe’s elastic memory to shrink back down around a fitting for a secure, leak-free seal. These fittings are typically used alongside specialized expansion rings, lead-free brass, or engineered polymer (PPSU) barbs.
SharkBite manufactures both PEX-A and PEX-B piping. You can buy either depending on your plumbing project's needs.
However, recent failures and the lawsuits that have followed those failures lead to the idea that PEX plumbing systems aren't as good as once assumed. PEX systems can fail in either the pipe or in the fitting. The most notable failure occurs when the fittings fail and water starts leaking and causing visible damage.
In the absence of any directive from the instructions, if conventional wisdom says to wait 20 minutes, then that seems reasonable. Unless you're making a repair, 99% of your fittings will have had a 20+ minute "rest" prior to pressurizing the water supply system.
Insurance companies sometimes hesitate to cover homes with PEX plumbing because of past class-action lawsuits regarding defective brass fittings, a history of premature failures, and ongoing debates over how certain pipes react to harsh water chemistry.
Yes, many professional plumbers use PEX A, but it is not the only option. The plumbing industry is split between PEX A and PEX B, with preferences varying based on the region, the plumber's training, and the specific application.
Common PEX crimping mistakes typically involve poor pipe preparation, improper tool alignment, or skipping the joint verification process. These errors often cause leaks, low water pressure, or system failure over time.
In most cases, it is better to bend PEX rather than use an elbow. Bending PEX requires less labor, saves money on parts, and eliminates potential leak points.
Yes, you absolutely need a specialized tool to secure PEX fittings. However, the exact tool required depends on the connection method you choose:
PEX does not corrode like copper or galvanized steel, making it a reliable long-term option. It is also more resistant to mineral buildup, which is especially important in areas where hard water can impact plumbing systems.
To tell if your PEX tubing is PEX A or PEX B, you can check the printed labels, observe the fittings used, or inspect the pipe's flexibility and transparency.
Yes, PEX-A can absolutely be crimped. While PEX-A is most famous for its ability to be expanded for ProPEX/Uponor-style fittings, it is highly versatile and fully compatible with traditional PEX crimp rings (copper or stainless steel) and brass or poly barb fittings.
The ideal water pressure for a 2,000 sq ft home is between 40 and 60 psi (pounds per square inch), with 50 psi widely considered the optimal "sweet spot" for balancing strong flow with appliance safety. The International Residential Code dictates that pressure should never exceed 80 psi.
In plumbing, the "135-degree rule" is a code standard that dictates how much a horizontal drain pipe can bend or change direction. It limits the total cumulative angle of pipe fittings before a system requires an access point (cleanout) or must be vented, ensuring proper flow and preventing chronic clogs.
Did you know that PEX piping is used in about 60% of new construction projects to date? This makes it a prevalent material used in new buildings.
PEX pipes typically last 40 to 50 years under normal residential conditions, though certain high-quality types are designed to stretch past 100 years. Most manufacturers back the tubing with a 25-year warranty.
A complete PEX repipe for a 2000 sq. ft. house typically costs between $𝟓,𝟎𝟎𝟎 and $𝟏𝟐,𝟎𝟎𝟎, with most homeowners spending around $𝟕,𝟎𝟎𝟎 to $𝟗,𝟎𝟎𝟎. This estimate includes all supply lines, water main replacements, basic permits, and moderate drywall repair, but can vary by location and layout.
Yes, you can physically reuse SharkBite push-to-connect fittings. However, there are major rules and limitations you need to follow so you don't end up with a leak.
There is no universal "best" PEX, but PEX-A is generally considered the highest quality, while PEX-B is the most popular choice for budget and chlorine resistance. PEX-C is rarely used due to stiffness and kinking issues.
When properly installed, SharkBite fittings are rated to last 20 to 25 years. The manufacturer backs them with a 25-year warranty, and many plumbers consider them a permanent solution approved for use behind walls and underground.