PEX Tubing - How To Install

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by: darcey.stawarz Total views: 33 Word Count: 743 Date: Sun, 14 Feb 2010 Time: 5:14 PM 0 comments


PEX plumbing was developed in the 1960s and is more formally called 'cross-linked polyethylene'. Although an old technology it is only recently being used in U.S. plumbing. A popular application of PEX piping is in radiant heat systems.

PEX is a bendable plastic pipe that has been toughened by a special chemical process that gives strength to the polyethylene. It is quickly becoming popluar to use PEX in residential plumbing applications. From below freezing almost all the way to boiling this piping is able to handle extereme temperatures. The installation of PEX pipe is relatively inexpensive so you can kiss that high plumber’s bill good-bye! Another benefit is that PEX piping is quieter than the fixed pipe systems traditionally used. You can connect PEX rather easily, and it can be bent in order to follow corners in much the same manner as when you use a water irrigation system. It is also commonly used in many European countries as well as in the United States for snow melting application and radiant heating.

Due to its durability it is perfect for hot and cold water systems. It has become popular with skating rinks and commercial refrigeration due to the reduce risk of breakage from freezing. Ultimtely check with your local authority as not all building code have been updated to allow PEX to be used. PEX is not suitable for outdoor, above ground use because it has to be kept out of direct exposure to sunlight.

Another big benefit of PEX is there are fewer fittings to work with making it simpler and easier to use. Over time most plumbing problems come from failed joints. However, with PEX this will occur in fewer places in the system.

On To Installing PEX Tubing

You install PEX by a crimp-ring system. It will help to make tightly sealed connections that are permanent and leak proof. First a strong brass fitting is placed into the end of the tubing. Now make use of a crimp tool that has a positive interlocking jaw action, lastly you place a copper ring around the tube and fitting and crimp it.

Tools

You should have the following tools on hand:

* Full-circle crimping tool
* Utility knife
* Copper manifolds
* PEX crimp fittings
* Shutoff valves
* Flexible tubing cutter
* Go/Go-go gauge
* PEX supply pipe
* Transition fittings
* Copper and plastic hangers

Making Pipe Connections

* First you measure and cut the tubing to length. Take care that you create NO burrs (if you have a good cutting tool, this will help prevent these). Ineffective tools cause improper connections.
* Place the crimp-ring onto the piping. Hose clamps are not appropriate.
* Insert fitting into the tubing all the way to the fitting shoulder.
* Place crimp ring approximately 1/8" to ¼" from end of tube. Outside of that range can cause a weak connection resulting in leakage.
* Now make use of the crimping tool and completely cover crimp ring by the jaws of the tool. It is important to maintain a 90 degree angle and ensure a completely closed crimp-ring.

The beauty of PEX plumbing is that it can be installed, reapaired and maintained by the homeowner much more easily than fixed-pipe can be. Be sure to use quality tools that are in very good condition so that you will have an efficient end result.

Don't Forget To Inspect

You should use a bit of finesse to inspect your job. It is quite important that you finish the joint job correctly. When you are inspecting look for these things:

* The ring has been crimped over the tubing’s end.
* Not enough ribs are covered.
* The crimp tool was not at 90 degrees to the piping.. The plastic has been dented and there the ribs have not been covered adequately
* The copper crimp ring has not been completely covered by the crimping tool. The ring will be distorted and not create a uniform crimp.
* The tubing has not been squarely cut. Fitting ribs will be exposed.

Looking to install PEX Plumbing? Then you will need the tools, parts and supplies to get the job done right. Go now to get everything you need at:

http://plumbingwithpex.com

Source: http://www.breezearticles.com

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Trinh Qual Jaconskii






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