CPVC is More Effective at Maintaining Water Quality than PEX Third party studies show that
CPVC pipe can withstand higher temperatures than PVC or PEX pipe (up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit vs. 140 degrees Fahrenheit). It's ideal for residential water distribution because it offers better joint strength than PVC and copper and better corrosion resistance versus metal pipes.
PEX and copper are widely considered the best two options. CPVC becomes brittle and should be avoided.
Pex is very susceptible to UVA damage. Pex is semi permeable, meaning liquids can get inside the tubing and contaminate the water inside . Pex is not antibacterial like copper is. Pex cannot be used in high heat areas like around recessed lights or be directly connected to a water heater.
There's also stainless steel, which can be either flexible or rigid and is extremely resistant to corrosion but is even more expensive than copper. If you're planning on repiping your entire house, copper or PEX are going to be your best choices.
The cost to repipe a 2000 sq ft house is between $3,500-$15,000 on average. Some variables that will affect the total cost of the job are the size of the house, the ease of access to the pipes, the material that is used, and if any other plumbing work needs to be done.
Longevity: Because PVC is plastic, it is naturally rust and corrosion-resistant. Unless it gets damaged, it can last for generations. PVC can last even longer than steel or copper, which are some of the most durable metals for plumbing pipes.
Currently, PEX plumbing is one of the most widely used plumbing systems around the world. It was temporarily banned in California for a while due to concerns about toxic materials but this was later disproven by laboratory tests.
Like any other material, multiple factors could lead to problems with PEX. Some of these factors could be simple over-chlorination of the water running through it or dezincification, which could weaken and break down the fittings used on the piping. Another issue could be the piping failing to pass a pressure test.
PEX Pipe Is Vulnerable
Rodents Chewing Through PEX Pipe is a common problem in our area. It doesn't matter how old your home is, if you have an attic, you need to watch for rodent damage to PEX Pipe or PVC. If you're hearing rustling noises coming from the attic, it's time to do an inspection.
The problem with PEX seems to be that it's contaminated -- it leaves the factory with chemicals used in its manufacture still on the pipe. In time it cleans up, but during that time those chemicals are going into the water.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Pipe PVC pipes are widely used in new water main connections. However, PVC is one of the oldest synthetic material in use for many other applications. PVC is thermoplastic and can be softened and molded. This means that PVC pipes are ideal for trenchless construction and installation.
Fragility and Brittleness. ASTM F441 CPVC pipes can become brittle over time, particularly under stress or extreme temperatures. This brittleness makes them more prone to cracking and failure. In colder climates, this issue is exacerbated as pipes can freeze and break easily.
PEX Pipe Class Action Lawsuits
A number of manufacturers, including Uponor, Viega, Nibco and Zurn, have already been sued over their PEX piping products.
PEX: Due to its flexibility and durability, PEX piping should last at least 50 years. PVC / CPVC: Under typical conditions, these pipes should last up to 100 years. Keep in mind that PVC pipes are often used for drainage because extreme heat can damage them.
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.
Some studies suggest that chemicals used in the manufacturing process can leach into the water supply, posing risks to human health. The possibility of chemical leaching from PEX piping into drinking water has been a significant factor in its ban.
PEX pipes are the top option for plumbing in Florida. But that doesn't mean you should automatically pass up a house that uses other materials.
At what temperature will PEX freeze and burst? PEX pipes are extremely burst- and freeze-resistant because of their insulation properties and natural flexibility. However, at certain temperatures, even PEX can no longer stand up to the elements. The temperature cutoff for PEX pipes is around -7°C.
Cross-linked Polyethylene (PEX) pipes are the go-to pipes trusted by plumbers everywhere to safely deliver hot and cold water throughout your home.
Common Causes of PEX Pipe Failures
In addition, extreme bends and kinks place a very high local stress on the wall of the pipe, making it more susceptible to oxidative degradation. This is especially true in southern climates where water chlorine levels run high.
Pex pipes are not as easily recyclable as materials like copper, and the potential for leaching harmful chemicals into the water supply raises concerns about its overall ecological footprint.
Use copper pipes. Copper pipes are long lasting and won't leach chemicals into your drinking water.
PVC is most commonly used for drain, waste, and vent lines. It is not recommended for use in potable water lines because it can leach chemicals into the water.
PVC does not rust, corrode or degrade over time, and work well for your home's sink, toilet, and bathtub. This material is inexpensive and easy to work with, making it one of the most suitable plumbing materials for the main water supply line into your home.