PEX Particulars
- Red PEX pipe carries hot water.
- Blue PEX pipe carries cold water.
- White PEX pipe can be used for either hot or cold water.
- Gray PEX pipe, like white, can be used for either hot or cold water (although not all DIY centers carry gray).
What is the difference between different colors of PEX?
- PEX A. This is cross-linked using the “Engel” process. It involves introducing peroxides, (a form of oxygen,) to the HDPE prior to forming it. ...
- PEX B. Technically referred to as a silane process, but is more often called steam or moisture cross-linking. ...
- PEX C. Cross-linking here is initiated by subjecting HDPE tube to an electron beam or gamma radiation. ...
Why are PEX pipes better than copper pipes?
PEX is better than copper piping for several reasons. PEX is a type of polymer tubing that costs much less than copper and is quicker to install. PEX tubing is also more flexible, requires fewer joints, and does not corrode like copper pipe.
What is the difference between PEX pipe and PVC pipe?
- Long life. PVC has a predicted lifespan of 50-70 years or more, compared with 40-50 years for PEX.
- Outdoor safety. PVC is fine to use outdoors, even above ground – you just need to cover the exterior of PVC piping with a coat of water-based paint.
- Eco-friendliness. Unlike PEX, old PVC piping is accepted for recycling once its useful life is done.
What does PEX mean in plumbing?
- Poly b piping is usually a gray color. However, it may also be white, silver, black, or blue. Blue pb, in particular, is primarily used outdoors.
- It's usually stamped with the code "PB2110."
- Unlike copper pipe, poly pipe is flexible. Sometimes it can even be curved.
- It's a half inch to an inch in diameter.
Does it matter what color PEX I use?
There are no performance differences between red, white, blue and white PEX and all are intended for use in potable water systems. The colors can be used to easily distinguish between hot and cold distribution lines.
What do the markings on PEX pipe mean?
A 1 signifies that the tubing meets the F876 requirements at 25% at 140 °F (60 °C) and 75% at 73 °F (23 °C). The number 3 indicates that the tubing meets the F876 requirements at 50% at 140 °F (60 °C) and 75% at 73 °F (23 °C). Finally, a 5 signifies that the tubing always meets the F876 requirements at 140 °F (60 °C).
Why is there white PEX?
PEX without an oxygen barrier is designed primarily for use in potable water plumbing systems. It is available in red, blue, and white to make classification of water lines easier (red for hot, blue for cold, white for supply lines or single-color systems). The color of PEX does not change any of the tubing's ratings.
What color is 3/4 PEX?
3/4" PEX Plumbing Pipe (100ft) blue.
How can I tell the difference between PEX A and PEX B?
Flexibility - PEX-A is the most flexible, allowing for it to be fastened by cold expansion, which allows the end to be fluted prior to inserting the fitting. PEX B is not expandable and you should never expand the end of a PEX-B pipe. Kink-Resistance - PEX-A has the greatest resistance, PEX-B the lowest.
Which is better PEX A or B?
Bottom line, PEX A is more resistant to burst pressure than PEX B. PEX A's expansive material can handle up to 500 PSI, which makes it reliable in extremely cold temperatures. Since PEX B is a more rigid material, it will not hold up as well in similar situations.
Is Blue PEX A or B?
Blue PEX-B Pipe (Coils)
Where is PEX not allowed?
PEX can't be installed in high heat areas. You can't install PEX in high heat areas like near recessed lighting. This also means you can't connect PEX directly to a hot water heater, but you can use a connecting material to do this.
How long do PEX pipes last?
30 to 50 yearsWhile you can expect PEX to last for 30 to 50 years, copper piping will outdo it by about two decades, with a typical lifespan of 50 to 70 years. Copper is a more durable option that isn't susceptible to rodents or sunlight. These pipes can easily handle water pressure of up to 1,000 psi.
Can I use white PEX for hot and cold?
White PEX pipe can be used for either hot or cold water. Gray PEX pipe, like white, can be used for either hot or cold water (although not all DIY centers carry gray).
What is orange PEX used for?
Designed for use on hot and cold potable water lines, Orange PEX tubing is commonly used for radiant floor and hydronic heating applications.
How do I know what size PEX I need?
1:102:01How to Size PEX Pipe for Home Plumbing - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipWe are talking about the inside diameter of the hole through the middle of the pipe. That should beMoreWe are talking about the inside diameter of the hole through the middle of the pipe. That should be right around a half inch. The outside diameter of a pex pipe should be about a quarter inch bigger.
What color is PEX?
Water flows silently through PEX, eliminating the “water hammer” noise associated with metal piping. Color-coding (red and blue) make it simple to distinguish hot and cold supply lines. PEX can be connected to existing metal supply lines with the correct fittings.
What is PEX pipe?
Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX), a type of flexible plastic, is currently replacing traditional copper and galvanized steel as water supply lines in both new construction and remodeling projects. You’ve probably seen rolls of blue and red PEX pipe in the plumbing aisle of your local home improvement store, but might not know that this colorful tubing now makes it possible for enthusiastic DIYers to replace their own leaky water lines instead of calling a pro. Read on to learn more about PEX—what it is, where it can be used, and all the pros and cons of this popular plumbing material.
What type of fittings are used for PEX?
Hundreds of types of fittings, usually brass, are available for connecting PEX to existing copper or steel pipes, and for making connections to fixtures. Fittings are also available for connecting pipes of different sizes. The following five methods are used for making the connections watertight. Photo: amazon.com.
What is PEX tubing?
Choose the tubing best suited to your needs: PEX-A is manufactured using peroxide. This type of PEX is the most flexible of the three types and is suitable for use in all home water-supply plumbing needs.
What is the advantage of PEX pipe?
PEX has a distinct advantage over these materials because of its flexibility, which allows one end of PEX pipe to connect to a PEX manifold (the main water control system) and then wind through walls and floors—uninterrupted—all the way to an individual fixture.
What type of PEX pipe is used for hot water?
Blue PEX pipe carries cold water. White PEX pipe can be used for either hot or cold water. Gray PEX pipe, like white, can be used for either hot or cold water (although not all DIY centers carry gray).
How long is a PEX pipe?
PEX is available in a variety of lengths, from short 10-foot pieces (for small repairs) to rolls over 500 feet long, which are used to install a home’s entire water supply system. PEX pipe ranges from 3/8- to 1-inch in diameter and its color-coding makes it a snap to identify what a specific pipe is used for. Although there are three types of PEX (see Label Lingo, below), the different colors don’t connote the distinctions; they simply make it easy for the installer to identify which lines carry hot water and which carry cold.
What does the color yellow mean?
Yellow Color Meaning. The color of happiness and optimism. Yellow is a cheerful and energetic color that brings fun and joy to the world. It makes learning easier as it affects the logical part of the brain, stimulating mentality and perception. It inspires thought and curiosity and boosts enthusiasm and confidence.
What is the color of passion?
The color of passion and energy. Red draws attention like no other color and radiates a strong and powerful energy that motivates us to take action. It is also linked to sexuality and stimulates deep and intimate passion. Red is ubiquitously used to warn and signal caution and danger. Read more about the color red. 2.
What does green mean in life?
Green is a generous, relaxing color that revitalizes our body and mind. It balances our emotions and leaves us feeling safe and secure. It also gives us hope, with promises of growth and prosperity, and it provides a little bit of luck to help us along the way. Read more about the color green. 5.
What color is good for trust?
The color of trust and loyalty. Blue has a calming and relaxing effect on our psyche, that gives us peace and makes us feel confident and secure. It dislikes confrontation and too much attention, but it is an honest, reliable and responsible color and you can always count on its support.
What is the color of stability?
The color of stability and reliability. Brown is dependable and comforting. A great counselor and friend full of wisdom. You can count on its help if you need an honest opinion, support and protection. It stabilizes us, helps us stay grounded and inspires us to appreciate the simple things in life.
What does purple symbolize?
Purple inspires us to divulge our innermost thoughts, which enlightens us with wisdom of who we are and encourages spiritual growth. It is often associated with royalty and luxury, and its mystery and magic sparks creative fantasies.
Why do colors elude us?
This concept often eludes us because we don’t realize how frequently colors control us. Certain hues can evoke fond memories. Others may give rise to dreadful feelings.
