PEX Pipe - 5 Connection Options

[@MagaRickn]

Very good video guys! Amateur plumber/homeowner here. Will be installing about 300+ feet of PEX at our barn with several branches off the main line, so this really helped me better understand the process. I am actually the 'helper' cause I'm 74, but my Son, the 40 year old Firefighter, will be doing most of the work. I did order a Pex Press type crimping tool kit from iCrimp, so here's hoping all will go well. ;)

[@AKJammer1]

When I first started DIY’ing plumbing with PEX, I used pinch clamps. I remodeled several bathrooms and a kitchen with them. Chose that mainly due to cost of tools and materials. Biggest downside that I didn’t like was the pinch itself. If you have to get in there to do any work around it, those edges are pretty sharp. I’ve been scraped many times. I was asked to do a larger job for a friend, so I agreed as long as they buy the tools and I get to keep them. That’s when I went to crimp rings. I used crimp rings for several years till I saw how easy PEX-A was to use. It’s harder to find in big box stores, but I picked up a yellow expansion tool and absolutely love it. I’ve done three bathrooms so far with it and won’t use anything else. I have used the shark bite fittings, lots of faucets come with PTC now. Actual shark bite I’ve only used in emergency repair where there is just no other way of getting into it without tearing things apart. Had a baseboard heater with hot water that someone shot a nail through on an outside basement wall. Put a shark bite on that in 1990, still holding strong.

[@BigGuy8059]

Sharkbite-type fittings are terrific for emergency repairs because they require no tools, no soldering and, no glue dry time. Even if the shutoff valve is old and leaks, you can install them easily by hand. And then you can immediately restore water pressure. Try that with copper, and you will appreciate the simplicity. It's like the change from cast iron to ABS sewer pipe. They also make a coupler that transitions from polybutylene to copper, PVC, CPVC, or PEX. Just what you need for temporary repairs of old houses and trailers before you re-pipe. One hint for DIYers trying to use the cheap pinch-clamp tools: If you can brace one handle against something solid, then use both hands to push on the other handle, it's a lot easier than using one hand on each handle. You can even brace it against your leg.

[@pirmin6299]

Sometimes you can get creative like doing a squat and crimp the thighs or use your hip and lean up against the wall. Why rush the process?

[@AZAZPdotcom]

30+ year aircraft/rotorcraft/spacecraft engineer here, leaning back to my personal interests in architectural, mechanical, electrical, and plumbing education to build my own dream home. I gotta say, Eric KICKS ASS! That dude is SUPER quick, ON POINT, and, at times, almost scripted. Make him a REGULAR! Super thanks to giving me the knowledge about a bit of history, what was, what IS, and what the industry colloquially calls each system. AND the perfect amount of personal editorial opinion about what each of you prefer, and when you prefer to bias towards one system or another. BRAVO!!! This video is a MUST watch! Sincere thanks!

[@richardkaminski9535]

Hey matt I think a great follow up video would be the pex piping to the fixture transition ie toilets ,sink faucet,shower bath mixing valves etc

[@Winterrowd3209]

I agree

[@anotherflyer]

Thank you. Free advice on you tube can be hit or miss, but it didn't take more than a few minutes to determine you guys to be a credible source. Subscribed.

[@richmac918]

As someone that spent years sweating fittings I was skeptical of these "new" plumbing techniques until about 15 years ago. I bought and remodeled a lake house and used PEX for the very first time. I ended up using PEX A (expansion) and was in awe at how fast I managed to replumb the entire house. What would have taken days using copper took hours using the Milwaukee tool you used. It's been 15 years and not a single leak and I don't have to be worried about the copper corroding due to the hard water.

[@Lsidjejaickenw833]

Use some pliers and apply some light pressure to the crimp rings to get them to stay in place before crimping with the bigger tool. Way less work for one person rather than trying to carefully keep the ring in place.

[@RustyNail600]

This 100%. Once you get good at crimp rings, they are very fast.

[@dave34tx]

This comment is spot-on! This is how I train my crews to do it. Keep a small pair of channel locks in your back pocket, set that ring in place, and then crimp.

[@joshperrythree]

I'm beyond the normal DIY-er in what jobs I'll tackle. I use my manual pinch tool to just barely start the pinch before final positioning to achieve this as well. I saw some pinch rings online the other day that come "pre-pinched" a little from the manufacturer, costing more of course.

[@bradkvanbek7148]

I used this crimp ring system on my house, the main down side is its use in tight places. But there is a block tool that is slow but works well in a tight area. A power tool would be better for tight areas. House is twelve years old, I have had to failed fittings, but they were cracks in the brass fittings, not the crimp rings. But did the stress of the crimping crack the fitting? I would crimp, turn 90 degrees and crimp again for a more uniform crimp.

[@paulpoco22]

Under the sink at the back going PolyB to PEX with shut off valves. H & C was 6 crimps, I made the mistake of starting at the existing PolyB at the back of the cabinet and working my way up, so tight need to get some PVC white pipe to put on the Crimp tool handles.

[@DaveIngle1]

Great Video. I live in Chicago and the amount of push back on this and NM wiring still has me shaking my head. What you didn't talk about Is can the connections be removed and reuse the fitting. Here is some FYI if you weren't aware. I found out in my early PEX projects that both the crimp rings and the pinch rings could be removed and the fittings reused, if you did make a mistake. The crimp rings have a removal tool, that can "Pop" the copper ring. The tool has a flat anvil jaw on one side and a cutting jaw on the opposite. Cutting jaw to the outside before you squeeze it. You use you PEX cutter to cut the PEX close to the barbed fitting, Insert the tool in the end of the fitting and over the copper ring and squeeze it. It Pops the ring then you turn the tool to 180 degrees of the cut and squeeze lightly and it opens the copper ring like a butterfly and the copper ring falls off. The fitting can be "reused". For the pinch ring, you can use the same crimp tool turned 90 degrees and it will cut the pinch ring tab off and come apart. Disadvantage of the crimp ring removal is the PEX pipe becomes shorter by the length of the PEX on the barbs. The pinch ring can be removed and not lose any PEX length. It's handy when an elbow was installed when a "T" was needed or if the PEX was supposed to change sizes but the same size fitting was installed.

[@jonblakemore6454]

As a remodeler who wants to change over to using pex primarily, would you recommend crimp or pinch connections?

[@joshperrythree]

​@@jonblakemore6454I haven't used the crimp rings personally, but I've had no issues with the pinch rings! Plus they are easier to remove if you need to. A small flat- blade screwdriver will pry up the end of the clamp at the barbs and then its easy to pry off. They work just like to the band clamps used on vehicles for CV boots, which go through alot of abuse and rarely fail!

[@DaveIngle1]

@@jonblakemore6454The pinch rings are definitely easier , especially in tight locations. The handles of the crimp wrench need to be very wide to get it on the ring. Connections between floor joists are most difficult with crimp rings.

[@Nctbgs]

@@jonblakemore6454I have both and prefer pinch way better than round crimp rings . If you haven’t switched to Pex you really should . I waited to long to switch , wish I had switched years earlier .

[@stevem1081]

@@jonblakemore6454 I have all 3 types of tools, I like my crimp rings just because they look nicer, and on something like an outside spigot, you don't have to drill as big of a hole as you would with cinch or expansion. But, if you want simplicity, lower cost, a smaller crimp tool easier to get in smaller places, and the same tool does all sizes, the cinch type is the way to go.

[@JamesAnderson-qm2ou]

Great video! Very descriptive, informative and the fact that you started out the video by specifically saying no system is "better" and that it all comes down to preference is greatly appreciated! I'm a DiY'er that just bought a 10,000 sqft commercial/residential building with OLD copper that needs replacing. I will not solder so pex it is. Most of the comments are helpful also. As some of the comments stated, since this video is likely targeted at DiY'ers such as myself, including the likelihood and difficulty in fixing the inevitable mistakes would be appreciated, maybe a follow up video?

[@johnbarbuto5387]

I don't know if someone has already mentioned these, but there are three other issues to consider: access, removal, tool cost. One of the main problems with a crimp system (which is what I have, as a casual DIYer) is trying to get access. In tight construction spots, such as in a wall or behind a sink, it can be very difficult (or not possible) to get into a position where the crimper can be used. So, the push-to-connect type system can be very good there. Second, removal can be important. For example, imagine you want to change a faucet or change some pipe connections. If you have to cut off the old connector then you might be in a situation where the PEX is no longer long enough - requiring you to find a way to run a whole new pipe. However, with care, I've used a Dremel-type tool with small cut-off wheel to cut the crimp ring and then remove it. If done carefully this can be done without damaging the PEX. Note: copper rings are easy to cut, stainless steel probably much more difficult to do without damaging the PEX. A new connector can be then be inserted (never had one leak after doing this, carefully). Third, the tools used for these techniques are expensive. A casual DIYer may not have needs that justify spending a lot of money for these tools. So, a push-to-connect option may be the best for such users.

[@johnslaughter5475]

That's why we have rental stores. They carry all the tools that will be needed. The only cost is the rental. As far as cutting a line so it is now too short, leave an extra 3"-4" of pipe when making the initial installation. PEX is flexible, unlike PVC, CPVC (which I hate), copper, and galvanized. My house has CPVC and I'm always worried about it breaking or freezing. It's too fragile. I'm having all of it replaced, a little at a time, with PEX. The problem I see for DIYers is all the different options when going to the home store. They don't employ professional plumbers that can steer the DIYer to the correct mix of pipe and connectors.

[@zacharyzilke3739]

U can expand pex to get it back off and u can get the crimp rings and procrimp rings off and pipe can be reused dont make excuses for sharkbites they suck

[@pEaSe2100]

Check to see if you have a Tool Library nearby. Most Tool Libraries are non-profit and will loan you numerous tools for a single yearly fee.

[@JonathanMercer]

Excellent video breaking down the confusing plumbing aisle. I had to figure out so much of this with bits and pieces from everywhere and you guys really broke down everything I learned all in one place. Nice job!

[@CerebralAilment]

Although long, this was a great demonstration and introductory coverall of pex! Thanks guys.

[@vito4553]

Thanks a million. I was an apprentice back late 90s and we still used copper for water lines and pvc drains. I have an RV now that got a leak-Im in the Lowes parking lot watching this- to see what i need to repair the RV leak. It's the crimp style pex crap lol. Guess I gotta buy a new tool to boot ugh.

[@BidwellCanyonFarm]

Great vid Matt and Eric! I really appreciate the demonstrations on all the types. I have used the PTC on so many plumbing transitions and in tight spaces, but a comment on one of my last plumbing videos caused me to do a double take and re-think using them since the person said they were for temporary use only due to the rubber o-ring. I couldn’t find anything out there that backed up this claim, but I have been thinking a lot of transitioning to expansion fittings and taking the plunge on a Milwaukee expansion tool. Thanks again for the great demos! Best!

[@MouseMan760]

Amazing video guys! you completely described everything with pex! You helped me repair my RV!😀👍🏼

[@chrisosti]

Great vid Matt and Eric. I'm doing a complete replumb on a 60's home in FL. I chose Pex-A for a number of reasons, mainly the cost of the tool (Dewalt) which goes with my other Dewalts. But there a number of other good points you should have mentioned. The maneuverability of the pipe is a big one, it's more flexible than the other systems, and if you do happen to kink it, a little heat and it's as good as new. Can't do that with the others. Another big advantage is the full size/bore fittings. I want as much flow as I can get without any losses due to number of fittings. I did find the fitting cost to be much better than some of the others. I appreciate all your great videos, and especially you're work with Paul and the gang at Stud Pack! Keep up the great work brother!

[@nothankyou5524]

Hope you didn't chose it for it's life span or lack of contaminants or unexpected failure issues, tee hee.

[@fengye1161]

Thanks a lot of your video! I did my shower room after I watched it and I understand that I need to buy. It’s my first time doing that and it came out perfectly fine 😊😊😊 again, thank you so much

[@mcintosh.daughter]

I started out with pinch based on availability and cost. I had only one joint leak. I switched to Uponor in 2017 mainly to reduce wear and tear on my joints, and also for working in tight spaces. The price of the Milwaukee or Dewalt expansion tool is worth the cost if you are only plumbing one house.

[@vapeurdepisse]

Yeah cost is a non factor when you consider the cost of hiring a plumber

[@Acemechanicalservices]

Why anyone would use anything else still confuses me. Why would you bend, reach and strain, then deal with trying to get your tool on a ring that keeps slipping, then you have to try to get the leverage to use the tool when you can just hold it where you stand, let the tool do the work and just put it on the fitting.

[@GREGGRCO]

Us two way radio and CATV installers are very familiar with these. I've always wondered why they didn't use these in plumbing. Thank You very much for showing all these !! On the crimps I use, I can cut off the collette and re- use the connector in the future if desperate and need a connector while up on the mountain. I'm sure you could with these. On a rainy day I go through the cut-offs and recover them for emergency use.

[@stevem1081]

He forgot to mention that orange tool in the beginning not only gives depth to push too, but also trims the edge of the pipe to keep from cutting the O-ring

[@UtahKent]

Yes, if the working area gives you clearance. And DO NOT use a SharkBite without the depth guage of you are an amateur like me; you will get fooled by the feel of the fitting. Use the guage or you'll do it again!

[@eegorr]

That's why they call it a deburr tool.

[@ObservationofLimits]

Trims? Or chamfers? Two different things.

[@stevem1081]

@ObservationofLimits I suppose if you want to get technical, the correct answer is probably bevel.

[@PongoXBongo]

It'd be great for us DIYers if home stores would add expansion tools to their rental options. Rent it for an afternoon to replumb a bathroom then return it so the next guy can do the same.

[@Dmanpeterson]

My local plumbing supply store has that rental option, and it’s actually free just a deposit that is returned. Going to DIY most of my bathroom plumbing. I think the expansion is the hardest to mess anything up.

[@PongoXBongo]

@@Dmanpeterson/videos Nice. I'll have to check with my local stores. I'm comfortable with glueing PVC/ABS, but sweating copper is a much bigger ask.

[@1minibee]

I love your videos. They've helped me quite a bit since I'm a "jack of all trades" independent contractor.👍

[@larrybustamante8906]

I loved the video showcasing 5 types of connectors. However, I would have liked to see a demonstration of how to repair a bad crimping job or how to remove a clamp. Thank you for the information.

[@vapeurdepisse]

Was gonna make this comment. Removing a connector is actually needed sometimes. Had good luck with the pinch clamp. I suspect you can cut out the expansion sleeve as well. But the ring clamps? Forget about it. That makes them not as good in my view.

[@louisr5011]

​@@vapeurdepissethere are tools to remove clamps but it is only for fittings reuse s8nce you need to cut the PEX pipe before removing the clamp.

[@ruelsmith]

It depends on what your hooking that Pex to. If you hook it to something that's not going to get reduced by they faucet connection, as in a utility sink faucet, you'll notice. If you're connecting it to a 1/2" x 3/8" stop valve to a 3/8" faucet connection, such as a bathroom sink, or say a water saver shower system, you won't notice the volume drop. It can be a problem over a long distance. I work in commercial plumbing and I've worked on systems that run 400 ft in a straight shot, and the entire system is over 1000 ft long. You would want to accommodate for that in your sizing. Pex B has a higher burst rate than Pex A, but both are pretty high. Pex A has had problems with people over expanding the expansion ring and it splits behind the collar where the pipe expands. The only place we tend to put Pex on the commercial side, in my experience, is for in-wall plumbing. We either take the copper into the wall to a manifold and Pex it from there, or we have jobs where the in-wall plumbing is Pex to 18" out of the wall in the ceiling space, then it goes to ProPress copper. We usually connect to copper stub-outs, and larger pipes, such as toilets that need flush valves, they get completely done in copper.

[@franksupholsteryshop]

I replumbed my whole house with pex type b. I used a Zurn manifold with individual valves for each line. Awesome system especially for the diy.

[@RfffDdff-rf4qu]

Don't drink from it without a filtration system micro plastics are a health concern especially for children. Google it friend.

[@franksupholsteryshop]

Yea we use an R.O. system for drinking and another for showering. @@RfffDdff-rf4qu

[@joshperrythree]

I did the exact same thing!

[@justin7080]

​@@RfffDdff-rf4quyup, but pex a is the worst as far as chemical leaching is concerned. Pex b is better but the best is pex c - basically no leaching of chemicals.

[@toneyeye]

I am planning on doing some DIY work relocating the shower and toilet plumbing in my bathroom. Watching this has convinced me that I can get it done competently.

[@1mwls]

Great upload, I'm 63, and when I moved the hose outlet I used the crimp ring one. But I think I will order a few of the sleeve ones. Just in case I want to do anything else, Like I went under and put valves to the shower.

[@chriskelvin248]

In the gas industry, we used Honeywell Perfection fittings for PE pipe and tubing 2” and below. Almost the same procedure as the Viga, but there was also a chamfer tool that had to be used on the pipe end. So quick to install, for emergency repairs and permanent installs. On the subject of expansion PEX technique- I would love to get into switching over to this from copper for water because the fittings are both quick to install and full port. But I have one reservation, it’s this buzz about small cracks developing in the expansion area and then causing pinhole leaks a year down the road.

[@kchilz32]

That was only on the uponor brand color tubing. They have since recalled it. Shark bite and Apollo also sell expansion tubing.

[@ErnestasLiubarskij-tu3hs]

Very informative video. Thank you for the information and demonstration.

[@danbert8]

Pinch clamps with the ratcheting tool are the way to go for DIYers. Not super expensive tool, not a lot of force required, and fits into smaller spaces than the other tools.

[@utpharmboy2006]

shark bite looks easiest for diy. is what you said the priced option?

[@danbert8]

@@utpharmboy2006 I guess I still don't have faith in Sharkbite installations. For sure easiest for DIY since it's tool less.

[@utpharmboy2006]

@@danbert8 lol yeah ive used sharkbite to do a quick reverse osmosis system under my kitchen sink and they are super easy to use. when i used it i was thinking its almost too easy and seems like it might fail because of it, but not yet. but I'm about to pex my entire house on a new build so i feel like that may be a little different

[@russellseaton2014]

Agree. I redid some bathrooms in a house. Tied in Pex to copper. Stainless steel pinch clamps were easy to get in between joists in the basement in any direction. Pinching tool is small and short and only needs to be opened up a few inches maximum. Its basically a band clamp. Even the dumbest person can understand how a band clamp works. Also used some Sharkbite fittings on my project because they were the best option in the spot. Much more expensive for Sharkbite but still reasonable enough for a small project.

[@russellseaton2014]

@@utpharmboy2006 I suppose Sharkbite is easiest because it is a simple push it on and you are done. But the stainless steel pinch clamps are just band clamps. And the simplest, dumbest mind on earth can understand how a band clamp works. So its kind of a tie. But Sharkbite fittings are much more expensive than the stainless steel pinch clamps. Cheap and simple stainless steel pinch clamps wins in most situations over Sharkbite.

[@RandyK1ng]

Awesome treatise, guys. One thing that I found out with Upinoor or Wirsbo PEX-A is that the automated expansion tool has a distinct advantage over the less-expensive manual stretch tool, and that is that the stretch head ROTATES on the automated tool as it is stretching. Found out how critical this is because I plumbed an ice-maker feed tube valve with difficult access to the pipe, so my manual tool couldn't rotate much. The connection drip-leaked. I did it again and forced my tool to rotate as best I could and that fixed it. The stretcher head cannot stay in one place, it has to rotate. :)

[@MaryM-h3w]

I really appreciate this video. It really helps me plan my project.

[@ouraychastain32]

If you can do copper and Pex with one tool (propress), that is a huge advantage I don’t really hear mentioned around. Thanks for the video.

[@vince9486]

Speaking of dry fit, high-rise in downtown Austin 12th floor a dry fit elbow in copper let go on a Saturday afternoon and by the time the security figured out water was coming down the elevator shaft the $600,000 in insurance claims were done. The fitting had been there over 4-years without solder.

[@pats9414]

This plumber is the man. Straight shooter. Smart and no stupid unproven biases.

[@HalfStarFilms]

They are like that because of sponsorships.

[@jacquelinerenee1985]

Great video! I just got my bathroom redone using the crimp style, but where the toilet pipe come out of the wall for the shut off they just screw/twisted it off put the valve on then twisted it back on when they installed the toilet after the drywall was hung. Maybe thinking they used the o-ring in this area but not entirely sure but would like know your thoughts on how that was possible?!? Thank you for the info

[@andyeisenbraun6944]

I've used the pinch type on two houses now (I'm not a plumber but did my own houses). The reason cor the choice of the pinch was the minimal clearance required for the tool (you can crimp a line in a smaller space) and the cost. I like the expansion type but couldn't justify the cost of the tools for low volume... PTC is amazing for any one time repair but as you said, just too expensive for a whole house job. Thanks for the video!

[@STARFLEETC0MMAND]

Question: Any type of PEX sleeve protection from rodents and critters that can chew and damage the PEX and cause massive leaks ??? Thanks For The Awesome Videos. 👍✌️🖖

[@lanwickum]

O-rings can cut during install. Any oring fitting has some more risk. Orings also can seal very well. Deburr edges to reduce the risk. Great video, thank you.

[@Mdjagg]

Great intro to pex. Thank you!

[@aussie2uGA]

When I flipped my first home in 2014, I didn't recognize cpvc and tried to cement pex to it. It worked fine, for a couple hours. Glad I was still there to hear the water rushing... This was a fun video to see to keep up to date.

[@Californians_go_home]

A perfect example of why house flippers shouldn’t be flipping houses.

[@aussie2uGA]

We all start somewhere. House ended up great, moved on to the next with more knowledge. @@Californians_go_home

[@GiovannyB-p7u]

I'm not sure if mentioned before, but for Pex, you need to keep the plastic insert for PTC and pull it out for hard pipes. The crimp system you can save a fitting with a ring cutting tool if crimped incorrectly. Transition fittings from all hard pipes to Pex are a game changer for professionals who dislike PTC. P.S. just pinch that crimp ring with your pliers, and "voila" one person job. Also, pressurize right away after your last crimp. No issues!!

[@6806goats1]

May, can you find out for certain about Uponor A cracking and leaking? I’m seeing videos where people are now having problems. It appears to be the red pex where the problem is. Could be the pex itself and being left out in the sun. Comment were made that they’ve now gone away from the red pex and just use white pex with red or blue writing in the tube for hot or cold. I will need to re-pipe my house some day as it’s still using poly but the owner builder did a decent job of crimping all the fittings. It’s even used in the hydronic system which makes me nervous but it means breaking concrete. Thanks.

[@behumble393]

Great video guys!

[@tsr7198]

Great video! I appreciated the breakdown.

[@bradkvanbek7148]

I used this crimp ring system on my house, the main down side is its use in tight places. But there is a block tool that is slow but works well in a tight area. A power tool would be better for tight areas. House is twelve years old, I have had to failed fittings, but they were cracks in the brass fittings, not the crimp rings. But did the stress of the crimping crack the fitting? I would crimp, turn 90 degrees and crimp again for a more uniform crimp.

[@QNSwebmaster]

Excellent video. Thank you

[@stickboy6772]

Sharkbite has saved me in so many repairs. Repairs get very costly when a house is plumbed wrong, and it can be difficult to find honest repairmen. With that said, the PTC introduced me to the other methods that i also now use, but the PTC allows for easier installation in confined spaces, or by disabled personnel. I am no expert but still learned some things in this video. Thank you for covering so many types of connectors and the tools needed.

[@owenjohnson5030]

I’m a DIY’r. I’m replacing all the water line in the house we bought. The house is getting a serious update. I decided to bite the bullet and go with expansion pex. Bought the expensive tool to do it with. Going to install a manifold system in a water closet.

[@Lilfarmrboy]

We use the pinch or aka single ear hose clamp in the CO2 business. These style clamps routinely hold 300 psi of pressure in the CO2 drink/beer dispenser systems.

[@Blazer-fp8fo]

I used the next to last style with the copper crimp rings in my remodel. Main reason for me, being a ways from any large city, is it's availability. At least in my area, they are available at almost every home center and hardware store around.

[@GeeplusSux-my6jt]

Matt, you need to do a show on alternate building types - straw bale, rammed earth construction, ICFs, etc.

[@owenmanagement]

He already has. Check out his library.

[@botfoblhrp]

cool video . very very informative. thank you to both of you.

[@douggibson9084]

Great video Matt. Pinch type "Oetiker" is manufactured in Marlette, Michigan.

[@tahaahmed5617]

Good video, couple things i would be interested in learning is transition from copper to pex, copper press fittings, and pexa or pexb types vs pinch or crimp, cost of tools used for diy.

[@TheJohn8765]

Very informative. I dont do any plumbing but i like to learn. Thanks!

[@grahamburrows7570]

Grest video. Im not a plumber but ive used most of these systems. Love the breakdown

[@thesetruths1404]

Sharkbite Max is what I use on all of my exposed or easily accessible yet hidden locations. The key is to kepp everything clean and debur all the pipe ends.

[@DarkSevariant]

31:05 The pinch clamp, do you have to use brass elbows, Ts, or straight connectors, or can you use plastic? I was thinking since Eric was saying there had to be more pressure to crimp those, that plastic would crack. Thanks for our time.

[@s.st.9371]

What are the maximum water temperatures that can run through the tubing and fittings? Thanks.

[@letricblue]

Sharkbite is evolution from victolic fittings as I understand it! Looking for a uv stable outdoor pex, any ideas?

[@bbatheymca]

The stainless pinch fittings are great especially if you use the Ryobi electric pinching machine. It is definitely worth the money if you ever need to get into tight quarters.

[@AwakeInAnacortes]

Great video. Good information. The only thing I would have liked to see as a DIY person is how hard or easy each system is to correct mistakes. For instance, some fittings (e.g. pinch) are easy to undo without cutting the tubing again. An important advantage if you are working on old construction and make a mistake but the existing tubing isn't long enough to be cut back any further.

[@linuxkidd]

I'd be great to see a follow-up video demonstrating differences in disassembly / removal of fittings, along with re-usability of the removed fittings across these different connection types. I have the most experience with the pinch and crimp PEX-B setups and own the tool for cutting the crimp rings from PEX-B -- So I'm unsure how easy it is to free a PEX-A fitting for potential re-use.. The king of re-usability would clearly be the PTC fittings.

[@lrw-86]

You guys forgot Rehau’s pex system which is a combination of expansion pex and crimp fittings. They call it EVERLOC. Best of both worlds?

[@Keith-W]

Ditto, I was hoping they would cover this.

[@ajgomes3459]

been using Rehau for 22 years, never a problem even with solar panels, way better

[@jej3451]

or worst of both worlds

[@steveedlund7357]

Dido. Unfortunately Rehau’s tool is cost prohibitive for any DYI repair or project.

[@SuperUbuntudude]

Thanks for this great info!

[@markstipulkoski1389]

Do all methods work equally well with all plumbing fixtures? Maybe some fixtures support the expansion method and other fixtures work with any of the other clamping methods?

[@jimeadie4415]

There is also the F2080 Comboloc expansion tool that expands the Pex and then pulls the metal collar tight into the Fitting. Everlock+ and Rehau.

[@Kudeghraw]

Working on de-galvanizing my plumbing and have to do it in stages. I use the crimp rings, the last connector you showed and Pex B because it is cheap and easy. The tool for that would be excellent if they changed the gear ratio of the ratchet mechanism to accommodate smaller hands instead of requiring hands the size of Shaquille O'neal for single hand use. I plan on going back over it with Pex A when I get "The tool". Have to figure out how to maintain the grounds connected to the old galvie now that the supplies are going to Pex. Don't want no fatal showers or anything.

[@davenoi9609]

PEX is a polyethylene material which has undergone a change in molecular structure using a chemical or a physical process whereby the polymer chains are chemically linked. Crosslinking of the polymer chains of polyethylene (HDPE) into PEX for pipes results in improved properties such as elevated temperature strength and performance, flexibility, chemical resistance, environmental stress crack resistance (ESCR), resistance to slow crack growth (SCG), toughness, and abrasion. Crosslinking makes PEX a "semi-thermoset" polymer, providing excellent long-term stability.

[@gibsonbuilds4841]

Idk why....i got in the habit of crimping the copper ring once....then a second 90 degree from the first. Good show.

[@duckhunter8387]

ThxQ guys

[@MrTexasDan]

Great summary ... very useful!

[@justinmizell3363]

oetiker clamps are used in many other uses, when i worked as a marine mechanic they were on many different hoses for pressure

[@rigmaster1]

Is it necessary to use the ratchet clamp tool on the stainless pinch (oetiker style) clamp rings? I have been using the Oetiker clamps for years on different projects (not household plumbing) and I use the Knipex oetiker clamp pliers, and they work fine. I don't mind buying the "correct" ratchet tool, but right now I only need to do about 6-8 clamps for a small project. Thanks.

[@GrenshawHomes1977]

I was sold on pex a expansion...built 7+ houses with it...always watched and learned from the plumbers...finally decided to plumb the casita myself...everything went great until 1 fitting(just wouldn't stop leaking)...plumber had to come help and he used pinch rings...no leak...so now Im torn...Im leaning torward pinch for next diy job..

[@peterlafayette5595]

Excellent vid

[@byronlentz4825]

I had a failure with the pinch type. A buddy and I ran the water to my kitchen remodel. A few weeks after the paint was dry in the kitchen, I noticed a large bubble forming behind the paint over the sink. My buddy came over and we found where the clamp was leaking. A replication of the pinch sealed it. I was able to drain the water out of the bubble with just a small wrinkle in the paint, We both learned how important it is to get a good pinch. We are planning a remodel of both bathrooms soon. I will make sure that everything is pinched well.

[@CBL138]

Question: is there an advantage or disadvantage to using the black plastic or brass (straight and elbows) fittings? Also, what PEX crimping device do you recommend for RV application? Thank you.

[@sewerrat7612]

Black are better for soft water seen brass ones corrode and fail within 8 years on wells. Had to repipe a few houses my old master did back in the day.

[@CBL138]

@@sewerrat7612 Thank you for the reply.

[@EET8689]

A nice feature of the crimp is you can cut the ring and redo it if necessary, also the shark bit can be removed like temporary using caps and removing them after rough-in…

[@carlweiskott7623]

I have been using ptc fittings for various repairs in my trailer. I was surprised to read that you can reuse these fittings a few times. Still feels like it "shouldn't" work as well as a crimped or compression fitting but so far so good

[@thunderrollin]

I like the Uponor because of the constant tension provided by the expansion then the pressure resulting from the collar constantly trying return to its original form

[@Acemechanicalservices]

Not to mention you don’t have to contort yourself to reach your work, have a nervous breakdown trying to get your tool on a ring that’s sliding all over the place, then strain to get the leverage to crimp the ring.

[@xoxo2008oxox]

Really helpful! Some tips: ProPress continues copper connections and current/ground. Environmental issues with copper in say, a pool house, would be better with Pex. Same with stainless fittings is some caustic or wet areas is better than copper or metal rings. Pex is susceptible to UV like sunlight, so an open-framed house in construction, you don't want Pex exposed to sunlight. And some Pex I've encountered (milky white) gets brittle under heat like a condensate pump from a furnace. ProPress/Press tools like Milwaukee are $$$$ and require sending to manufacturer after a number of presses to "re-calibrate" which for a plumber is downtime. ProPress/Viega fittings are very good but costly versus tradition sweat on copper. However, time is money but also saves the customer costs and adds value, along with easier on you in confined spaces. Matt- perhaps a second mic for these so we can hear you as clear as your guests?

[@fastway007]

Also with pro press no open flame

[@a_mouse6858]

We have an older hydronic heating system that uses ½" orange PEX. The fittings are brass with a toothed inner sleeve that slides into the PEX. Then you slide a split ring ferrule with angled surfaces over the sleeve area, and tighten the ferrule with a nut that compresses the ferrule. Does this have a name? I'm trying to find replacements!

[@stevem1081]

I can give you a few reasons why pex b is most popular, 1, I live in SC and pex b was all you could get from the supply house and from places like Lowes/Home Depot(years later, pex a showed up). 2, the pipe, fittings, tools are a lot cheaper for b, 3 Other reports say pex a leaches more chemicals into the water. The rings for a are bigger, when drilling through concrete, smaller bits are less expensive. The pinch type has a much smaller/cheaper tool, 1 size fits all. And just my opinion, I would not allow a shark bite fitting in my house, other than an emergency, have to wait to the next day to get it fixed kind of deal, why, it has a O-ring, in my 50 years of mechanic work, I have NEVER seen an O-ring that hasn't failed at some point, all types will fail at some point, but O-rings usually much sooner.

[@lrc87290]

Shark bites 20 years old. If they were failing you'd know about it. A lot of pro plumbers are using pro press now How does it seal? An O Ring

[@stevem1081]

@@lrc87290 the plumber putting in my gas line wanted to use pro press, I said no, not at my house. Yes, it is quick and easy, but like I said, o rings fail way faster than threads.

[@stevem1081]

@@lrc87290 yep, another fitting I will not allow on my property.

[@koljag5]

I have done 2 houses and a couple of remodels, all using pinch clamps. They work great. 1 inch lines suck to do and i broke pleanty of rings. Worked well though.

[@williamdorsey3203]

what about the stainless steel rings? How do you feel about them? I liked them because it was easier to get a crimp in a tight space because of the way the tool can be oriented in relationship to the pipe.

[@JalopyTechnology]

A 90* fitting increases the resistance to flow by 10x compared to street el or curved fitting. I had 90's on an hydraulic oil system that kept blowing off the hoses. My hydraulic engineer neighbor told me to use curved fittings and the issue was fixed.

[@theferallife8812]

No discussion is complete without mentioning product recall history.

[@RG-qn2qm]

I have used shark bite for 15yrs never had a problem. They my be more expensive but if time is money it's the best way to go.

[@paulpoco22]

The black rings crimped pex, someone said to use channel lock pliers plastic handles and squeeze the black ring slightly in proper place & then use the proper crimp tool.

[@jaydewitte2958]

Old boats made in the 80s have "pex" connections. Many years prior to its use in residential. If it withstands marine use, obviously, it's great for residential. My 1986 Carver never has had a leak, all original.

[@abrahamvaro5482]

Very nice video ,thanks

[@repairking1990]

Great video, just wish y’all would of said which Pex version is compatible with each of the 5 methods. Pex A, Pex B or both Pex A & Pex B. I personally know but for the sake of the video, I could see some DIY’rs get mixed up

[@justin7080]

Exactly the info I'm looking for. Wondering if I can use the single ear clamp style on existing pex-c tubing.

[@GeeplusSux-my6jt]

I've never met a plumber that would recommend push fittings for anything. PEX home run manifold is the way to go, at least in smaller homes.

[@tbi1161]

Nice video, thank you.

[@functionalvanconversion4284]

Great demo. Would have been nice to see the Zurn Pex B expansion demo and tool since it is said to be more durable than uponor pex A and pex B leaches less chemicals than pex A (just from information online). Hard feelings towards Viega since they came out with polybutelene and have failed to help out on 9 different projects.

[@ObservationofLimits]

Push to connect fittings have been around for DECADES. I am talking 50+ years. Used in industrial systems for years. Especially small tubing. Vinyl, polyurethane, copper, refrigeration copper, etc.

[@sylviacolburn1462]

Wonderfully-THOROUGH!!

[@Aepek]

8:15 The Pex A Sleeves also called stops, hats/tops, Rings and Collars; depending upon locale like anything in world.