2 Easy Ways To Connect Copper Pipe To Pex

In this video, Shannon shows you how to two easy ways to connect copper plumbing pipe to PEX pipe.
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Video © 2022 SKS Media. Videos produced by SKS Media (House-Improvements.com) are provided for informational purposes only. The information contained in the videos is intended to give general guidance to simplify DIY (do it yourself) projects. Because tools, products, materials, equipment, techniques, building codes and local regulations are constantly changing, SKS Media cannot and does not assume any responsibility or liability for the accuracy of the information contained therein. Further, SKS Media will not accept any claim for liability related to, but not limited to, omissions, errors, injury, damage or the outcome of any project. It is the responsibility of the viewer to ensure compliance with all applicable laws, rules, codes and regulations for a project. The viewer must always take proper safety precautions and exercise caution when taking on any project. If there are any questions or doubt in regards to the element of a project, please consult with a licensed professional. SKS Media conducts all matters in accordance with the laws of Saskatchewan, Canada.
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[@DavidPollack-g9x]

I thought it was going to be difficult to join pex with copper pipe; the gentleman in this video made it easy! He also showed multiple ways to join pex with copper pipe. Thank you!

[@HouseImprovements]

You're welcome, glad it helped!

[@jamessun6103]

I like your video not wasting any time , direct showing what people want to see.

[@boodybandit]

Thank you for keeping it simple. Builds confidence for people like me.

[@eddyflo2978]

This man has one of the best advice, keep coming back to refresh some pointers from time to time.

[@HouseImprovements]

Thanks! Glad my videos are helpful.

[@dinnerwithfranklin]

As always, exactly the information I need. Thanks

[@jazzbonewest]

Thanks, I lacked the confidence to do the job myself. You make it look easy enough. Your explanations are clear and simple. Great video.

[@lorenzocriscuolo7869]

There is a third way too; a brass compression adapter with 5/8” OD to pex ( they have for both pex A or B ), for those who don’t trust push fittings or don’t solder.

[@justanotherhuman1865]

Thank you. I was wondering about those.

[@nobodyisprfct]

Thanks for producing these clips that I can reference to in the future. My memory is declining and I find value in the trust I can depend on in your videos. Direct and to the point.

[@mdevietro]

Excellent info in a snappy form. You actually answered a few questions I had that I was going to check another video for.

[@sunnyroadtrucker1717]

SHORT AND VERY VERY VERY INFORMATIVE VIDEO, EASY TO UNDERSTAND!

[@1cgreiner]

Thank you for the quick and concise video instruction; exactly what I was looking for!

[@rafaeldiazus]

Excellent instructions. Quick and to the point. Thank you!

[@andranika6203]

Pex a Or Pex b Under slub ?

[@jimwalker2775]

Great video - well explained, and even putting in the precautions of the shark bite - perfect. I used Pex-B many years ago, and knew there was a new way, and you nailed it for me. many thanks.

[@gth042]

Cold water pipes used to be used as electrical grounds in some places. I don't know how 'common' this is up there, but it might be worth looking up-circuit from any pex splice repairs in existing copper.

[@vedinthorn]

If it was done by someone competent and forward thinking that ground wire should be right dead near the source pipe, but you never know.

[@stephaniec1549]

Great, precise information. Right to the point. Just like I needed! Thanks!!

[@donniegriffith2986]

hey Shannon really enjoy your videos. question, I know I am going out on a limb here but I want to run about 25 ft of supply line for my air compressor to a hose reel in my garage. I want your thoughts on pvc, it's only a home garage so I would only have the line charged when I needed a finishing nail gun or blow saw dust away and my system has 125 psi output. when i get to checking the psi amounts the pex and pvc both are the same. would the glued joints hold and does the pvc shatter like I hear about thanks for the reply. donnie

[@paulsullivanrealestate]

Excellent. Quick and to the point. Thank you.

[@rdmqwerty]

is there any way to take these connections apart afterwards?

[@gejuarez4848]

Shannon, At 1:50 you state the connections may not be legal to be inside a wall? I thought they were allowed by code. Can you please elaborate?

[@HouseImprovements]

Not everywhere allows them but they are rated to be hidden.

[@My-Say]

Perfect video because I'll be doing exactly this when remodeling my bathroom. Maybe I can rent one of those tools.

[@kgF6BDZ28]

Thanks for the info. And excellent because you didn’t include some irrelevant music for distraction 👍

[@chrislmink]

Can you join pex a pipe to copper with the shark bite connectors or do you have to use the soldered on nipple?

[@HouseImprovements]

Yes shark bites will connect the two pipes.

[@rickyperkins232]

​@@HouseImprovements Is it true that PEX A Uponor has a class action lawsuit because of failure on their pipe and they have changed their warranty from 25 years to 10 years?

[@jonvill2898]

Would it be ok to Sadler on a copper pipe that is connected to pex with a sharkbite?

[@HouseImprovements]

I would not do it within 4 ' unless you remove the shark bite from the copper while you work.

[@spottiesbrand7401]

Great video straight to the point 👍

[@pedrohernandez7934]

Hey shannon you have a video how to change a water valve right after the main with out freezing the water pipe.

[@jonathanwright7991]

I love the new simplicity. Question is can you update old copper with a sharkbite connector after just cleaning up the pipe (emery cloth / sandpaper)? Or do you have to coat it (do to slight exterior corrosion) with something to assure sealing?

[@HouseImprovements]

Buff it up with emery to clean it off and slide on the shark bite.

[@jonathanwright7991]

@@HouseImprovements after 80 grit belt sander paper (all the course I had) and then 150 paper, it slid on easy with no leaks at 70 psi. I appreciate it very much!

[@zedcartwright3037]

Do you need to use a pipe insert inside the copper pipe end when using a quick connect Sharkbite type connector?

[@HouseImprovements]

No copper does not need the insert

[@andranika6203]

Thank you Good explanation Can we use pex pipe outside and under slub

[@HouseImprovements]

Some Pex should not be exposed to sunlight , but many Pex types can be used under concrete slabs .

[@peterbedford2610]

I've used shark bite on copper to pex connections and they're solid. Just make sure to clean copper well and deburr.

[@nazirahmad694]

What is the reliability of sharkbite fittings? I know it’s a new technology but for longevity? It relies on simply o-ring sealing around the pipe.

[@HouseImprovements]

These fitting are approved by international plumbing codes , USA and Canada for behind drywall and under ground. With that being said check your local codes as some local code offices do not accept them to be behind drywall. Here is some more information.www.sharkbite.com/ca/en/resources/blog/myth-vs-fact-a-closer-look-at-sharkbite-behind-the-wall-underground

[@shinyregidrago6272]

One side of the pex has like a white tube in it. What is it for and on what side should it be connected?

[@HouseImprovements]

The white tube is Pex A plumbing pipe. It is used for water lines just like copper pipe . Its the new normal in most areas .

[@PeterHertel]

We use a lot of pex al pex (alupex?) where I live. A compression fitting would be fine for those, no?

[@ThePinkPanth3r]

Why does everyone use the crimp clamps for pex B? I enjoy using the pinch style myself.

[@dickiegreenleaf750]

Great videos. Handsome, knowledgeable, and a real pro. You need your own tv series or This Old House can use you.

[@mattwaters6987]

Really informative and to the point. Thanks for sharing this great video. 👍 😊

[@lanceobrien]

Do I need to remove the plastic insert to connect the copper fitting pipe??

[@HouseImprovements]

You do not need to but you can when installing over copper. It needs to be left in place when used over Pex pipes

[@elmono3939]

FYI: Push-in Fittings are fully approved by both UPC (Unified Plumbing Code) and IPC (International Plumbing Code) covering entire United States. They are also approved for concealed locations without need for access door, and can be buried. Thank you

[@HouseImprovements]

Thanks for the info!

[@SnakePlissken-ki2rw]

That's very good to know. Thanks.

[@PMTcommenter]

The main question is, how have they performed? People who have used them or had them for over 5/10 years? Thats what I care about. I’m not saying they are bad, that’s what I’m planning on using but would like some real world data

[@roberttasca6748]

One thing i would like to mention is that when using the push type connector you need to make sure the end of copper pipe is cut square and then cleaned and deburred. If you leave rough edges the "O" ring which seals the pipe might get cut or damaged and will leak.

[@HouseImprovements]

Yes you are correct, that is very important.

[@angelisone]

so line of water flow has now been reduced, correct? inside diameter will be smaller?

[@HouseImprovements]

With Pex B it will be reduced slightly .

[@Supanova70]

Ever have pex split horizontal on the Domestic HW white pex ``b`` 4 inches below fitting in boiler room? my living room is now destroyed...

[@tristanquintus3200]

Hi Shannon, thanks for the video. I have Heat Link brand 1/2” PEX-c pipe used to connect to my residential baseboard heaters. What method, tool and connector, is used for connecting PEX-c pipe?

[@HouseImprovements]

As far as I know Pex c uses the same connections as standard Pex B (crimp, cinch,pushfit)

[@tristanquintus3200]

@@HouseImprovements- Hey Shannon, thank you for responding to my question and for all the very helpful video you post on your channel.

[@hnoobsho]

Can Pex-B be used with the push style adapter?

[@HouseImprovements]

If you are meaning push fit fittings ...then yes.

[@hnoobsho]

@@HouseImprovements Thanks!

[@91326]

Great video! As a DIY, which do I choose for behind the wall? Is PEX A with slip-on fitting reliable?

[@HouseImprovements]

Pex A is pretty much all I use, but Pex B and Pex A are widely used in the industry

[@williamcthompson7410]

Question... 1/2" copper to 1/2" pex seems suboptimal because the ID of the pex is significantly less than the ID of the copper. that feels like it's cutting down on flow through the pex by constraining it. would it be better to up to 3/4" pex? the ID of 3/4" is bigger than the copper but you're not *reducing* the diameter on the way to the fixtures.

[@HouseImprovements]

Pex B greatly reduces the diameter because the fitting have to go inside the existing pex pipe diameter . Pex A fitting are larger because you stretch the pipe to fit over the fitting. I have other Pex related videos including comparing the two types in my play list.kzbin.info/aero/PLh0KqGKtX4oXU5ZuXO1ucatgPligEyDl9 After that our forum is the place to ask questions.

[@LScofield1]

Always appreciate your videos. Thanks!

[@OGCJ10]

Where did you get the little blue gauge from?

[@HouseImprovements]

Look in the video description for a link.

[@Galvino1000]

Can the shark bite connector be buried in the ground (water line to house) ?

[@HouseImprovements]

Yes but there is a special wrap to put on it before burial .

[@my_dear_friend_]

My existing 1/2" copper pipes are covered in paint from the spray foam installation in the basement. Can I scrape/sand that off or will that compromise the sharkbite connection?

[@HouseImprovements]

Use emery cloth to sand it off , but don't go hog wild.

[@my_dear_friend_]

@@HouseImprovements - Thanks, I will do that. Without going hog wild. ;)

[@marke3623]

👍🏼 thanks for taking the time!

[@timkendell]

thank you so much for this video it saved my A$$!!!! and was simple again thank you

[@StreetManBlogger]

Thanks for sharing, You didn’t mention compression method,

[@HouseImprovements]

I have videos explaining how compression type Pex works. Expansion method is my preferred method.

[@jbuck1975]

Can the push fitting be buried under ground?

[@HouseImprovements]

Shark bite can. Look at their website for instructions of use when placing under ground.

[@jbuck1975]

​@@HouseImprovementsis it the wrapping with the tape (don't know name)

[@thomastommy1192]

Awesome video thumbs up. If you were going to build a new home what type of pipe would you use throughout the home? For water and sewer pipes on the outside?

[@larrylove1]

None just let it flow gold flow

[@larrylove1]

Cpvc or quest pipe is the best

[@lachietzarov2585]

Pvc U for drainage and pe-X for water supply

[@nicolaasvanwyk890]

Can i use the copper crimp rings on pexA?

[@HouseImprovements]

No

[@garret4130]

Do they make a compression (for copper pipe) to pex A fitting?

[@HouseImprovements]

I'm not sure about Pex A but for Pex B there are couple types, here is one.. amzn.to/3PetxFP

[@ZackBurnash]

Thanks 😇

[@kathienordstrom4530]

Where could I get that gauge you use in the beginning of the video

[@HouseImprovements]

Right in the video description under this video

[@Switchleg76]

Is it possible that the pex is slammed to far in?

[@HouseImprovements]

The Pex can not be pushed too far in

[@user-lf7en6rf8m]

Excellent as always

[@Kuya_Raf143]

What is the name of that tools to Expand the fex.pipe???

[@HouseImprovements]

Pex expansion tool. There are links in the video description

[@bigfive5-d5r]

Good video my friend

[@keithduhaime5010]

Does the push connect work with Pex A?

[@HouseImprovements]

Yes.

[@duMaurier15]

Can i use pex for outdoor water? My copper has a huge crack.

[@HouseImprovements]

Pex should not be exposed to sunlight so it is not a good choice for outdoors.

[@duMaurier15]

@@HouseImprovements is copper the only material? I live in the Midwest so we get hot summers and cold winters so i think even copper will eventually crack every couple of years too but with pex it is cheaper and easier to work with.

[@chrisyndo4878]

At the 2:35 mark, what was that? A power drill with what kind of bit? That part did not make sense to me.

[@HouseImprovements]

No that is a Pex A expander tool, made specifically for this job.

[@ynnebbenny]

We live by the sea and our copper pipes are green and pitted with corrosion. I am considering having the Pex system installed to replace the copper. I am wondering it the type b (Compression ring, will corrode itself.

[@HouseImprovements]

I can't say for sure about the corroding but most manufactures for B also have stainless steel ring options that use a cinch tool to tighten them.

[@rogerpedrosa1854]

Thank you for sharing ✌️

[@monsterkxf]

Take out the plastic insert for copper, leave it in for pex 🤘🤘

[@larrylove1]

But do u kn why u do tht

[@DanTheManIOM]

wait, Pex A and Pex B ? stainless crimps and copper crimps, WTH, no reason for this nonsense. - Good video, to the point and very clear ! thank you

[@selvinsagastume9611]

thanks for you'r tips

[@mikechiodetti4482]

Thank you for the info.

[@johnnyreeseiii8189]

Can you do a video on connecting galvanized pipe to pex.

[@lordnibbler88]

💀

[@ronm6585]

Thank you.

[@Falanu]

Perfect if you have a foot or two of copper with a tiny leak. Replace and done.

[@DougDaulton]

Very helpful! Thanks!

[@FixthisCD]

I am liking the viega system better than crimp

[@neomacchio4692]

Good simple video thanks. BUT, one not so minor detail was left out regarding PEX A vs PEX B. PEX A fittings do not bottle neck the water at the fitting/. PEX A fittings have a larger inner diameter. Therefore you can maintain higher water pressure with PEX A if that is important to you. And the reason the fittings are this way is because the pipe is expanded to fit OVER the fitting. With PEX B the fitting is inserted in the pipe therefore reducing the inner diameter at the fitting.

[@HouseImprovements]

You are correct and those points are all covered in my PexA vs. PexB video.

[@DanielHernandez-iw9mx]

Thanks sow much

[@XDNonstop]

Great video👍👍

[@MrBurrbrian]

Can that be buried under ground?

[@HouseImprovements]

Yes , there is a proper procedure for that , look it up on the Sharkbite website.

[@mark_osborne]

Awesome !

[@matthiasmacandrew1267]

Great video! Appreciate the info!

[@CT-um7zq]

are shark bites reliable? im scare to use them

[@HouseImprovements]

I have used 100's for sure in the last 15 -20 yrs. I have had 2 leak and it was right away. Have not had a call back on one yet. I also almost exclusively use the valve versions as well for sinks and ball valves. I like to stick with the name brand (SharkBites). Be sure to debut copper pipe before installing them and to also be sure they are on full depth. Pipe size determines how far they should slide on, check their website for your pipe size. They can have a tendency to feel like they have slid on all the way even when they have not, measure and mark the pipe to be sure every time.

[@armandhammer2235]

I'm going to say without watching that everything Shannon says here is correct. I've been a plumber for over 30 years. Shannon can we get back to carpentry please??

[@HouseImprovements]

Sorry Armandhammer but we are House Improvements and that covers many aspects of our home, so you will get more than carpentry from me.

[@armandhammer2235]

@@HouseImprovements I'm being passive aggressive. Cheers.

[@armandhammer2235]

@@HouseImprovements that last 2 videos have been about Pex A.

[@DerrickDavisToday]

WoW, the carpenter teachers plumbing.

[@jamesfignar1254]

Someone with skills can do anything! Plumbing is not excluded!

[@FlemNmzzzz]

Thank you, voted/sub'd

[@alive-awake]

My plumber cut my copper pipe under my sink behind the shutoff valve nut because he couldn't get the nut loose. Now the copper pipe is too short to put on a shufoff valve. Any other option but to solder on more copper pipe? He didn't try and use any penetrating oil before cutting it off. I'm upset.

[@HouseImprovements]

If he is a plumber he should have no problem soldering an extension of pipe back on. That is the fix.

[@alive-awake]

@HouseImprovements so do not plumbers try using any other means such as penetrating oil to loosen the nut before resorting to cutting off the pipe? They do, as I talked with another plumber and they said they have a few methods. I saw a you tuber who first used CLR and later Buster Blast and it came off.

[@XDNonstop]

I just subscribed😊

[@HouseImprovements]

Thank you, welcome aboard!

[@TheTurbinator]

I definitely prefer a compression fitting over the copper and a nipple on the other. Because if you are buying soldering equipment to solder on a nipple, then you might as well continue soldering the whole thing. And since the push on fitting relies on it never failing I don't quite like them. Compression fittings are the best. You use strong mechanical force to close them and they feel permanent.

[@HipsterDoofus100]

No one asked

[@quakelegion]

@@HipsterDoofus100 No one asked you, either.

[@JHT843]

Girls please. Your bras are on too tight.

[@quakelegion]

@@JHT843 No bra here, I'm a classy broad 😂

[@radcontract]

The Best

[@mattysco]

How strong is it?

[@HouseImprovements]

These are rated for 200 PSI

[@shack6111]

Don't have a gauge...HOW much pipe goes into the fitting???

[@HouseImprovements]

1/2" pipe is 1" deep and 3/4" pipe is 1-1/8" deep

[@elgranjero2284]

👍Thanks

[@costcomember]

Enjoyed your video. One question. I would be doing this for my sprinkler “feeder pipe” which is coming off a 1/2 hp pump. Will I have any leaks because of the pressure? (Can you tell I’ve never done plumbing before? LOL) Thanks in advance for your help!

[@HouseImprovements]

Pex is not for exterior use. Come to our forum if you have more questions.

[@johnharrisonschulz]

I have a friend who converted a PEX crimp tool into a PEX press tool by carefully filing off the end of the tool. Does anyone know of a video of somebody doing this? I asked my friend to share with me how he did it but he's not reliable on replying back in a timely manner.

[@HouseImprovements]

Is that worth it possibly not being perfect enough and causing a poor join?

[@marcfavell]

it dont make sence with push-to-connect brand says 1 inch pipe insertion depth but only goes 3/4 wuth pex b and copper its a misprint i believe 🤷🏼‍♂️

[@edwardalvarado8889]

👍👍👍

[@looking_33]

I don't understand the purpose of the more complicated methods using specialty tools to achieve the same result..? Is there some kind of practical difference that I'm missing?

[@HouseImprovements]

If you are doing a lot of plumbing the other connections are cheaper than these push fit fittings by far.

[@TheSlipperyNoodle]

🤘

[@normandothegreat]

😊👍

[@RodneyD]

Shark bites all day😊😊

[@grizz0109]

sharkbites suck, they leak a lot

[@HouseImprovements]

Then they were not installed correctly. I have seen two leak ever and they leaked right away.

[@peterbedford2610]

I've used a lot of shark bites since 2013. Not one failure yet.