Can PEX be connected to a hot water heater?

PEX tubing may be connected directly to residential electric tank or tankless (instantaneous) water heaters, if the local code and manufacturer’s instructions allow. When connecting PEX tube to gas tank or tankless water heaters, the tube must be kept at least 6 inches away from the exhaust vent of the heater.

Can you use blue PEX for hot water?





Color-Coded: Red PEX pipes can be used for hot water supply lines, blue PEX for cold water supply, and white for either hot or cold. These colors are just for your convenience. Plumbing code does not require the pipe color to match the type of water supply.

What is the life expectancy of PEX pipe?

Myth: PEX tubing has a short life span. Fact: The life span of PEX tubing can vary based on frequency of use, water quality and water temperature and has an average life expectancy of 40-50 years.

Does PEX restrict water flow?

The reality is that even PEX expansion fittings, which are sometimes referred to as “full-flow,” restrict flow rates.

What are the disadvantages of PEX?

PEX Plumbing Disadvantages

  • PEX may leach BPA and other toxic chemicals. …
  • PEX is extremely sensitive to UV light. …
  • PEX can be damaged by chemicals and pests. …
  • PEX can’t be installed in high heat areas. …
  • PEX is semi-permeable, which means liquid can enter the pipe.





Is PEX pipe good for plumbing?

All this makes PEX an excellent piping material for hot and cold water systems, especially since it is flexible and well adapted for temperatures below freezing all the way up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. PEX is easy for plumbers to install and has fewer joints, bringing your costs down.

How hot can PEX pipe handle?

180 degrees

The maximum heat temperature of the PEX tube is 200 degrees. The maximum heat of the PEX can be up to 180 degrees. The PEX tubing has the highest temperature limitation listed in small prints.

Which PEX is best for hot water?



Red PEX pipe carries hot water. Blue PEX pipe carries cold water. White PEX pipe can be used for either hot or cold water.

What is wrong with PEX plumbing?

PEX piping has a maximum bend radius, which can lead to stress on the pipe caused by improper installation. In addition, extreme bends and kinks place a very high local stress on the wall of the pipe, making it more susceptible to oxidative degradation.

Do you lose water pressure going from copper to PEX?

You do not lose pressure or volume flow rate by using the larger ID.

Should I replace my copper pipes with PEX?



While copper is an excellent material, no material is perfect. You can develop some problems with your copper pipes, and PEX is often a great replacement that can eliminate these problems. Keep hot water hot: PEX keeps the water warmer as it flows through the pipe so that you get hotter water on the other end.

Does PEX affect water pressure?

PEX plumbing systems don’t allow the water pressure to drop.

Is it better to bend PEX or elbow?

Use PEX bend supports instead of elbows.



While these, unlike elbow fittings, cannot provide a sharp turn, they are suitable for most frame homes and will provide a certain degree of protection for the pipe from rigid/abrasive stud edges.

How often should PEX be supported?

Make sure that PEX is adequately supported



Horizontal runs of PEX must be supported every 32 inches if hanging, or every 72 inches if installed above beams. For vertical runs, PEX must be supported at least once per floor, and also keep in mind that joints add weight and require dedicated support as well.

Can I put heat tape on PEX pipe?



No. You should not use any type of adhesive material on PEX pipe as over time the adhesive material can interact with the PEX and leech into your water. You can use a heating strip wrapped around the pipe so long as it has no adhesive material.

What temp will PEX pipe freeze?

20° F

At What Temperature Do PEX Pipes Freeze? Generally, cold temperatures of 20° F and lower will cause the formation of ice in your uninsulated water lines which will cause your pipes to freeze. All types of pipes can freeze, regardless of your pipe’s material.

Will frozen PEX pipes burst?

Don’t Believe the Myth of Freeze-Proof Pipes



Whether you’re working with copper, CPVC or PEX – you are not automatically protected from frozen and burst pipes. All of these materials can and will burst when frozen, under the right conditions.

Will PEX pipe freeze and bust?



PEX pipe will expand if frozen and contract to its original shape when thawed. But putting frequent stress on the system weakens it, increasing chances of failure and leaks. So, to preserve the strength of your pipes, you should use the same standard insulation precautions with PEX to keep it from freezing.

Can PEX pipes burst?

PEX pipes, just like any pipe, can freeze when the temperature drops too low. Because the pipes are designed to be flexible, PEX has the ability to expand. Although it is still possible for them to burst, this means PEX pipes are less likely to rupture after freezing.

Should I use copper or PEX?

PEX pipe is not only cheaper than copper but more durable too. PEX is immune to corrosion and mineral build-up, and it’s not affected by electrolysis, which can cause small pinhole leaks in copper piping. Copper pipes can last anywhere from six months to the life of a building.