PEX Piping

PEX Piping

Are you buying a new home in the greater Jacksonville area? If you are you should be aware that the national builders, in many cases are installing PEX piping on the potable water system.   

Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) is a high-temperature, flexible, polymer pipe. Cross-linking technology was first developed in Europe and has since come into use around the world for a variety of applications. PEX has a 30-year history of successful use in the European market with extensive testing for durability and material performance.

PEX is not polybutylene piping (PB) and as a system has had to overcome objections with both consumers and code officials.  Not all plastics are the same, just as not all metals are the same. Polymer fittings for PEX pipe are far more robust and reliable than those used for PB. A result of modern polymer technology, PEX piping performs in ways that provide superior reliability, durability, and safety.

There are many benefits of PEX piping systems:

• Ease of Installation – PEX pipe uses mechanical connections eliminating the need for solders, flames, and chemicals. Its flexible nature allows it to bend around obstructions. Use of manifolds can speed installation and improve performance.

• Corrosion Resistance – PEX piping will not pit or stress corrode.

• Scaling Resistance – PEX pipe’s smooth interior walls and chemical properties make it resistant to mineral build-up.

• Cost Effectiveness – PEX plumbing systems are less labor intensive and can optimize system performance.

• Availability of Pipe Sizes – PEX piping is available in a wide range of diameters.

• Energy Efficiency – PEX piping minimizes heat transmission through the pipe wall.

• Resistance to Freeze Damage – Under most circumstances, water in the pipe can be frozen and thawed without damaging the pipe.

• Water Conservation – Well designed PEX plumbing systems can reduce the wait time for hot water to reach the fixture.

• Environmentally Sound – PEX is an inert material and does not contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

• Certification – PEX pipes and fittings must meet strict performance requirements.

PEX piping can be installed using one of three different.

           Trunk and line. This is the traditional method of installation.

  

      Home Run. Uses a centralized manifold and straight runs to each fixture (hot/cold).

3     Modified. Uses a combination of remote manifolds and trunk and branch.

When you have the ability to select the best method we would encourage the use of the home run/manifold system. It may use more piping but you have significantly less fittings, will have quicker delivery of hot water, and will waste less water.

  

References:        (1) Uponor Installation Guide

                           (2) Aquapex-Professional Plumbing Installation Guide

                           (3)  DESIGN GUIDE, Residential PEX Water Supply Plumbing Systems