Today, installation errors, chlorine degradation and chemical incompatibility are most likely to be the cause of leaking in or around PEX fittings.
PEX has an unproven track record, with several major PEX manufacturers having changed the materials and design of their systems multiple times after several high-profile fitting failures. Every major PEX manufacturer excludes failures caused by water chemistry from their warranty.
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.
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.
Let's Think About Longevity
Some homeowners may mention how PVC can last around 100 years, and PEX might last half of that. PEX often lasts around 50 years.
Asides for its versatility, the cinch tool is also cheaper than the crimp tool. The cinch rings can be slightly more expensive than crimp rings. A cinch connection will last over 5 years and can last more than 10 years. Crimp connections consist or a crimp ring, a crimp tool, proper fittings and a go/no-go gauge.
Luckily, PEX tubing does not tend to leak. Most leaks occur at joints or are caused by improper installation. Repairing a leak with PEX tubing is easy and relatively inexpensive. The easiest way to repair a pex pipe is by replacing the fittings with brass PEX fittings with copper or stainless steel crimp rings.
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.
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.
CPVC is More Effective at Maintaining Water Quality than PEX
Biofilm Growth Potential: Biofilms, including Legionella and other harmful bacteria, can grow inside residential water pipes.
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.
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.
With a lifespan of 40 to 50 years or more, PEX pipes offer a durable and cost-effective solution for modern plumbing systems. Their resistance to corrosion, ease of installation, and flexibility make them an excellent choice for homeowners and businesses alike.
Due to the problem earlier caused by polybutylene (PEX predecessors) plastic PEX fitting have been recommended. It is true that in areas where water is less acidic, brass fitting is better. But in areas where water is acidic or easily contaminated, plastic fittings are better.
Lower Lifespan Than Other Materials
While PEX plumbing is cheaper upfront, the cost benefits may be negligible when you consider that it might not last as long as copper or other materials. PEX pipes have an average lifespan of about 40-50 years, while copper can last over 70 years.
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.
Plastic pipes, such as CPVC, and PEX are pipe materials that are safe for drinking water.
PEX Pipe Class Action Lawsuits
A number of manufacturers, including Uponor, Viega, Nibco and Zurn, have already been sued over their PEX piping products.
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.
Copper and PEX are the most common pipe materials used in homes. Copper pipes are durable, corrosion-resistant, and can be used for hot and cold water. PEX seems to be replacing copper pipes at a high rate since it is less expensive, more flexible, and easier to install.
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.
Effect of Sunlight on PEX Piping
If exposed to sunlight, the molecular structure disintegrates. This causes the piping to become brittle and rupture.
Testing done that exceeds normative spray foam installation protocols was done to simulate worst case scenarios. In every condition, Genyk spray foam did not weaken or deform the PEX tubing.