PEX is a water plumbing system made from high density polyethylene tubes. special PEX fittings are utilized to link up PEX tubing. PEX tubing is a supple material that is simpler and less pricey to install, is resistant to erosion and requires fewer fittings than older plumbing arrangements.

In cold temps PEX tubes retain their flexibility and do not become delicate and crack. Unlike metal pipes, PEX tubes will not rust and will not acquire scale. PEX tubing is energy efficient as well because they will not conduct heat.

PEX tubing is wrapped in reels. Because reels weigh less than cut metal or plastic pipes, they are simpler to store and cost less to ship. Tubing can be unwound from the spools with no demand for coupling fittings. Installing is much quicker and less pricey when it does not involve the running of pipe.

Connecting the tubes is done by placing a fitting into or over the pipe and then pinching a ring positioned over the pipe or fitting. There are a few unique joining methods. Some use metal crimp rings and others use crimp rings constructed of plastic. One arrangement uses a stainless steel clamp. Most fittings are brass although some are constructed of other metals or plastic. Because PEX tubing is flexible and can be bent to a 90 degree angle elbow joints are not needed.

The tools you will use when installing PEX are a PEX pipe cutter, a main crimping tool and a de-crimping tool. The PEX pipe cutter comes in different sizes for 1/2″ and 3/4″ size tubes. Rings are crimped employing the crimping tool. The de-crimping tool is employed for removing rings from tubes or fittings.

The most popular material employed to make fittings for PEX plumbing is brass. However, you can get fittings built from other metals and even plastic. Fittings have ridges that when crimped make a high-pressure seal.

Employing the system of PEX fittings in addition to PEX tubing has distinct advantages over metal and plastic piping. It is less costly than rigid plastic and copper piping . It can be put in right from the spools. It needs less fittings. It last longer because it is not susceptible to erosion.