PEX products offer solutions to your plumbing and heating problems

Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) molecular chains are formed into plastic tubing that can be used to solve a variety of plumbing and heating problems. Since its invention in the 1960s, PEX has been widely used in Europe. In the last 10 to 15 years, it has become increasingly popular in the United States. The material has been touted as being more flexible, less expensive, and better at withstanding extreme temperatures than copper or CPVC pipe. PEX tubing can withstand temperatures as high as just below the boiling point (200 degrees Fahrenheit, 12 degrees less than the boiling point) and as low as just before freezing. PEX-a is the most flexible type of PEX and is capable of expanding in sub-zero temperatures and then springing back, while copper tubing will burst, causing major problems in your system.

Three grades of PEX tubing are manufactured, each through a different production process. PEX-a, manufactured using the Engel method, is known to be the strongest and most flexible of the three grades. PEX-b, made using the Silane method, is also relatively strong and flexible. PEX-c, made using the electron beam method, is a more brittle material, making it difficult to work with. Regardless of the grade you choose, there are PEX products like PEX cutters and uncoilers that make it easy to handle material during installation.

Important details to know when purchasing PEX tubing:

1. Will you be using the pipe for a plumbing or heating application?
2. What size pipe will you need? Available sizes typically range from 5/16″ to 4″. Some applications require specific sizes; for example, only Quik Trak can only be installed with 5/16″ pipe.
3. Want to color code your plumbing system for easy reference? Red, white and blue tubes are available for this purpose. There is no difference in functionality, but red is typically used for hot lines and blue for cold lines.
4. What length of tubing will you need? Tubing can generally be purchased in 50 to 1,200 foot coils. The amount of tubing needed will depend on the size of the area you are installing and the length of the loops.
5. What grade of PEX material will you need? PEX tubing comes in three material grades PEX-a, PEX-b, and PEX-c as mentioned above. If you are in a region where it gets very cold, you should use PEX-a to avoid the risk of your pipes bursting if they freeze. You will also need to use PEX-a if you choose the ProPEX Expander system because only PEX-a is flexible enough to return to its shape and create a secure fit after expanding.
6. What type of tubing is needed for your specific application? The three types of tubing are oxygen barrier, oxygen-free barrier, and aluminum PEX. Oxygen barrier tubing is typically used for heating applications and helps prevent iron components, such as cast iron pumps, from rusting. The main benefit of aluminum PEX, or PEX-AL-PEX, is that it holds its shape when bent. PEX-AL-PEX is typically used for high temperature applications such as baseboards.

When working on a PEX project, whether it’s for a heating or plumbing system, you’ll need a variety of products in addition to PEX tubing. PEX fittings (specialized parts designed to connect PEX to PEX or PEX to copper) and PEX tools (tools specifically designed to work with PEX products) will be crucial to the success of your heating or plumbing project. You’ll also need a PEX radiant heat manifold or PEX plumbing manifold, as well as insulation, thermostats, and other installation parts. Controls such as thermostats and thermal insulation can also be purchased. Basic radiant heat and PEX plumbing packages can also be found online to make it easy for DIYers to get everything they need for their project in one place.

Plumbing and heating problems have been solved with PEX products for decades. These products are made of a polymer material that is flexible, less expensive, and better able to withstand extreme temperatures than copper or CPVC pipe. There are many options to consider when planning your project and it is important to choose parts that are compatible with all the other parts you have chosen and with your system. Consider PEX tubing and PEX products for your next heating or plumbing job.