An expansion tank is only required when the water supply system has a backflow prevention device or check valve. The extra pressure caused by thermal expansion was apparently an issue in the home. I would strongly suggest that you include it in your new set up. Don’t rely on the pex to expand and relieve the pressure.
Can you run PEX to expansion tank?
Cut a piece of PEX to run between the expansion tank and the tee-fitting that you inserted in the hot water tank cold water supply line. If you have other fittings between the two, you will need to cut pieces of PEX to connect those as well.
How do you transition from copper to PEX?
Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: The fastest and easiest way to connect PEX directly to copper pipe is by using sharkbite connections. These connections require no tools and no soldering.
Can I replace a section of copper pipe with PEX?
As a compromise between complete re-piping of the entire house and small patches, you can replace large sections (10 feet or longer) of exposed copper pipe with PEX, branching out where needed.
Is it worth it to replace copper with PEX?
Coupled with low production and shipping costs, the savings resulting from installing PEX instead of copper pipes can be significant. Better Energy Efficiency – PEX has a lower thermal conductivity rate than copper. As a result, PEX pipes can help keep hot water hotter for longer periods of time.
Is it code to have an expansion tank on water heater?
The California Plumbing Code (Section 608.3) and the California Mechanical Code (Section 1005.0) requires a thermal expansion tank, or listed equivalent, to be installed to water heating systems to relieve excessive building pressure during the heating process.
Should you drain expansion tank?
Draining the expansion tank should be done periodically, usually once or twice a year. We recommend doing this maintenance before the cool season so you don’t have to work with hot water and risk getting burned. Turn off the boiler and close the water supply valve.
Can you use PEX and copper together?
PEX works well with existing copper plumbing. There is no concern that any of the materials used in either type of pipe will negatively react to the other type of pipe, making them very compatible. The two types of pipe easily connect together using several different types of connectors, such as: Solder-on.
Can SharkBite go from copper to PEX?
Quote from the video:
Quote from Youtube video: Now i call it a horseshoe it's a release for the sharkbite fitting on this side it's kind of an open cavity. On this side it's flat i always use the flat. Side i've been told that you're supposed to
Where should you not use PEX?
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.
What is the life expectancy of PEX plumbing?
Additionally, long-term testing programs on PEX have shown that it has a potential lifespan of more than 100 years. So, while copper systems may have to be re-piped every few years or decades due to corrosion and pinhole leaks, a PEX system can last 10 times longer — or more.
Do rats eat PEX pipe?
The Problem
Mice and rats will chew through anything they can, including plastic, so PEX tubing is at just as much risk as the plastic-coated wiring in a car or an HVAC unit. While all rodent damage can be expensive, if rodents chew through a home’s PEX water pipes, the result can be disastrous.
Is PEX safe for drinking water?
There are no health risks associated with drinking water from PEX pipes. A few types of PEX-pipe may cause prolonged undesirable taste and odour if the water remains in pipes over time.
Is it better to crimp or cinch PEX?
If you are looking for a fast and more secure connection that will stand the test of time, crimp tools are your better option. But if you want more flexibility without working more, go for PEX clamps.
Can I 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.
How long does PEX last vs copper?
Although copper piping takes significantly longer to install, it does provide a longer overall lifespan. Copper manufacturers typically offer a 50 year warranty in comparison to 25 years for PEX, but this of course may vary by supplier.
Is it cheaper to run PEX or copper?
On average, installing copper water pipes will be 58 percent to 68 percent more expensive than PEX. For example, you could expect to pay $8,000 to $10,000 to have a plumber replace the old pipes with new copper pipes in an average, two-bath, 1,500-square-foot home versus $4,000 to $6,000 for PEX.
What causes pinhole leaks in PEX pipe?
Pinhole leaks are unique to copper pipes and are caused when corrosion inside the pipe eats through to the outside, creating a leak.
Is PEX better for hard water?
While copper, PVC and PEX pipes are more resistant to hard water buildup and corrosion, they can still get clogged or completely blocked by scale deposits.
Can you use Drano with PEX pipes?
All Drano® products are safe and can be used with plastic pipes or metal pipes. Just follow the label directions so you can clear that clog safely.
What is the lifespan of copper pipe?
70 to 80 years
Brass, cast iron, and galvanized steel have a life span of 80 to 100 years, copper lasts 70 to 80 years, and PVC piping only survives for 24 to 45 years. In most new construction, this is seldom a problem, but if you live in an old home you might want to see what pipe material your house has.
