Common Causes of PEX Pipe Failures PEX piping has a maximum bend radius, which can lead to stress on the pipe caused by improper installation. 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.
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.
On average, PEX pipes can last anywhere from 40 to 50 years, and in some cases, even longer. This impressive durability is due to the material's resistance to corrosion, scaling, and chlorine, as well as its ability to withstand high temperatures and pressures.
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.
Defective Manufacturing ISSUES
Some PEX pipe manufacturers use cost-cutting processes which lead to pipes that aren't uniform in composition and are defective. Defective PEX pipes will not last 50+ years as advertised and quickly degrade and become brittle when exposed to hot chlorinated water.
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.
The use of PEX piping can be detrimental to household water quality PEX piping is known to leach regulated gasoline components such as MTBE, ETBE, TBA and Toluene into drinking water.
Longevity. In the right conditions, PVC pipes can last upwards of 70 years. Both ABS and PEX pipes have about 40-50 years of life.
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.
Caution: Do not use Uponor AquaPEX piping to connect the tub and shower valve to the tub downspout as this may create excessive back pressure in the valve, causing it to remain slightly open. I have always known pex to outflow copper...
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.
PEX Pipe Class Action Lawsuits
A number of manufacturers, including Uponor, Viega, Nibco and Zurn, have already been sued over their PEX piping products.
Today, installation errors, chlorine degradation and chemical incompatibility are most likely to be the cause of leaking in or around PEX fittings.
Although there are some convincing myths about SharkBite, the truth is that these fittings can be trusted and used in concealed spaces.
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.
Quality of Water. One of the biggest downsides of PEX plumbing is that some of them affect the taste and odor of water. It's important to know about this risk before installing PEX water lines in your house. In some cases, the smell and taste are so unpleasant, that people have to replace the pipes all over again.
PVC can last even longer than steel or copper, which are some of the most durable metals for plumbing pipes. Ability to handle pressure: PVC can withstand high water pressure, which makes it an excellent choice for the main supply line in your home.
Some homeowners may mention how PVC can last around 100 years, and PEX might last half of that. 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.
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.
In most cases, PEX is extremely durable and lasts up to 50 years or more. PEX piping is also less likely to crack or break than metal pipe because it does not expand and contract as much when heated and cooled.
Cross-linked Polyethylene (PEX) pipes are the go-to pipes trusted by plumbers everywhere to safely deliver hot and cold water throughout your home.
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 more durable than rigid pipe in cold weather but is still susceptible to burst in extreme conditions.