Plumbing with PEX Tubing

PEX tubing is a modified polyethylene material that has good properties for use instead of piping in the water distribution system. A PEX plumbing system uses PEX tubing which includes 3/8 inch, ½ inch and ¾ inch diameters. PEX tubing makes it possible to utilize long tubing that runs between the source of hot water and the fixture. This is done without the need for elbows and other fittings. This will maintain pressure drops to the lowest and reduces a lot of labor.

Usually PEX systems will have a main trunk line or lines connecting to manifolds. The manifolds have a shut off valve at each outlet. This is due to the fact that the individual piping runs can be turned off individually. 3/8 tubing is often used for the run from the manifold to the particular fixtures.

There are some wonderful advantages to PEX Tubing as well as some disadvantages. Together with the small diameter tubing the actual water speed is high and therefore the hot water reaches the fixture more quickly than with a conventional piping system. The reduced quantity of water included within the actual tubing end results in a small conservation of water in comparison to standard piping systems.

Additional possible benefits include the actual ability to be able to expand enough in order to absorb water hammer that has a tendency of decreasing the actual noise coming from abruptly switching off the water. Another benefit is the capability to be able to resist scale build up. Pex tubing ought to not be subjected to sunlight and cannot be used wherever it will be subjected to reflected sunlight.

Another advantage of the PEX Tubing is that it varies in color, which enables the homeowner to distinguish between the hot and cold water supply lines. The colors are natural which are basically a hazy clear color as well as colors like red, black, white and blue.  The tube is usually marked on the outside to advise which standard that the pipe meets.

PEX tubing is easier to install than the copper piping.  Installation does not require any soldering, flames or chemicals. It makes less noise than the copper piping due to their flexibility. They also have the ability to absorb surges of pressure.

The disadvantages of PEX tubing is that the possibility of contamination is increased because pipes do not require a impermeable membrane. There is a possibility of damage due to the exposure of ultra violet radiation if exposed for an unlimited amount of time.

Overall, PEX tubing is a great creation and addition to any plumbing job. The tubing is more flexible and is immune to scaling. One major thing about this product is that it is very good for the environment. This is another reason for the increase use of this product. The product is also safe to install and safe for its surroundings.  The tubing’s are stronger and last longer than any other tubing’s. Pex tubing has many advantages which out weight the disadvantages.