Although PEX, or cross-linked polyethylene, is widely used in many parts of the United States for its flexibility and ease of installation, NYC has specific regulations that prohibit its use in plumbing systems.
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.
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.
It was banned because water quality studies showed that chemicals from PEX pipe were leaching into the drinking water. California often bans anything that poisons drinking water, especially if it puts residents at unnecessary exposure to carcinogens or anything that could cause birth defects.
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.
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 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.
Potential PEX Pipe Problems
Drinking water odors, such as that of gasoline, might prompt you to avoid your water altogether. Decreased water quality from toxic chemicals and contaminants leaching into your water. Some leached chemicals may encourage bacteria growth in the pipes.
PEX Plumbing in your Area
Although PEX tubing is approved by all major building codes and major model plumbing codes, it still has not received acceptance with local codes in some parts of the country. For example, PEX tubing has only recently been allowed for use in the state of California.
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.
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.
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.
PEX Pipe Class Action Lawsuits
A number of manufacturers, including Uponor, Viega, Nibco and Zurn, have already been sued over their PEX piping products.
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. Because of its rigidity, PVC is less flexible than PEX. You must install an elbow instead of simply bending it around a right angle.
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.
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.
Replace All Copper With PEX
Cost aside, the best long-term solution is to re-pipe your entire home, replacing copper pipes with PEX.
However, even if the local building code says it's okay, you shouldn't connect PEX directly to a gas water heater. The flue gas that emanates off of the vent pipe can melt PEX, resulting in a catastrophic leak.
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.
PEX often lasts around 50 years. However, PEX is more durable and has more flexibility than PVC and CPVC. Also, because PEX is made from cross-linked polyethylene, it won't corrode.
Based on this analysis, the PEX pipe material examined appears to have good resistance to chlorinated water. References 1. USEPA.
Health Concerns
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.
Many insurance companies are so concerned about this type of plumbing material failing that they will render a home ineligible for coverage even when the main plumbing supply lines are copper or PVC but those short connection lines under the sink are PEX.
Polybutylene pipe was commonly used from 1978 – 1995 and is a gray flexible pipe. PEX is a plastic flexible pipe that comes in white, blue, orange, red and a translucent milky white clear. This piping came about to replace polybutylene plumbing.