Plumbing Tips for Installing PEX Pipes
Jun 01, 2022
Decide the location of the pipe – If you pre-planned your project, you already have an idea of the feet of the PEX pipe you will need and its location. Check locations and measure one last time before continuing. Cut each length of pipe and then place hangers. A hanger should be placed every 32-inches for a run of horizontally placed PEX pipe. For vertical PEX piping installation, secure the pipe every four to six feet.
Measure your PEX pipe twice – Yes, it is a less expensive plumbing pipe but if you cut a 20 foot run of PEX pipe an inch or two short, you will have a problem. PEX pipe can expand and contract 1-inch for every 100-feet. Keep this in mind when measuring and add a little ‘slack’ in the line when installing PEX pipe.
Cut your PEX pipe once – Now that you've measured your pipe, you can cut it into proper lengths. One of the most important plumbing tips about PEX piping installation is cutting the pipe. Cuts need to be as exact as possible and burr free. If the cut is not even and smooth, the PEX fitting may not seat properly, causing leakage.
Slide the crimp ring on – Place the crimp ring approximately two inches away from the end of the PEX pipe. This will give you enough space to place the fitting onto the end of the PEX pipe.
Perform PEX pipe fitting – Place the PEX fitting with the shoulder touching the tube. Once in place, slide the crimp ring over the barbs of the PEX fitting and align the barbs.
Crimp the PEX fitting - Open the jaws of the PEX crimping tool and align them so that they cover the crimp ring. Close the jaws of the PEX crimp tool firmly while holding the pipe steady. The fitting should now be sealed and can be checked with the go/no-go gauge, which should fit partially onto the crimp ring. If it slips all the way down the pipe, you need to redo your connection.
Place the pipe – Now that you have your connectors installed to the PEX pipe you can run the pipe, place it into its hangers, and connect it to the water system. Turn on the water, and check for leaks.
