Copper pipes with lead-free joint materials are the best choice for water pipes. They are long-lasting and won't leach chemicals into your drinking water. However, copper pipes are generally more expensive, and copper's intensive extraction and manufacturing process presents some environmental trade-offs.
Linear Low-Density Polyethylene Tubing
Linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) tubing is perfect for potable water, food and beverage, and pneumatic compressed air applications.
Is PEX safe for drinking water? Yes, our PEX-a and PEX-b are both safe for drinking water. Our piping system solutions are all third-party tested through IAPMO or NSF to the following standards: NSF/ANSI 61 drinking water systems components - health effects.
Copper pipes:
Copper pipes are prized for their durability and resistance to corrosion. They are also non-toxic and safe for carrying drinking water.
Environmental impact: PVC pipes are made from synthetic plastic materials, which raises concerns about their impact on the environment. In contrast, PEX pipes do not contain harmful chemicals, making them a more sustainable and eco-friendly option.
Material Concerns: One of the primary concerns about Pex plumbing is the material itself. While Pex pipes are undoubtedly flexible, making them easier to install in tight spaces, they are not as durable as traditional materials like copper or even PVC.
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.
Copper pipes with lead-free joint materials are the best choice for water pipes. They are long-lasting and won't leach chemicals into your drinking water. However, copper pipes are generally more expensive, and copper's intensive extraction and manufacturing process presents some environmental trade-offs.
Ability to handle pressure: PVC can withstand high water pressure, which makes it an excellent choice for the main supply line in your home. Ease of use: Compared to metal pipes, PVC is extremely lightweight. As a result, it is easy to transport and work with.
CPVC pipes: These pipes are made of chlorinated polyvinyl chloride and they are often used in residential plumbing. CPVC pipes are safe for drinking water and they are resistant to corrosion. Installers love them because they are easy to work with. PEX pipes: PEX pipes are made of cross-linked polyethylene.
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 Class Action Lawsuits
A number of manufacturers, including Uponor, Viega, Nibco and Zurn, have already been sued over their PEX piping products.
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.
Hep2o (polybutylene) and PEX (polyethylene) are both suitable for potable water.
Here are my main takeaways: Don't buy hoses made of PVC if you can avoid it. Polyurethane or rubber hoses labeled “drinking water safe” are better options. (More about rubber hoses below.)
Food-grade hoses are made from flexible materials, such as polyurethane, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), or thermoplastic rubber. Additionally, they typically have an internal helical wire made from spring steel or stainless steel that provides strength and durability to the overall assembly.
Beware of gray pipes: Polybutylene is a gray tube that carries potable water through many homes. PB is pretty much the only gray water pipe ever installed in homes. PB tubing found in homes will have a dimeter of 1/2 inch, 3/4 inch, or 1 inch.
Copper Pipes
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.
PVC and CPVC are more cost-effective than PEX if you price clients by the hour, as they require many fittings secured by clamps cement. PVC and CPVC have more strength and durability than PEX because they are more rigid, making them better suited to outdoor applications where the piping may be subjected to trauma.
Avoid using polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC). These pipes contain the highest levels of chemicals of concern and they are typically installed using hazardous solvents.
PEX pipe leaching and contact water toxicity was directly evaluated. Plastic pipe carbon leaching increased with elevated water temperature. Chemicals leached caused microbial growth to increase compared to glass controls. Developing zebrafish exposed to PEX waters exhibited body and brain length changes.
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.
Polybutylene, Galvanized Steel, and Lead Piping: The Worst Plumbing Pipe Materials.
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.
Ajay Pipes stands out in India as a top choice for plumbing, providing durable CPVC, UPVC, and SWR pipes that effectively resist corrosion and meet various plumbing requirements.