Beginners Guide To SHARKBITE Fittings (Watch till end BEFORE Buying!) | GOT2LEARN

[@jeffpiatt3879]

One of the best videos of all time! Not kidding! To all KZbinrs out there- note these features: 1. No obnoxious music (or any music) in the background. 2. No obnoxious "flash screens", quick transitions, drop screen to black and light up again transitions, etc. This content is very comfortable to watch. 3. Clear, understandable speech- see item 1 above, as well. 4. Content is well organized and formatted.

[@Got2Learn]

🤯🤯🤯

[@455buick6]

So you can't hear the music in the background, because it's there 😯

[@jeffpiatt3879]

I can't hear it, which means that it's "just right." 🙂@@455buick6

[@karenrose2260]

I agree. Clear and consider speaking!💖

[@Got2Learn]

@@karenrose2260 Thanks!!!

[@michaellauinger7406]

Installed sharkbites in my bathroom about 13 years ago, 1st plumbing thing I ever did, all with maybe just a brief read of the instructions, and of course some prayer, and they are still working great.

[@georgemoomaw9437]

What an organized, methodical tutorial. Great job. Thank you. I am a 76 year old retired HVAC service tech / installer. It is time for me to install a water powered back up sump pump. The pump I purchased has a shark bite inlet connection. My plan was to pitch it and sweat all the needed connections for the pump and new water line. I then decided to check into these things. Although being retired and working on my own home means time is not my concern, lazy is a big factor. Once again THANK YOU!!

[@Got2Learn]

You are welcome! ☺

[@DougHoshauer-d9q]

Bewhere shark bites will leak after they freeze a couple times

[@markbaker980]

I have been using John Guest QuickFit connectors for 38 years now hot and cold water and heating, copper and pex pipes. Never had a single leak at a joint, including those that are over 30 years old. I preferred the original JG connectors because they are smaller and click straight away. The new ones have the locking nut, which a don’t really think is needed. The new ones do have the advantage of easy of disassembly, so you can replace to o rings if you need to. I have a box of used fittings; they will have been used again and again, often to put in temporary plumbing while repairs or remodelling is happening. Never thrown one away. They are certified for hidden/in-wall use in most of the world, and I have no hesitation using them in any location. I haven’t used Sharkbites, but it is the same company as JG. I guess the brass body is a comfort for some users who are suspicious of plumbing in plastic. Sharkbites are difficult to remove compared to Speedfit, which is why I have never used them, but I don’t doubt they make a good long lasting joint. My question is: why do compression fittings still exist?

[@XennialGuy]

Used six of them 15 years ago on a fixer upper that had burst pipes. So far, none have failed. One of them I had to remove a few times over the years and reuse it and it still hasn't failed. And this is in a home that sees brutal winters and brutal summers.

[@wintercoder6687]

Eight years ago, heating went out for a couple vacation homes where I live. The house fitted with copper had destroyed connections throughout the hose. Serious water damage. The house fitted with Sharkbite fittings had some 'stretched' pex, but NO leaks... NO failed Sharkbite fittings. After seeing those results, when I remodeled my house, adding 1 1/2 bathrooms, a sauna and extra tubs in the basement, I used Sharkbite throughout. Extremely easy... and I took my time to make sure EVERY pipe was properly squared, properly cleaned before insertion. I may never sweat copper again.

[@Got2Learn]

Niceeee, thanks for your input :)

[@fh3486]

You are crazy sir. I would be going crazy checking for leaks when using that many Bites throughout the house

[@RCColorado]

This just saved me a small fortune when working on my backflow system from my sprinklers. 100x easier for me to just cut the pipe, installed and thread in my ball valve, and then connect the pipe again with the Sharkbite. For $8 I just saved myself a $150 plumber visit - thank you!

[@frankthetank1369]

I worked for a guy doing irrigation in Cape Cod Massachusetts he said you need a plumber to install a back flow. Im in Tampa Florida now i heard you don't need one.

[@chriscrescioli9492]

I came across these when I made a hole in 1 inch irrigation pipe. The pipe was buried a foot deep, next to 3 other lines and the break was an inch from a 90 degree elbow. It would have taken a huge amount of labor to carefully dig up enough line to glue in the parts to fix this nightmare! I found an 18 inch long, one inch repair tube, used a jigsaw to cut the irrigation tube, wrapped a homemade jig and used a file to get a flat end and plugged the bendable repair hose right on. This bypassed the mess of other pipes and trying to cut the proper parts for a 90 degree replacement. I have left the pipes uncovered for a year now to make sure it wouldn’t leak. This is a great product! And definitely follow the proper install prep described in this video!

[@sbdivemaster118]

This video is excellent. Clear speaking, quality images, no wasted time. Never checked the time the whole video. Thanks!

[@Got2Learn]

🤗🤗🤗

[@StoptheLie]

A very informative clip. This guy knows what he's talking about. Most home owners screw up everything they try repairing.

[@StoptheLie]

In the 70's I was an apprentice pipefitter and my boss who was the owner, always told me he wasn't a plumber. Your approach to dealing with copper reminded of the Master Pipefitters I worked with - you discussed the most important elements of the trade. Keep up the great work!

[@lewishizer7039]

One of the best instructional videos I've seen on the Tube. Everything clear, to the point, without getting sidelined, VERY clear pictures.

[@Got2Learn]

Thank you so much Lewis!!!

[@richarddow69]

Fantastic DIY video! I am an old head solder guy who soldered on the job for 30+ years. Now I am going to give a shark bite valve fitting on a running water pipe a try. Liked, subscribed, and shared.

[@Got2Learn]

Thank you 😇

[@Got2Learn]

Don't forget to share :)

[@fideauone3416]

When I noticed that my plumber used these to fix a leak, and charged me $250 and took only 15-20 minutes I started looking for them. Since then I have fixed several more and replaced a lot of old copper pipe with Pex and saved thousands. The oldest ones are holding up for near 20 years now.

[@Got2Learn]

Niceeee, thanks for sharing!!

[@armandhammer7642]

I repaired a tee under my house I had the disconnect tool (I bought 2) but it was still difficult to remove the old fittings. I ended up opening the jaws on my channel locks bigger than the pipe and tapping it off.

[@ysorrowy5233]

@@armandhammer7642 por que no me sale agua en dos salidas

[@drulessman2892]

I went under a house that has copper very little room so I cut out the copper each run at a time and remade it with pex outside and squeezed under and pushed the connections . I could only imagine having to solder and the pex can handle hard freezes without burst. Had the whole house done in 4 half hours got paid 2200 bucks

[@Sluggo67]

And that’s the nice thing about Shark bites,the average guy can fix plumbing leaks himself and save lots of money.

[@g-dub4593]

As an electrician who hates dealing with water and solder, I’ll go with these types of fittings any day of the week. However, I appreciate your content, I did learn something, and the info was concise and easy to understand. Great quality.

[@Got2Learn]

🤗🤗🤗

[@Alamyst2011]

Why would you even be doing plumbing? Hire a plumber, add 10% to his price and charge the buyer.

[@g-dub4593]

@@Alamyst2011 I mean in my DIY situations. I tried it once....never again!!!!🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@Alamyst2011]

@@g-dub4593 fair enough

[@bebel25a]

I want to sincerely thank you for this video. You inspired me to complete a task I have put off for more than 6 months. Given that I have zero experience with push to connect fittings and my project involved cutting our main water supply to the house I have tried to do all the preventive planning I could. I followed all of your tips and warnings very carefully and I am proud to say that the project is successfully completed. Keep up the great work and thank you once again for your video post.

[@Got2Learn]

🙏🙏🙏

[@PennellChannel]

We installed a new CPVC line in our crawl space. Everything was going great till we got to the shut off valve. The pressure kept breaking the joint right next to it. We tried multiple times and made sure we glued it well and let it set up. Still kept blowing the joint at the valve. On the 4th try we bought a shark bite valve and I was hooked ever since. Great product! Haven’t been disappointed yet. Highly recommend!!!

[@michaelproctor4510]

Love the cut-away and burr turbulence demo! No need for mystery on how these work. Knowing what's inside and showing some of the common ways they can fail helps make better decisions on where/when to use these over another product type, thanks for a great video.

[@Got2Learn]

Thank you very much Michael, I really appreciate it and I am glad I was able to clarify some stuff, have a great day!

[@chetsobczyk4120]

Very educational. Glad you gave your opinion on lifetime function. No where else can you find this information. Thanks.

[@frankthetank1369]

Great job i thought the same. A ounce of prevention is a pound of cure.

[@ZembaCraftworks]

This is a great video. At first I thought "surely it doesn't need to be 15 minutes" but you really did a fantastic & thorough job covering everything you could possibly want to know about using one of these fittings. I always gotta drop a comment on videos with this much effort put in. Keep it up!

[@Got2Learn]

Thank you sooooo much!!!

[@yichang5912]

One of the most detailed, informative and straight to the point with great clear visuals on shark bites. Thanks for making this video!

[@Got2Learn]

YW!

[@MrCoolmusclecar]

Great video. I love the pro/con approach and greatly appreciate the detailed explanation about the inner workings of the product. I thought I would share some real life feedback about a sharkbite installation. Around 11-12 years ago I had an underground steel pipe leak (inbound from the meter to the house), and it had already been repaired using a menagerie of fittings and different materials. I had to connect steel and use pex to make it work with the previous repair. The repair held up until now, and the reason for the failure was the deterioration of the brass ends holding the plastic sleeves and ultimately the gaskets. However, this makes sense as I was not aware that manufacturer required a silicone wrap around the entire fitting for in-ground installations. It was clear that the soil did its thing and deteriorated the smaller metal pieces over time. Knowing this I am actually re-installing another sharkbite coupling and wrapping it in silicone tape before putting dirt back over it. I really like the flexibility of using pex for a not quite straight installation between the city meter to the existing piping and being able to easily connect two different types of material. I have no hesitation putting a silicone wrapped sharkbite coupling underground into use.

[@Kainosktisis]

I also have used these in hundreds and Hundreds of situations, the only problems I've ever had was when I had a bad piece of pipe that wasn't visible or I couldn't get it installed deep enough, once I figured out that a little plumbing grease solves a lot of problems and If you have to remove and reinstall them a time on two no worries! I've installed them in closed wall, underground and just about anywhere you can think and have never had a failure when it was installed correctly, great video, keep it coming!

[@LordPadriac]

I had to use these when my wife and I bought a three family home and we had to gut the second and third floors because of their condition. Being a 110 year old, balloon framed house there were walls we just couldn't move. Unfortunately some of the walls had been put in in such a way that there was less than 1/2" of space between the place where I would have needed to put a torch for a solder connection and the 110 year old dry wood studs. Perhaps a professional plumber would have thought nothing of bringing a torch in anyway and perhaps he would have thought that because it wouldn't have been his house that burned down if he was wrong. At any rate I wasn't comfortable bringing a torch in there. I've now had sharkbites in the wall there and in the bathroom for 12 years without a single leak. And yes I know for a fact that they haven't leaked because I make annual inspections of anywhere there might be a leak. If you take the time to properly prepare the pipe by cutting it square, properly deburring the inside AND outside of the pipe and then insert it fully into the connector there's no reason you should have any problem.

[@Got2Learn]

Always good to hear real life feedback, thanks!!

[@serpentinefire921]

There are literally a hundred ways to solder in tight spaces.

[@descapitao]

You can use a fire blanket and then torch time.

[@WalkRunChaCha]

Explanation is super clear. Demonstration was well prepared with crossed section pictures that are exceptionally clear. A job well done and I appreciate your time and effort!

[@Got2Learn]

😇🙏

[@francostacy7675]

Great video. I didn’t even know these existed until I had a plumbing problem this week. I fixed it the old way of how I have done thousands of feet of plumbing before I was just at the hardware store and saw these fittings and had no idea what they were and come back and re-searches them I will be doing less of these jobs. I am only be repair work, but if I do, I will be using these thank you. Oh, one more thing I sure wish I had these 30 years ago.

[@evana4622]

I used a Sharkbite 90 and valve in my crawl space about a month ago. It worked in the heat of the (leak) moment without issue; especially for someone who previously had zero plumbing experience. After watching your thorough breakdown and deep dive, I'll still be looking to replace them with soldered copper items, as I have no comfortability issues with doing that. Thank you very much for the video.

[@robpeters5204]

That was a lot of great information that was on point. That tool used to remove the burrs from the copper pipe is actually called a deburring tool. I used them in the machine and tool and die shop. You make an awesome instructor!!! Very well explained. Well done!

[@Got2Learn]

Thank you so much Rob, really appreciate your comment, have a great day!

[@blackericdenice]

I install two of these last weekend on my washer water cutoff valves. I can't believe how well they work. I will be uploading a video soon.

[@Got2Learn]

Awesome, nice channel btw ;)

[@randrl4260]

Nice job on video. Very informative. Yes - my concern is the time test. Since there is a "O" ring involved, it seems it may wear out over time. The question is, how long? I have a flowtite on my house that started leaking after 30 years. The flowtite was under the sink where the leak was apparent. I will use the Sharkbite the same way - where is it exposed. Something tells me the Sharkbite will also last 30 years (or longer), which I can accept, as long as it's easily accessible to repair (plus 30 years is a long time).

[@Got2Learn]

They are EPDM, which last very long.

[@RickaramaTrama-lc1ys]

Excellent tutorial and I saved it to my "How To" playlists. Your clear speech and good volume makes it easy to understand. Thanks for all your work on these showing the cut-a-ways and such. Already a subscriber.

[@Got2Learn]

Awesome, thank you so much!!!

[@MoPoppins]

You are SUCH an excellent educator, and I appreciate all the work you put into producing these videos. 👏 Your provide use examples for each case, purchasing & prepping all the materials, and you are SO THOROUGH! Thank you! 🙏

[@Got2Learn]

😇😇😇🙏🙏🙏👌👌👌

[@johngritjohngrit140]

Installed my Sharks about 5 years ago for hot water tank. Did not know what I was doing and just stuck them on. They are still working great.

[@Got2Learn]

👌🤘

[@crisnmaryfam7344]

you were probably shown to clean the ends of your pipe up somewhere along the line and make a clean cut. Thats really the only trick. Making sure its seated, and not going to kill itself upon install

[@johngritjohngrit140]

@@edgarvera654 Googled Va lp and I still do not know what it means?

[@tonywheeler4468]

So there worth the money???do you live in cold climate?

[@johngritjohngrit140]

@@tonywheeler4468 Georgia, USA

[@Buckyboyincanada]

I have installed an in line connection underground when a gardener broke the irrigation pipe. It was easy as pie and the special wrap kept it looking like new when I removed it 4 years later when we replaced the whole system. SharkBite has saved me a few times! I love that system.

[@tomerickson3163]

This has got to be the best video on Sharkbite fittings that I've seen yet! Thank you for a great presentation!

[@Got2Learn]

Wow, thank you!

[@michaeltodd4559]

The way I see it is if I am having to replace a leaking pipe that a "professional" installed, why would I trust another professional to do it right...when the average cost for a plumber service call is between $175-450. I bought everything I needed to do the job myself using Sharkbite for less than $50 and I have zero experience working with plumbing and pipes. I'm sure there are some really good professionals out there that could do a better job, but for the average homeowner and most applications, these work.

[@markg6860]

Not all plumbers are bad, but with Sharkbite fittings, many times you just won't need a plumber. The key thing is getting a clean cut on the pipe, then removing any burrs.

[@curtisbme]

@@freshoxygen2176 I would always recommend Pex A with expansion fittings products (Uponor, Rehau, etc) over anything that is crimp fitting (and usually Pex B). Zero flow reduction anywhere in the line and (depending on the brand) easier to remove without cutting the tube like with crimps. Though I recommend any type of Pex with any fitting over copper for most any home situation.

[@kimwilson861]

@@curtisbme what about complaints of PEX A affecting water taste? I have heard that from many people. They have to run the water 5 minutes before using it for consumption. Plus; has leaching of PEX chemicals really been tested after A 5-10 year install? Etc

[@yiannimil1]

@@kimwilson861 most are for none potable use.!!!

[@danchase2023]

@@freshoxygen2176 Is the reliability issue due to the rubber seal, moving parts, or something else?

[@rod928s4]

EPDM (ethylene propylene diene monomer) is a synthetic rubber that has been used for decades in automotive serpentine drive belts with great success and reliability. Considering the horrendous environments and stresses the belts are exposed to, I have no concerns about the o-rings in the fittings lasting a LONG time. Mechanical damage to the seal from incorrect pipe preparation, however, may mean that behind-the-wall installation could be problematic...

[@mrj9510]

I had to install a water purification system on my first house. House was built in 1962 and most of the piping was exposed in the basement. It looked like someone before me had DIY replaced a bunch of old galvanized with soft copper, as there was a mix of the two materials. What a pain to fix. The solder joints they did were not cleaned / joined correctly and now looked terribly oxidized, most of my system wasn't even hung and it was beginning to leak in a specific location.... When I cut in and installed my purification, I used pex pipe and all crimp fittings but every valve I chose to do sharkbite. No leaks, no problems. I was so pleased with the result that just a couple months later I torn out the rest of the old bad stuff under first floor and re-pex'ed it. That was easily some of the best money I have ever spent. And as a person who does not have a lot of muscle strength, it was very easy for me to do it by myself. Watched quite a few of your videos to gain the constructability knowledge I needed to do it. Thank you for that.

[@Got2Learn]

I'm so happy to hear it all worked out well for you!

[@sebanc22]

great videos as always. One caution I have not seen though, is to avoid using them on tinned joints ( in reno work the old valve is quite often heated and removed, and a quick temporary cap is often a sharkbite fitting. Be cautious: the teeth do not grab well on the hardened tin surface (don't ask me how I know). Equal caution if you replace with a sharkbite valve

[@Got2Learn]

Great point, thank you for adding this in Peter!!

[@donalso]

So nice to see the shark bite fitting debate addressed so fully. I applaud and thank you sir. To add to the pro side I think that when these fittings are used with pex the number of fittings can be greatly reduced. Perhaps, if thought out; to a point where junctions are accessible. Great video though.

[@Got2Learn]

Thank you very much Don!

[@philwood9760]

I have had to replace sharkbite couplings that were used underground on a water service. The pipe would sink after several years and pull the sharkbite coupling in to, meaning break in half. I never had any problem with them inside. Use flo-control couplings if needed for outside.

[@debravanorden6502]

I'm ready to try thanks

[@aran5946]

These fittings are never meant to be used underground. They are solely used for easy to access areas like under sink connections.

[@rupabegam7543]

Hggu

[@faysalkus1083]

14 years ago my brother in law used a saddle fitting to connect water to my fridge. Now I have purchased a new fridge and I found that there is no shut off to the fridge. I researched and found you video on using shark bite fittings. Seems the best solution for my need.

[@splendorneko2788]

That was a great video to watch-actually enjoyable. Professional, clean, concise, coherent, no filler, no bias, and your experienced opinion was saved for last and stated as your preference. This is how videos, especially trade videos, should be done. Thank you for a great video and all the work you put into it.

[@Got2Learn]

Thank you so much!!

[@user-hm5zb1qn6g]

You said it. Not only are his videos good instruction for people who want to learn plumbing, they should be used as how-to videos for everybody else doing how-to videos on the internet.

[@Got2Learn]

🤩🤩🤩

[@jdaniels1313]

Yes, terrific video, and everything you said, appreciated the opinion at the end only AFTER explaining the technology. I agree with his take, that copper sweat connections are proven to last essentially forever, while the push-to-connect doesn't yet have a track record that long.

[@shaneallee7181]

Thank. Thank everyone so so sorry I I love that I can keep my my head hurting

[@teh60]

I think they are a great temporary solution but it’s so hard to beat a proper sweat connection. Maybe pro press. Excellent video, your cut aways show all the details and your narration is awesome.

[@Got2Learn]

Thanks so much man! I too, prefer ProPress over Sharkbites, I don't like the way Sharkbite hold onto the pipe, but it's still a cool concept.

[@donalso]

@@Got2Learn Crimp fittings take a beating and offer advantages over sweated connections. any thoughts??

[@Got2Learn]

Crimped PEX is awesome. The new Uponor expansion joints are the best, I wouldn't hesitate 1 second to do my whole house with it, best product ever.

[@teh60]

Got2Learn Yes, Uponor definitely looks like the best pex fittings.

[@Got2Learn]

I've done 3 high rise buildings with this and we never got any fails or leaks, so it works.

[@WilliamBurbul]

Great video. I have been amazed at why they work. I have seen them after they have been installed. Due to a recent leak on an exterior laundry room. I saw one being installed and was very amazed at the installation and security of the repair. This video makes the operation of the fitting very clear. The video was very well done and did not bog down as some videos I have seen by opening package etc...

[@Skashoon]

I’m just starting on plumbing my tiny house. Bought PEX B and fittings. This video is very helpful since I have virtually no plumbing experience. Greatest concern is installing the propane tankless water heater. Fortunately, there is a great diagram showing everything that I can follow. Being that my house is on piers (and I live alone) I’m planning to keep all of the piping, vents and drains inside the house, not inside the walls. The only part outside will be the septic connection and the vents terminations to outside. Also the tankless vent to exterior for exhaust gases.

[@nghiaho535]

I use the Sharkbite fittings on the cooper pipe to the water softener for almost 20 years and there is no leak since day one. I did disconnect the pipe once to relocate the tank and reused the same fittings. Still no leak. Agree with Go2Learn, I am still not sure if I want to use the Sharkbite fittings in the enclosed wall. Thanks Go2Learn

[@richard9984-e3z]

Thanks for putting this video together. The presentation was clear, succinct and professional. I liked the fact that you highlighted the pro's and con's for a product that is not quite there in so far as absolute confidence is concerned - that these joints wont break down after a long period of time or where they are not easily accessible.

[@rh5971]

I have used a ton of these things from installing water fountains, to spigots, and many other applications. Fast, easy, but not cheap. Still worth it when you can't have open flame on a job. They work great!

[@sandramargolis]

Have you used them with HIGH water pressure with success ? thanks ! I’m looking to make sense of them !!

[@mr.hannibal2072]

Great video. I never considered, although it does make sense once we directly think about it, that they lubricate the o-rings at manufacture. All the same, I continue to keep a tub of silicone grease and always dab the end of the deburred pex before assembly. Same principle I guess, I'll keep at it, I typically do not use a shark bite anywhere that does not have an access panel regardless of assurances, otherwise it is crimp clamps or sweat. It is nice knowing that they are well trusted. Any time I replace a section that has a SharkBite connection, I usually keep it if it looks serviceable and put them in a bag for short-term use.

[@ut4321]

This is an excellent video on Shark bite fittings. I love the cut away view of how the fittings work inside. Also very valuable to see the pipe preparation to ensure the fittings work correctly.

[@Got2Learn]

Thanks man, very nice comment :)

[@johnhorner5711]

One more minor con in some situations: The fitting is much more bulky than the comparable copper solder fitting or a PEX crimp. Most of the time this isn't an issue, but I have run into a few situations where I don't have the room for the extra outer size of the Sharkbite.

[@ValTek_Armory]

This is true. At least it doesn't matter much for things like faucet cutoff valves since they are a bit bulky to begin with. I just had to replace a 50 year old valve and the sharkbite came in clutch for a quick repair.

[@carolsydney6905]

This is the best video I've seen about shark bite connectors. I like how you detailed each piece in the cross section, it makes understanding all aspects just great. Thanks for a great video

[@Got2Learn]

You are most welcome, please share if you can, it helps the channel tremendously ✌✌

[@AntonioGonzalez-ys7pw]

pi

[@anthonyhitchings1051]

I just used all sharkbites to rearrange my plumbing and install a new tankless gas heater after the old tankless failed unexpectedly. It was $$$$ but made the project so much easier. I bought the special release tongues. All my shatkites are out in the open, so they can be changed to soldered conne tions at a later date. The ability to rotate them is certainly handy.

[@Adventures_of_Marshmallow]

They do / can leak if there is too much sideways force applied at the connection - that is, if you flex one of the pipes too far. Such as can occur with PEX connections. You just have to make sure you're pipes are coming into the fitting straight. Also, try not to rotate the fitting too much as the teeth will cut a groove into the PEX weakening it....

[@Marinesniprx]

Why would there be sideways force on a plumbing connection? Shitty work much?

[@samandjen1]

I installed 1 inch sharkbite fittings on my water softener in 2006, they have had zero issues for the past 14 years

[@notcharles]

Not to pick on you, but this anecdote leaves more questions than answers. For instance 1. What is the source of your hard water? 2. What is your static water pressure 3. Which fittings were you using? 4. What piping were you connecting to on each side of the fitting(s) used? 5. Did you use brand new fittings? 5. Did you install them in an enclosed/hidden/inaccessible location? 6. Why did you chose the costly SB fittings over cheaper copper?

[@edwardmulder3777]

They are supposed to be good for at least 20 ? years ,so uve got 4 more years of safe useage. A home my parents owned about 15 years ago had similar fittings in the walls, they started leaking with mold growing, so ended up being costly fixes.

[@iversonjcameron]

Holy shit.....its been 14 years already since 06.......i thought that was last year😔😔😔

[@broken1965]

Same

[@samandjen1]

@@notcharles 1. Well water high in Iron 2. 60 3. None all new set up 4. All copper 5. Brand new 5 (you miss numbered). in corner of basement all in open area 6. more costly yes, but the time saved over sweating pipes and the sharkbites and can be adjusted after install or removed and reused.

[@atanacioluna292]

What a terrific, clear, concise, and honest report and instructions. Thank you so much, I will start using these, since I did not trust them before, but did not know why. Excellent work.

[@AtomicReverend]

Because I had a slab leak and got tired of fighting the water in the bottom of the pipe (Even the air compressor can't seem to blow all the water out) I decided to use one of these under the slab that was about one year ago since then I have used them here and there and I'm pretty sold on them. I know how to sweat pipes, do most plumbing things but I am by no means and expert It takes me four times longer than it would a professional, I am going to say these fittings are awesome for the average homeowner that has a bit of hands-on knowledge.

[@robkeaton6143]

I use them more and more for repairs to copper lines. They're great for fixing little pinhole leaks, and I love being able to do a bigger job like installing a water heater or a shower valve and not having to use my soldering tools at all. I do worry slightly about how they will last long-term since copper is proven to last for decades. And as for cost, I think it could go in both the pro and con columns. On a big job the pex and sharkbite stuff saves you a ton of time and is so easy to work with. But on a small repair that's easy to get to I still sometimes do it with copper. I can solder together some fittings and only spend a few dollars where the same job might cost $30-40 in Sharkbite fittings. Depends on my mood and how much time I have. Anyway, nice video.

[@jesuslopez4113]

I've doubted these fittings for years but your video was so descriptive I'm going to try them out!

[@Got2Learn]

;)

[@Vanirviking]

Used these fittings for I think around 15 years now. Never had a leak. The only leak I've ever seen, was a defect fitting from the factory. Costs a lot, but you save that money right away in the speed of the projects. Would never go back and solder again.

[@Got2Learn]

Nice to hear!

[@charlestatakis9363]

@Jeremy Marsh You are absolutely correct. Our house is 70 years old and not one fitting failure. I have Sharkbites and I like them but can you imagine a 70 year old house with 40 Sharkbite fittings in walls and ceilings? I wouldn't buy that structure as it would likely require $10K of upgrades, perhaps more.

[@DYIIdeas]

Installed sharkbites in my bathroom about 13 years ago, 1st plumbing thing I ever did, all with maybe just a brief read of the instructions, and of course some prayer, and they are still working great.

[@dogwink]

My personal guideline is to use SharkBite for exposed/accessible plumbing and to use traditional soldering for hidden plumbing. Saves a lot time and is less messy for the quick weekend project. Fittings are on semi-flexible hoses (vibrate a bit) to softener going 6 years and not a drop of leak yet. Just make sure to deburr and lubricate the fitting O-rings.

[@jaydaniels8698]

Been using for 15 years no problem FYI similar push on fittings have been used in ice and water dispensers even longer

[@borys444]

6 years shark bite fittings in walls used for shower lines and outside of walls for toilet and faucet supply with no leaks.would highly recommend great company!

[@6creed933]

I use a chamfer and deburring tool used for reloading ammo. Works like a charm!! Also I used these 7 years ago, I chamfer and deburred and just stuck them on push pull and spin, no leaks after all these years. Thanks

[@Got2Learn]

If installed the correct way, they don't leak.

[@perecarl12]

This is absolutely one of the best instructional videos ever!

[@Got2Learn]

Thank you so much!!

[@harpoon9996]

That is about the most thorough DIY video I think I have ever seen. Very impressive!

[@Got2Learn]

Wow, you made my day :)

[@djchemical]

@@Got2Learn appreciate you cutting one open. I do tons of repairs with these. A local guy at the hardware store told me to remove the internal pipe stiffener for copper repairs. I disagreed, but still wonder why he would think that? If only to help increase water flow. I can't find anything online referring to removing that piece out for copper pipe. What's your opinion on it?

[@jon-kl9mk]

Harpoon999 Ditto!!

[@mattsmith9348]

Had to replace my water heater on Christmas Eve. Slew of family coming the next day. There is no way I could have finished the job in the time available without these fittings. I am definitely a fan.

[@goodbodha]

I use them for diy repair jobs. I also use cpvc primarily. I avoid copper because I dont have that skillset and dont view it as necessary to learn for the tasks I'm doing. All of this has been work done on 1/2" or 3/4" water lines. Where I think these are very useful in for that transition from copper to cpvc. Maybe there is a better way, but for me this is by far the simplest way to get this job done. 1. Cut out the pipe you need to replace/alter etc. 2. Clean up and deburr the copper where you cut it. 3. Attach sharkbite 4. Use cpvc from there. Using that basic approach all I really need to know for copper is how to cut it and deburr it. Everything else is cpvc cutting, measuring, clean, and glue work. Maybe Im not a pro, but Im not doing fresh installs. This is all cut out and replace jobs. The copper was installed usually by my father in law back in the 70s so it had a good run. Maybe these fittings wont last as long as advertised. Maybe they will. I don't know. I do know that poorly done copper installs dont last nearly as long as advertised. I know I won't have the frequency of use to keep that soldering skillset up at a level I would feel good about. I also dont want to hire a plumber for relatively simple tasks. For me cpvc is a very simple skillset that I can easily do. Sharkbites just solve the move over from copper to cpvc.

[@marshaldowns8957]

This is anecdotal, but perhaps valuable. I had a new water heater installed 10 years ago. The handyman who installed it soldered some joints, and used sharkbites on some joints that he didnt want to solder. 10 years later, 3 of the solder joints have failed, and all of the sharkbites are still good! Im sure a licenced plumber would have done a better on the solder joints, but it goes to show that for a DIYer or amateur, shark bites are probably the way to go. It takes training and expertise to get solder joints right.

[@Got2Learn]

💯💯💯🤘🤘🤘

[@dannyl2598]

My brother-in-law successfully used a shark bite fittings and he could have trouble operating soap.

[@missiletm]

They are great for quick fixes on our vacation home in the desert. The home has polybutylene pipe and shaekbite also makes fittings to adapt from that to copper/pvc/pex. I’ve replaced all the connections to the faucets using these with zero problems. Planning on tearing out the polybutylene and doing a pex repipe in the near future.

[@jamescallaspresident2931]

In my professional opionion - Sharkbite and Sharkbite like are to be used in an emergency only and only for temporary use. Freeze and Frozen they will fail and so far I have replaced 3. Use them but measure about 1" down and mark male portion of pipe and push in deep enough. Good Luck to You!

[@ValTek_Armory]

I actually used one of their faucet cutoff valves today to replace a 50 year old fitting that had finally failed. I was fortunate to already have the pipe cutter and deburring tool from my other hobbies, so it was a simple matter of cutting the old soldered fitting off and pressing this over after the proper prep. No leaks so far and I don't expect any for many years since I paid attention to the guides online.

[@chrisbraid2907]

Great Video, used these type of fittings years ago on super yachts with no reliability problems, I loved the inter connectivity with different types of pipes of the same diameter also the ability to disassemble preserving the pipe ... Personally I like them in cavities with access. I agree in not burying them except in low pressure irrigation.

[@Got2Learn]

You are most welcome, please share if you can, it helps the channel tremendously ✌✌

[@joeweatlu5169]

Thanks for this excellent video. There are other videos demonstrating and explaining how sharkbites work, but none as thorough as yours. I appreciate the impartial pros and cons and the cutaway views. Very convincing explanation of just how they can fail due to installation errors.

[@Got2Learn]

Thanks you so much Joe, I really appreciate your comment, please share if you can :)))

[@darkmagna9004]

Hands down, the best, most informative video I've seen on SB fittings. Well done!

[@Got2Learn]

Wow, thanks!

[@johnserrano8683]

Roger that!

[@AndIAmNotGoingToTakeItAnymore]

This is an excellent video. I am a professional plumber and I have one major caveat on installing these type of fittings: Only install these fittings in an accessible area. Do not install behind walls or underground. The main reason is because these type of fittings do not have the strength or longevity of threaded, soldered, or other durable types of fittings.

[@Got2Learn]

🙏🙏🙏

[@jco294]

When you install a sharkbite fitting in an awkward position, the plastic insert may not be aligned, and you may push the pipe damaging the insert and make the fitting unusable. Pushing the pipe is harder in those difficult corners. What I have done is to put plumber's grease inside the sharkbite fittings to prevent the insert from moving and also put some at the end of the pipe for an effortless push. On top of that, it will extend the life of the "o" ring inside.

[@culbyj3665]

is vaseline acceptable? cause thats what i was thinking is cheap and easily on hand. Im curious if its better to just but a sweat to pex as well. for some apps

[@Got2Learn]

I'd have to inform myself as Vaseline is Petroleum based and might damage the o-ring in time, I am thinking a silicone lubricant would maybe be more appropriate?

[@culbyj3665]

@@Got2Learn Learn something new everyday. THis will help for the health crisis to know!! So then is there a way to start a fire using vaseline? seperate the the ptrolium to a point of octane without additional flammable chems or FLAME as a bit of a effing joke!

[@jco294]

@@Got2Learn Silicone lubricant should be fine. My local HomeDepot offers plumber's grease from two different vendors, and they run for close to 2 and 3 dollars, although different stores may have different suppliers.

[@markg6860]

I used these when I installed my new water heater. That was 4 years ago and I've had no leaks, whatsoever. Just be sure that you use a proper pipe cutter and remove any burrs from around the cut. You want a nice clean, square end.

[@Got2Learn]

;)

[@scottzimmerman7667]

Did you remove the plastic pipe stiffner for use on copper? What happens if I leave it on for copper? Does the copper pipe go in far enough?

[@markg6860]

@@scottzimmerman7667 I did remove the plastic pieces for my installation and have had no problems, as I was able to remove them without bending the teeth. Most important ... vital ... is to get a smooth, clean, "square" cut on the pipes and to remove any copper burrs. Do not use a hacksaw ... use a proper rotary pipe cutting tool. I then used the orange combination depth gauge (to mark how far I needed to push the pipe in) and de-burrer. Also, I cleaned the ends of my copper pipes by using a little ketchup on a paper towel ... the acetic acid in the ketchup cleaned the copper to a nice bright finish. The only leak ... a very minor one ... I had on my project was not on a Sharkbite fitting, but on a screw threaded cut-off valve, where I did not use quite enough plumbing tape. It was a small drip (only once every minute or two), so I wrapped a piece of kitchen towel around that particular joint, put a safety bucket underneath and left it a few days until the leak stopped by itself from the calcium in the water.

[@poet0928]

I had a guy at Lowe's tell me to just feel for the second click. He was right. There are two clicks that can be felt for a proper fit.

[@goodbodha]

I noticed that as well. My fear with them is nicking the O-ring. Other than that I think they are a really good tool for some of us.

[@jakehinton732]

I have a shark bite set up in my wall that has been there for almost 20 years that I did myself and it has outlasted everything else and it is not showing any signs of wearing or degradation, this fittings have been a lifesaver in so many different instances I will continue to use them since they have never failed me before, hell I've never even gotten a factory defective one and I use everything from quarter inch up to one inch including ball valve and the PVC transitions this is a truly great product that stands behind its name with trusted reliability! But this is only my opinion and my experience I don't speak for anybody else nor do I speak for the SharkBite company

[@thesetruths1404]

I like them because in natural hard water well areas they allow almost all piping to be PEX which doesn't react to the dissolved minerals in the water and they also have some degree of freeze-burst protection because PEX can swell and return to normal size.

[@lobdsk]

I didn’t know that

[@R_Arizona]

I like them but I’m skeptical about using them in a wall especially in Arizona because the hard water sucks and is destructive to any pipe

[@fixitmann6685]

You got that right

[@jcd13able]

I live in arizona with 37 grains hard water in the heat, etc. and have several sharkbite push-in connectors installed with zero problems. Actually had the metal rings or crimp ons fail on me couple times and it's why I replaced them with sharkbite connectors. The key to plumbing longetivity is to not go above 140F water temps and keep the pressure around 50psi with a regulator installed on the main cold water line going into the house. The more pressure you put the system under and with hotter water the more problems you will have and longetivity will go down. Keep water temps around 140F to kill bacteria inside water heater. They live from 95F to 115F. Too cold they go dormant and too hot will kill them.

[@crisnmaryfam7344]

using them on straight well water. Nothing wrong here.

[@spol1622]

I have been using these at work for some years now. In my opinion this kind of quick connector is good for air, water or any other liquid or things like grease. They hold rather well except for higher pressure applications. Although, any solid connections are just stronger and will last longer in harsh industrial environments...

[@digimaks]

Technically you suppose to run PEX pipe without any unions until the fixture. So unlike copper you can bend pipe around in directions you need, avoiding need for corners and unions. In places where sharkbite connection is necessary, technically you can make a concealed hatch, like electric junction box . Easy!

[@wendylacy7818]

Does high pressure include a bathroom 3/4" cooper going up from a 3/4×1/2" shark bite el to a 2nd flr. 1/2" cop. Into a Diverter valve.

[@benmughal]

@@wendylacy7818 no. That is not a high pressure situation. High pressure for sharkbite would be a hydraulic line on a CAT9D.

[@obfuscated3090]

I use some Sharkbites SELECTIVELY where soldering is inconvenient (being able to rotate assemblies into position is super handy) but only where I have easy access. I do immaculate prep on the pipe and ensure the area to be grabbed is polished smooth with emery cloth. I've never had a failed install or a leak but I'm prepared for that, too. I use a lot of West system marine epoxy (high end boat builders have some very cool adhesives!) and if faced with seepage I'd drain the line, fab a simple "dam" to control the viscous epoxy then pot the joint. I did a test piece (always, always test adhesives before doing anything important) and it held fine under pressure. It's not to code but my farmhouse, my rules and the stuff is rated for potable water storage.

[@dpdp006]

Thank you - A+ on details - I have used SharkBite but did-not know how they work - This explains well. Correctly pointed out cutting copper pipe evenly and deburring is key here.

[@Got2Learn]

👌👌👌

[@emmamilam3744]

Thank you, you answered my question. I was worried that it still would spin after I installed on the pipe and afraid of a leak at that point, but when you said that it could be repositioned and showed it , that relieved my concern.

[@bacard1002]

My spigot falls down because it spins. How do I prevent it from spinning?

[@Got2Learn]

Fasten it with screws ;)

[@demonweber666]

@@bacard1002 If you're talking xbout a sillcock (like the valves used outside for garden hoses), they usually have 2 slots, or screw holes to mount them. If not, you can always use silicone caulk.

[@72plyduster1]

Just one question, I would think a little lube on the pipe before insertion would help and would help protect the o ring, I was thinking olive oil or corn oil, I agree with all the pre preparation so important.

[@Got2Learn]

Only use silicone grease for this.

[@joem2197]

Great video. Best I've seen on use of Sharkebite fittings. Had a acid neutralizer and water sofener added to my well water treatment system 5 years ago. Expected them to use soldered copper fittings, but he job was done before I could say anything. It is all in an accessible area. Would never use Sharkbite fittings which were not accessible. Period !! Thank you again.

[@SKelly-xi8lh]

Good video. Very informative. The Pro/Con, and personal evaluation at the end summed it up perfectly. I also came away with two valuable tips; don't skimp-out on the tools or the prep work. If you do, don't blame the fitting afterward. Also, the real-time demo was impressive (it's hard to argue with a real time demo).

[@TwinShards]

What i very like about the Sharkbite is the plug In the event of a pipe failing dramatically you could rush quickly get your cutting tool and press fit it on the pipe... Then call a plumber :) Even if you didn't deburr a copper pipe, better a small leak from the plug you just put than a water fountain storming in your house.

[@Got2Learn]

💯💯💯

[@drulessman2892]

They are very convenient for remodels stub outs before paint before you put the supply valves on .. ez and fast

[@Maplenr]

Huge thank you for putting this out. This gives me a lot more confidence to do some of this around the house plumbing stuff myself, almost all my pipes are in open areas so it seems to be a great place to use sharkbite

[@Got2Learn]

You can do it!

[@Eastbaypisces]

​@@Got2Learn u can connect pvc to it right? Not cpvc but pvc

[@LennyK1015]

After Hurricane Sandy, I used Sharkbites on copper/copper, copper/PEX, and PEX/PEX. It’s been over 12 years on over a dozen fittings and never had a leak. I even reused them for outside water lines after an early freeze, replacing the copper with PEX.

[@pjplumber2146]

23 years plumbing. 19 of those is service tech. Been using them since their introduction at hardware show in Vegas 17 years ago. Still use them. Won’t stop. Long as the outside of pipe is clean. And you put them on correctly. You be ok. I use 10-15 a month. Various type. I had a couple issues until I fully understood the mechanics. So say what you want but the inventor is making millions and they get bought. Trust me. A homeowner will return a busted fitting that costs $10. The company would’ve went under long time ago. But instead 4-5 companies use sharkbite idea and make their own. So good luck figuring them out. Just because something is quick and easy doesn’t make it unprofessional. Professionalism is simply not allowing a non pro to get screwed. DO NOT USE IN DIRT.

[@Spran.]

Phillip James you sir are my hero

[@diywarrior7352]

I think these fittings are the best thing to come along in plumbing in a long time. I used these in my bath remodel 8 years ago and have never had a leak or problem. I just used them again to change both indoor and outdoor garden hose water supply piping. Soldering is difficult in a tight spot and that is another pro to Sharkbite fittings and valves. You don’t have to worry about setting your house on fire soldering in a tight spot close to insulation and wood. I would use these anywhere in my house with confidence. Another pro is it can cut your project time to less than half by not having to solder. Push them on the pipe and your done!

[@Marinesniprx]

Well said JP

[@stevensexton204]

I hope Sharkbite is doing something for you because you did an amazing job on this.

[@Got2Learn]

;)

[@paulsummerfield8245]

The best explanation video I have EVER seen (and I've seen a lot!) Well done and Thanks.

[@Got2Learn]

🤗🤗🤗🤗🤗

[@palfruswyrmrest8321]

Great video, thanks for NOT being a talking head and showing us the hardware instead. You definitely are a proponent of the technology ... until the very end when you state you would not use them in inclosed walls or outside or for long term applications. I'm having trouble thinking of a short term application other than using them temporarily until you come back and replace them with crimp connectors. Many of the professional plumbers hate these because they leak, but you might have just demonstrated many of the reasons why they leak.

[@roctreese5371]

You, sir, have done a most excellent job at describing this. Your training techniques are incredible. Great job!

[@Got2Learn]

Wowwww, thank you sooooo much Roc 😇😇😇🤘

[@neoasura]

Im not a fan of shark bite. I've had several leaks. But, you do point out why, you have to prep your copper pipe perfectly. They didn't have anything like that when I bought them, they just said "oh just stick them on, no prep needed!" that burned me, so I'll stick to traditional solder, seems to work better for me and my hard water.

[@Kainosktisis]

We use them all the time and have never had a failure unless something was amiss, we always use a little plumbing grease to help with a clean install and it helps with being able to reuse the fitting, I have stops in my box I has have used 50 times and no failures, we sometimes do sand the pipe on older pipes with a rough finish but always 90° to the pipe and with grease so the o ring has no way to weep water pass the o ring, it sets in the sanded groves and with grease and have never had a leak, great video

[@Got2Learn]

Good to hear this, Sharkbites do NOT leak unless they were installed incorrectly, thanks @Kainosktisis

[@ramblingrebel6811]

@@Got2Learn according to your own video , they do leak when the pipe isn't prepared correctly.. those are your own words