You wouldn’t believe it, but you can install PEX pipes on your own without having to call a plumber. It’s easy especially if you’re a DIYer.
As we all know, PEX pipes they are excellent choices for water, especially cold lines and outdoor fixtures. They can even be installed without having to hide them. Installing these pipes requires no welding or soldering, which is the main reason why you can do it yourself.
In this article, we will have an overview of PEX pipes and take a look at the step-by-step method of installing PEX pipes.
PEX Pipes: What Are These Pipes?
In general, PEX pipes they are flexible pipes being used instead of copper and steel. For DIY enthusiasts, these tubes are popular because they are easy to use and install.
PEX is the short term for cross-linked polyethylene. Back then, these pipes were used because they were known to be durable.
In addition to elasticity and value for money, using these pipes gives you the following advantages:
- PEX supply is impervious to corrosion, mineral buildup, and degradation compared to traditional steel and copper that are galvanized.
- PEX pipes are also very efficient. They have amazing thermal resistance and prevent heat loss.
- Because they are made of plastic, these pipes do not make irritating noises. When water passes through them, with proper installation, you won’t have to worry about those rattling sounds you usually hear from steel and iron pipes.
- The best option for supplying potable water to your home’s sink.
Of course, to be fair, there is also some disadvantages when it comes to PEX pipes. Some of these are as follows:
- If you fail to install these pipes properly, you can cause not only the pipes to crack, but also the pockets when leaks occur.
- Cannot be located in locations or areas where pipes may be exposed to heat. Thus, this also means that these pipes will not be suitable for heaters.
- UV light it affects the quality of your PEX pipes and the water that flows through them. This means that these pipes should not be placed in an area in direct sunlight.
- Chlorinated waters can damage PEX pipes and you drinking water it can also be contaminated with PEX pipes.
- Susceptible to damage by rodents and pests due to pipes made of plastic. Unfortunately, this can cause contamination of drinking water.
Before installing these pipes, you should consider these advantages and disadvantages, especially if the environment in your home can affect the quality of these pipes.
Materials needed when installing PEX pipes
For PEX plumbing experts, there are two important things to remember when installing PEX piping. The first is the materials needed and the second is the skills.
If you know you have the latter, here are some materials you’ll want to collect beforehand installing PEX tubing.
1. Fixing clamps or crimping rings
These stainless steel clamps are essential when installing PEX tubing. They are used to secure the joint of the PEX pipe.
Generally, these two are different from each other. Retaining clips, also known as snap clips, have a portion that is supposed to hold the clip to make room for a connection. This portion is actually raised and when you have finished inserting the tube into this raised portion, you will need to pinch it to complete the process.
Crimp rings, on the other hand, are circular metals that basically look like simple wedding rings. They are used by sliding tubes inside them. Using a crimping tool, this copper ring will then be compressed to complete the process.
2. Push fittings
These compression fittings are also essential for piping. They are used to seal your pipes and are much easier to use as all you have to do is push them and they will eventually fit into your pipes.
The only thing to consider here is that you should know the right fittings for your pipes. When you buy pipes, some manufacturers already include these PEX fittings in your packages. If yours doesn’t have one, you can go to a hardware store and ask the staff to choose the best fittings for your pipes.
3. PEX cutter
If you always want to get a smooth cut on the end of your PEX pipes, having a PEX cutter it is highly recommended. PEX cutters generally work for large pipes as well, and all you have to do is use it like a pair of scissors.
If you don’t have a PEX cutter, you can use a PVC cutter instead. Remember, if you have round pipe ends, this can cause the water connection to fail.
4. Decrimination tool for PEX
This PEX material is optional, but if you have a spare penny, we recommend getting one. Generally, this crimp tool is used to easily remove clamps and rings without damaging your pipes.
5. Crimping tool for PEX
If you don’t want to clamp or tighten the rings by hand, you can use a PEX crimp tool or crimping tool instead.
For easier crimping, there are ratchet tools that you can purchase as well. These tools are perfectly suited for rings and clamps during the compression and crimping process.
Installing PEX Pipe: Step by Step
After knowing the necessary materials, we will now discuss about proper installation of PEX piping. If you are new to home repair and construction, following the steps below will be of great help.
1. Find the pipe route
When we talk about pipe routing, we mean proper installation planning. First, you need to plan, and on that planning, here are some of the things you want to consider:
- The number of PEX pipes you need
- How long should the PEX pipe sleeve be?
- Do you also need copper pipes?
- Where should you install the pipes and how many fittings are needed
If you don’t have the materials yet, it’s best to write them down on a piece of paper before you head to a store to get them, to make sure you’ll be able to purchase all the materials you’ll need.
2. Make sure all materials are complete
Before you start working, you are also encouraged to draw a sketch of your work. Make sure you know where the pipes and valves are and where you should place the fittings, rings or clamps.
If you want to work on your water heaters, do not connect the PEX pipes directly, as they will be damaged. Instead, use a heating line for both hot and cold water lines.
3. Place the PEX tubing
There are many ways to place your PEX tubing, and the common ones are vertically and horizontally. For the former you should put support at least every 122 cm, and for the latter, 82 cm.
This technique is done to keep the tubing still and supported no matter how much water pressure is put through it. For better support, you can also consider using lug bends, shut-off valves and iron adapter fittings.
4. Secure the tubes securely
When installing PEX pipes, be sure to use the proper clamps and grommets. When installing these rings, you must slide them to at least 0.25 inches from the end of the pipe.
When placing a ring, make sure to grip it tightly. As much as possible, remember to fit all the necessary rings as this can cause leaks and damage in the future.
5. Run a test
After installation, you need to run a test. Open the water main and check the piping for leaks. If there isn’t, you’re good to go!
However, if there are leaks, you should insert new rings or clamps. For removing worn rings, you may consider a de-crimp tool. When you’re done, give the tube some time to dry. After a few hours, come back, open the water pipe and check for leaks again.
Final thoughts
Indeed, PEX pipe is one of the best pipes you can use today. They are efficient, flexible and easy to use when you want to repair frozen PEX pipes.
Although these pipes offer many benefits, you must also understand that they come with disadvantages, the most common of which is their susceptibility to heat and damage.
However, if you still want to consider these pipes, you can. In fact, you can even install them yourself, as long as you have the necessary tools, such as fittings and cutters.
Before installing PEX tubing, you should at least plan ahead. After installation, you should check for leaks to ensure a successful installation. You will also know if you have done the installation correctly when the water supply lines have been measured.
