Whether PEX is "better" depends on your priorities, as PEX dominates for budget and freeze resistance, while copper excels in longevity and eco-friendliness. Neither is universally superior, but PEX has increasingly become the standard for residential plumbing.
PEX pipe is more resistant to bursting in freezing conditions than metal piping. Because it's flexible, PEX tubing expands rather than splitting, minimizing costly repairs. A long product lifespan reduces cost associated with it, increases customer satisfaction and lessens waste.
PEX plumbing can lead to serious issues such as chemical leaching, susceptibility to rodent damage, and environmental concerns like non-recyclability. While PEX pipes are flexible and cost-effective, they come with a set of challenges that may not be immediately apparent.
Copper costs $2 to $4 per square foot. It's also less expensive to install PEX piping in your home. If you want to save a few bucks, PEX gives you the option to replace only specific sections of your plumbing system since copper and PEX piping are interchangeable.
Health and Safety of Water Pipes
Studies show that PEX pipes can leach certain chemicals into drinking water; some are toxic but not cancer-causing. Copper Pipes: Do not have chemical leaching issues, so they are safer for many homeowners.
Andrew Wolf PEX pipes can leach chemicals, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), and microplastics into drinking water, especially when new. Studies have found chemicals like toluene and antioxidants in water running through PEX pipes.
Copper pipes last about 20 years longer than PEX. They have an average service life between 50 and 70 years. By comparison, PEX pipes only last between 30 and 50 years. Copper pipes have proven reliability and durability that's been solidly substantiated over many years.
PEX has been the industry standard for residential plumbing, but some plumbers are making the switch back to copper. Here's why: Durability – Copper pipes can last 50-plus years, standing up to extreme temperatures and UV exposure better than PEX.
The lifespan of PEX pipes is one of their most appealing features. On average, PEX pipes can last anywhere from 40 to 50 years, and in some cases, even longer.
PEX piping offers numerous benefits that make it an excellent choice for residential plumbing projects. Its flexibility, durability, and cost-effectiveness set it apart from traditional materials like copper, providing homeowners with a reliable and efficient plumbing solution.
PEX pipe is more durable than rigid pipe in cold weather but is still susceptible to burst in extreme conditions. To ensure your PEX lasts through extreme weather, insulate your pipes or use our other tips to keep your pipes at an appropriate temperature.
Rodents, particularly rats and mice, are known to chew through PEX plumbing. Because the material is soft and easy to gnaw, even a small rodent problem can lead to leaks, water damage, and costly repairs hidden inside walls or under floors.
Cost-Effectiveness – PEX typically costs 25-50% less than copper for both materials and installation. The reduced labor time due to easier installation further amplifies these savings.
The acid in the vinegar will clean copper, some have flour or other ingredients to make a paste to keep the acid on the copper. Ketchup and Lemon juice are also acids and will clean copper and brass.
The 135 rule means horizontal drain pipes cannot connect using a fitting that creates more than a 135-degree change in direction. In plain terms, you cannot use a standard short-turn 90-degree elbow between two horizontal drain lines. Plumbers use two 45-degree elbows, a long-sweep 90, or a wye-and-eighth-bend instead.
Current regulatory checks haven't flagged microplastics as a concern with PEX, but the research is still thin. PEX is approved under NSF/ANSI 61, a standard that tests for any contaminants leaching into drinking water at levels above acceptable thresholds.
Thanks to its low cost, performance and ease of installation, about 60% of new plumbing installations today use PEX piping.
PMRs for malignancies of the stomach, kidney, brain, and lymphopoietic system were also elevated, especially among plumbers. Chronic rheumatic heart disease, emphysema, liver cirrhosis, and all external causes of death were the major non-cancer causes with significantly elevated PMRs.
PEX pipes can be damaged by chemicals commonly found in household water supplies. Chemical damage can result in leaks, water damage, and other serious problems. To avoid chemical damage, it's essential to choose PEX pipes that are resistant to the chemicals commonly found in your water supply.
PEX-A is the most flexible and is suitable for use in all home water-supply plumbing needs. It is the most resistant to cracking due to freezing, as it can expand the most. PEX-A is more expensive than B or C, and has no major benefit over PEX-B besides its greater flexibility.
Copper pipes are popular for both hot and cold water pipes because they are heat resistant, resist corrosion, and have natural anti-microbial properties. They are more expensive than plastic pipe options.
Testing Methods to Identify Real Copper
Copper does have a few disadvantages, though. It has become expensive, can still corrode based on pH levels of water, and in cold climates, frozen water can cause copper pipes to burst. PEX installs quickly, which significantly reduces labor costs.