How to Work With PEX Tubing
PEX, or crosslinked polyethylene, is a water supply piping system that is becoming more and more common in new construction and remodels. It is being used in lieu of PVC, CPVC, copper or galvanized iron pipe. It doesn't corrode or develop pinholes and is faster to install with fewer connections and fittings. PEX has no aftermarket and is not attractive to thieves the way copper is.
PEX has been in use in Europe since 1970, but only has been in use in the United States since 1980. PEX requires special tools to make the connections, but other than that it is easy to work with PEX tubing.
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Things You'll Need
- Tape measure
- PEX tubing
- PEX fittings
- PEX pipe cutter
- PEX crimping tool
- PEX de-crimping tool
- PEX support clamps
- Screws
- Cordless drill
Instructions
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Instructions
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1
Purchase the three main PEX tools from your local PEX supplier: the PEX pipe cutter, the crimping tool, and the de-crimping tool.
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2
Measure the length of PEX tubing you need. Check the allowances of any fittings you will be using to allow for enough overlap to slide the PEX tubing on. Cut the PEX at the adjusted length with the PEX pipe cutter. Make sure the end is cut squarely.
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3
Slide the copper crimp ring over the PEX tubing. Insert the fitting into the PEX tubing.
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4
Bring the copper crimp ring over where the fitting is inserted in the PEX tubing. Use the crimp tool and crimp the copper ring to the PEX tubing to lock the tubing to the fitting (see reference 1 for pictures).
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5
Support the PEX tubing every 3 feet horizontally along a joist, every 6 feet when laying on top of a joist or floor, and support it every floor when running vertically. Use PEX support clamps to anchor to joists or floor.
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6
Continue installing your PEX tubing until the system is complete.
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1
Tips & Warnings
When joining PEX to CPVC, copper, or galvanized iron pipe, purchase the correct fitting to make the appropriate connection.
You can use "stab-in" fittings to make PEX connections where you have access to the joint. These fittings make the connection by just pushing the PEX tubing into the fitting.
If you need to take a crimped fitting apart, the de-crimping tool will remove the copper crimp ring so that you can pull the fitting out of the PEX tubing.
