While more burst-resistant than copper, in extremely low temperatures, when water completely freezes in the pipes, PEX pipes are still susceptible to bursting. Over-chlorination of water. Water containing high levels of chlorine is highly aggressive, especially when the water is hot.
They hate PEX because it's MORE reliable than copper, and much faster/easier to install = less money for them. It's also much less expensive which means they don't make as much on materials if they charge that way.
PEX pipes are very thick but they are still susceptible to rodent damage that can cause pipes to crack or break. Possible Leaching: Although uncommon, some homeowners and plumbing companies have reported a few PEX pipes leaching harmful contaminants like BPA (Bisphenol A) into the water supply.
PEX pipe can be used as a service line based on its corrosion resistance to soil and water, its long life and its oxidative resistance. Our PEX pipe is not suitable for use in areas where the soil is or may become contaminated, including soil used for backfilling.
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.
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 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.
Plastic pipes, such as CPVC, and PEX are pipe materials that are safe for drinking water.
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.
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.
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.
Copper pipes remain popular among plumbers and homeowners alike because they are corrosion-resistant and best suited to protect the quality of the water. Copper pipes are able to handle high water pressure and are tolerant of both hot and cold water temperatures.
Based on this analysis, the PEX pipe material examined appears to have good resistance to chlorinated water. References 1. USEPA.
Of course, PEX piping does carry some disadvantages. It will crack and break apart under the influence of strong UV rays (making it unsuitable for most outdoor use). Plumbers require specialized tools to cut and join this type of modern pipe. Additionally, disposing of used PEX pipe sometimes proves problematic.
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.
PEX Pipe Class Action Lawsuits
A number of manufacturers, including Uponor, Viega, Nibco and Zurn, have already been sued over their PEX piping products.
Extreme bends and kinks place a very high local stress on the wall of the pipe making the pipe susceptible oxidative degradation. This is especially true in southern climates where the chlorine levels run high. This PEX pipe was bent beyond its limit and developed a leak at the stress point.
Copper has been a standard plumbing pipe material since the 1960s, and with good reason. First, copper is the preferred choice from a safety standpoint because it preserves drinking water quality. Unlike galvanized steel or cast iron, copper is corrosion-resistant and doesn't leach rust or sediment into the water.
It'll work in the real world, but the manufacturer does not recognize this as a transition. So if you're a contractor transitioning from PEX-A to PEX-B, you should ask the manufacturer about how they want you to make this transition Get it in writing, so it doesn't void your warranty.
PEX pipe is not approved for outdoor applications and is not approved for continuous UV exposure. PEX pipe should not be stored in direct sunlight.
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.
Bacteria
This mostly happens when PEX pipes are installed deep under the ground and vulnerable to moisture. In extreme cases, the bacteria caused by moisture can penetrate inside the PEX pipes and contaminate the water.
It's a good idea to install 1/2-inch or 3/4-inch PEX for your main lines for adequate water flow. When replacing old water supply lines with PEX the standard is to use the same size plumbing, although you can transition from 3/4-inch to 1/2-inch plumbing with an adapter.
With a life span that's 20 to 30 years longer than PEX pipe, copper is the clear winner. Properly maintained copper pipes can be expected to last 50 to 70 years. PEX pipes that are properly maintained generally last for 25 to 50 years.
However, by providing them an easy to find water source (like a dog bowl) temporarily while trying to exterminate them, this will help you remove their motivation to chew through the pipes to get water. This is especially important if you're using poison to kill the rodents, because poison dehydrates them.