Over the years, PEX tubing has become a popular choice for homeowners and DIY enthusiasts due to its numerous advantages over traditional metal pipes. Not only is it corrosion and freeze-resistant, but it is also cheaper and easier to install. This colorful plastic tubing has been in use in the United States since the 1980s, and its popularity has only continued to grow. Whether you are working on a kitchen plumbing project or simply want to replace old pipes, PEX tubing can help prevent leaks and contamination in your water supply.
Additionally, it eliminates the noise produced by water passing through metal pipes, making it a quieter option. However, with different types of PEX tubing available, it can be challenging to choose the best one for your specific project. Therefore, this guide will provide you with all the necessary information about PEX tubing and its uses to help you make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
What is Pex Tubing
PEX tubing is a type of plastic tubing made of cross-linked polyethylene. It is a flexible material that is suitable for use in hot and cold water systems. PEX tubing is available in different colors, including red, blue, and white, to make it easy to identify hot and cold water supply lines. It is also available in different sizes ranging from ΒΌ inch to 2 inches in diameter. PEX tubing is a popular alternative to traditional metal pipes due to its ease of installation, flexibility, durability, and cost-effectiveness.
Types of Pex Tubing
PEX tubing comes in three different types: PEX-A, PEX-B, and PEX-C. These types differ in the manufacturing processes used to make them and their respective properties.
PEX-A
PEX-A is the most expensive type of PEX tubing due to its manufacturing process. It is made using the Engel method, which involves melting the polyethylene and cross-linking it using peroxide. This process produces a more uniform and consistent cross-linking throughout the tubing, resulting in a stronger and more flexible material. PEX-A is ideal for radiant floor heating and other applications that require high-temperature resistance.
PEX-A Pros:
- Consistent and uniform cross-linking throughout the tubing
- Strong and flexible material
- Ideal for high-temperature applications
PEX-A Cons:
- Expensive compared to other types of PEX tubing
- Requires special fittings and tools for installation
PEX-B
PEX-B is the most commonly used type of PEX tubing. It is made using the Silane method, which involves cross-linking the polyethylene using a chemical reaction. PEX-B tubing is less expensive than PEX-A and has good flexibility and durability. It is ideal for plumbing applications and can withstand temperatures up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
PEX-B Pros:
- Most commonly used type of PEX tubing
- Good flexibility and durability
- Ideal for plumbing applications
- Can withstand temperatures up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit
PEX-B Cons:
- May have inconsistent cross-linking
- Can become brittle over time if exposed to UV light
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PEX-C
PEX-C is the newest type of PEX tubing and is made using the Electron Beam method, which involves exposing the polyethylene to high-energy electrons. This process creates a more consistent cross-linking throughout the tubing and results in a material that is more resistant to stress cracking. PEX-C tubing is ideal for high-pressure applications and can withstand temperatures up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.
PEX-C Pros:
- More resistant to stress cracking compared to other types of PEX tubing
- Ideal for high-pressure applications
- Can withstand temperatures up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit
PEX-C Cons:
- Relatively new in the market, so its long-term durability is not fully tested
- May require special fittings and tools for installation
Uses of Pex Tubing
PEX tubing is a versatile material that has many uses, which has made it a popular choice for both homeowners and professionals. Its flexibility, durability, and cost-effectiveness have made it an ideal alternative to traditional metal pipes. PEX tubing is suitable for use in various applications, including plumbing, heating, radiant floor heating, and snow melting systems.
Plumbing
PEX tubing is an excellent choice for plumbing because it is resistant to corrosion and scale buildup, which can cause blockages and leaks in metal pipes. It also has a smooth interior surface, which promotes better water flow and reduces the likelihood of clogs. PEX tubing is available in different sizes and colors, making it easy to install and identify hot and cold water supply lines. Additionally, PEX tubing can be installed using fewer fittings than traditional metal pipes, which can reduce the risk of leaks and save on installation costs.
Heating
PEX tubing is also suitable for use in heating systems. It can be used in place of traditional metal pipes in baseboard heating systems or in combination with a boiler or furnace. PEX tubing can withstand high temperatures and is resistant to freeze damage, which makes it an ideal choice for heating systems in colder climates.
Radiant Floor Heating
Radiant floor heating is a popular heating option that uses PEX tubing embedded in the floor to provide heat. The tubing is connected to a boiler or furnace and circulates hot water through the tubing, which heats the floor and radiates heat throughout the room. Radiant floor heating is energy-efficient and can be used with various flooring materials, such as tile, concrete, and wood.
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Snow Melting Systems
PEX tubing can also be used in snow melting systems. These systems use PEX tubing embedded in the ground to circulate hot water, which melts snow and ice on driveways, sidewalks, and other outdoor surfaces. Snow melting systems can be installed in residential and commercial properties and can reduce the need for snow removal equipment and chemicals.
PEX Tubing fittings list
PEX tubing is a flexible and versatile material that has many applications. However, to connect PEX tubing to other components of a plumbing or heating system, fittings are needed. There are different types of PEX tubing fittings available, each with its unique features and benefits. This are most common types of PEX tubing fittings and their uses.
Crimp Fittings
Crimp fittings are the most popular type of PEX tubing fittings. They are made of brass or copper and use a crimping tool to compress a metal ring around the tubing and fitting, creating a secure connection. Crimp fittings are ideal for use in plumbing and heating applications and can be used with PEX-A, PEX-B, and PEX-C tubing.
Clamp (or Cinch) Fittings
Clamp fittings, also known as cinch fittings, are another type of PEX tubing fitting. They use a stainless steel ring and a clamp tool to compress the ring around the tubing and fitting, creating a secure connection. Clamp fittings are easy to install and can be used with PEX-A, PEX-B, and PEX-C tubing.
Push-to-Connect (or SharkBite) Fittings
Push-to-connect fittings, also known as SharkBite fittings, are a popular option for DIY enthusiasts. They use a specially designed brass fitting and a push-to-connect mechanism to create a secure connection without the need for any tools. Push-to-connect fittings are easy to install and can be used with PEX-A, PEX-B, and PEX-C tubing.
Expansion Fittings
Expansion fittings use a specially designed PEX tubing expanding tool to create a secure connection. The tool expands the tubing and fitting, allowing them to fit tightly together. Once the tubing and fitting have cooled, they form a secure connection. Expansion fittings are ideal for use in plumbing and heating applications and can be used with PEX-A tubing.
Compression Fittings
Compression fittings use a brass or copper compression nut to secure the tubing to the fitting. They are easy to install and can be used with PEX-A, PEX-B, and PEX-C tubing. Compression fittings are ideal for use in plumbing and heating applications, especially in tight spaces where crimp or clamp fittings may be challenging to install.
Ball Valves
Ball valves are used to control the flow of water in a plumbing or heating system. They are available in different sizes and can be used with PEX-A, PEX-B, and PEX-C tubing. Ball valves are ideal for use in applications where the flow of water needs to be shut off, such as during repairs or maintenance.
Angle Stops
Angle stops are used to control the flow of water to a specific fixture, such as a sink or toilet. They are available in different sizes and can be used with PEX-A, PEX-B, and PEX-C tubing. Angle stops are ideal for use in plumbing applications where the flow of water needs to be controlled.
Conclusion
PEX tubing is a popular choice for plumbing and heating systems due to its flexibility, durability, and ease of installation. The three main Types of Pex Tubing , namely PEX-A, PEX-B, and PEX-C, have unique features that make them suitable for different applications. PEX-A has the highest flexibility and can withstand the most significant temperature changes, while PEX-B is the most commonly used type and is highly resistant to chemicals. PEX-C is the most affordable option and is ideal for low-temperature applications.
