PEX A vs PEX B: Pros and Cons đŸ€”

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  • čas pƙidĂĄn 9. 06. 2024
  • Which is better: PEX A or PEX B? Quin Williams of Williams Plumbing breaks down the pros and cons of each, and reveals which type of PEX our plumbers regularly use in the field.
    0:00 Introduction
    1:04 Cost
    2:19 Joining Method
    5:10 Sizing the System
    5:57 Burst Pressure
    6:28 Summary
    7:40 Verdict
    🔧 Subscribe to our channel: / williamsplumbingheating
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    ⚙ Connect with Quin Williams on LinkedIn: / quin-williams
    Williams is the Northwest’s largest plumbing and civil contractor. We offer a comprehensive line of quality plumbing, civil construction, HVAC, green energy, consulting, and service solutions to meet the needs of just about any building project.
    Williams Plumbing & Heating, Inc.
    2131 Industrial Dr.
    Bozeman, MT 59715
    (406) 587-0969
    www.willplumb.com/
  • Jak na to + styl

Komentáƙe • 959

  • @willplumb
    @willplumb  Pƙed 3 lety +22

    If you want to learn how to size your water lines with PEX, watch our newer video here: czcams.com/video/GaIjYGmwTr0/video.html

    • @spencer1001100
      @spencer1001100 Pƙed 3 lety +2

      Hey William's plumbing and heating. Did you know they make cold expansion rings now? Closes in the cold and wont slip off if wet. They have been out for about a year.

    • @orijimi
      @orijimi Pƙed 2 lety +2

      I think this video has pretty misleading information about cost and working in tight spaces because the existence of cinch clamp is completely ignored.

    • @kittysch2
      @kittysch2 Pƙed 2 lety

      Just what I was looking for. All channels requests to tap the LIKE button.
      Your presentation deserves the LIKE click!!!
      👏 best "xplainer?"

    • @tinman1955
      @tinman1955 Pƙed 2 lety +3

      I hate PEX. I find it very difficult to get a good solder joint.

    • @AZTechLabs
      @AZTechLabs Pƙed 2 lety +1

      sorry pex isn't stable long term. learn your craft first

  • @marshallferron
    @marshallferron Pƙed 3 lety +300

    I think it's worth mentioning that PEX-A is fully compatible with all the joining methods you can use on PEX-B so if you have PEX-A installed but only have access to PEX-B type fittings you can still use those for repairs.

    • @QnQoooo
      @QnQoooo Pƙed 3 lety +10

      good to know. i never knew it.

    • @1zebula1
      @1zebula1 Pƙed 3 lety +10

      I was just about to ask this question. Awesome! Cheers.

    • @kiwiswat
      @kiwiswat Pƙed 3 lety +6

      Yup, I have some Viega pex B and pureflow my plumber put in. But I am going to do few showers later and Im going with type A. Eventually I will transition those but you can still use make a transition between pex A and B with the crimp fittings. Only thing is Uponor does not warranty that joint and the warranty time on the system is lowered overall. But this is does not matter to a DYIer since their work wont be covered regardless

    • @motorbreath7174
      @motorbreath7174 Pƙed 3 lety +5

      Confusing messages beyond belief. My plumber friend told me you can also expand type B pex and use expansion fittings on that. Just bought the sharkbite tool and used the copper ring system.

    • @ilovefunnyamv2nd
      @ilovefunnyamv2nd Pƙed 3 lety +11

      @@motorbreath7174 just make sure its fully inserted, and the tube ends and even and burr free. those sharkbites are the least reliable joining method, usually because its relying on pressing against an oring and staying held in place

  • @alanleonard8739
    @alanleonard8739 Pƙed rokem +17

    Another benefit of pex-A is that pretty much all of the fittings are buriable. Pex-B requires the fancier and more expensive stainless or brass rings for burial.
    Also, folks, let your expender do its 1/8 turn prior to pushing in in for another stretch. You should see it turn each time it expands unlike in the brief example in his video.

  • @harryl7946
    @harryl7946 Pƙed 2 lety +2

    Best thing about CZcams, it never goes away! Learning never stops!!

  • @paulwarila1502
    @paulwarila1502 Pƙed rokem +2

    Very clear, cogent, and quick. Excellent job. Thank you for posting.

  • @georgedistel1203
    @georgedistel1203 Pƙed 3 lety +17

    After retiring I purchased the pex a tool , completely gutted the plumbing system on my house. 1950's 1/2" galvanized piping nightmare removed and installed 3/4" main trunk lines with 1/2" branch lines to fixtures . I haven't regretted it once in the almost 2 years since I did it. I help out friends with plumbing problems but I don't do it during the winter months. Mostly because I'm old and don't care for the cold. One friend asked me why I don't use sharkbite fittings instead and I told him because they are too expensive and they are unsightly.

  • @markrepovich2148
    @markrepovich2148 Pƙed 3 lety +21

    I have been watching these plumbing & building videos now for the last year. This by far is ONE OF THE BEST breakdown videos I have watched. FYI: Licensed Master Plumber of Kentucky. Also, use Uponor myself. Have plumbed with the other types in other states, but this system of PEX-A is the best.

    • @willplumb
      @willplumb  Pƙed 3 lety

      Thank you, Mark! More breakdown videos coming soon.

  • @theclearsounds3911
    @theclearsounds3911 Pƙed 3 lety +49

    Very good explanation, and very understandable for beginners. I just moved from a copper pipe house to a PEX house, and was lost on how to make plumbing modifications/repairs. Your video helped a lot. Plus, I appreciate the bloopers; I've just never seen them at the beginning of a video! 😁

  • @fahmywaleed
    @fahmywaleed Pƙed 2 lety +1

    Excellent video easy to follow and straight to the point without too much fluff

  • @sibco96
    @sibco96 Pƙed rokem +3

    Great video. I'm a do-it-yourself guy who uses Pex-B for home and RV repairs. I was shopping for fittings at the home improvement store and started seeing a lot of parts labeled for Pex-A only, so that led me here.

  • @Handyman247llc
    @Handyman247llc Pƙed rokem +4

    When I started doing Handyman type work I used PEX B, easier to work with than copper but the crimp tool ended the enjoyment. I listened to Roger W. and spoke about PEX A. told how much better it was and all about the pro/cons. Hmmm I had to learn more so I dove in, bought the Milwaukee tool and never looked back. PEX A is my pain repair pipe of choice
    Easy to configure around obstacles, never a mis fit that leaks, neat clean look. Happy customers.

  • @JeremyY
    @JeremyY Pƙed 2 lety +3

    Nicely edited vid with crystal clear information. You know your stuff. Thank you for putting this together!

    • @willplumb
      @willplumb  Pƙed 2 lety +1

      Glad this helped. Thanks for watching!

  • @TheRealkciRsnurB
    @TheRealkciRsnurB Pƙed rokem

    Clear, concise, informative, no BS 

    Nice video! 😉

  • @nosonfontenot3072
    @nosonfontenot3072 Pƙed 3 lety +8

    Just learning about PEX. Thank you and great vid!

  • @thelastjohnwayne
    @thelastjohnwayne Pƙed 3 lety +3

    Excellent. Very well done......After watching this I thought You guys are great at making instructional videos. Great Job.

  • @justinsandock
    @justinsandock Pƙed rokem

    Thanks for the great video. I really appreciate your break down of the differences.

  • @bobwintonyk9104
    @bobwintonyk9104 Pƙed 3 lety +82

    One thing you have not touched on when it comes to low pressure whether it be A or B pex is that pex was originally designed to be used in a home run system where individual lines are run to each fixture from the manifold thus giving constant volume and pressure.

    • @5thGenNativeTexan
      @5thGenNativeTexan Pƙed 2 lety +5

      Great point!

    • @jameso8871
      @jameso8871 Pƙed rokem +2

      But how many of the cheap guys who don't know what they're doing (I work in an area where licenses are only required in the cities) are NOT running homeruns because they're installing the cheapest system they can?

    • @invertedsavage3978
      @invertedsavage3978 Pƙed 11 měsĂ­ci +3

      Probly not by the book right but I basically made my own manifold using 3/4 inch pex and T fittings. 3/4 in 3/4 out with 1/2 inch off the side and then the third and final T is 3/4 in 1/2 out with 1/2 out the side one line running to my sink the other to my bath. So the main line is 3/4 inch with 1/2 inch line running off that to each tap. Think I can get away with that, My thinking was the 3/4 mainline to 1/2 would give me good pressure, same idea as having a 3/4 manifold with 1/2 lines. Small off grid cabin artesian well with a shit ton of water pressure feeding a kitchen sink, bathroom sink, tub and toilet.

  • @reggiekenner1527
    @reggiekenner1527 Pƙed 2 lety +21

    This is all great advice for sure.
    I had to replace virtually the entire hot water line in the attic of my rental house with PEX B. First time. Used the pinch type clamps. The half-inch PEX, using copper connectors, was smaller than the 1/2" galvanized I was replacing that went to the vanity and shower (I had to cut through a closet wall in two places to do this) but the galvanized was so badly rusted inside that I couldn't see through a one-foot piece. The water pressure after replacement was easily twice what it was before, both in the shower and in the vanity. The 3/4" galvanized line that I had to replace all the way back to the water heater was just as badly clogged. At 70 years old, I spent 5 days in that attic (fortunately, my daughter, also my tenant there, were able to be out of town for that week) but the hardest part was climbing that ladder each day. My house was built in the late 70s. The next-door neighbor was able to make use of the roll of PEX I had left over doing his water lines.
    Nice to be able to buy the PEX in red, for the hot line, and Blue, for the cold.
    My best idea was to disconnect the hot water line at the water heater outlet, use my shop vac to clear the lines of water before using the Sawzall to cut those long runs of pipe. Literally no water in any of the pipe I cut.
    Still got another shower/vanity and then all the way to the kitchen. I have no idea where those lines run down that wall.

    • @dianedomey3749
      @dianedomey3749 Pƙed rokem +2

      🎉Hi Reggie great post If I were living in your area I’d help you complete the rest of your DIY plumbing I love DIY projects 
as for locating OLD COPPER PIPES in the walls they do make an excellent tool that WILL locate all Magnetic (wires and such) AND NON MAGNETIC (copper is non magnetic) it sells for about $20-$50 depending on the Brand you buy. The Zircon brand is a decent price of about $20-$35 I’ll bet Lowes or Home Depot sells It. Yet if you 😱🎉have access to the internet i feel pricing and delivery is sooo much better like on Amazon. Now if you own a good Stud finder you can also use it to find where and if it goes thru a stud to the fixture site like to where the cabinet is. You should have it easier with the two tools and good batteries I also like PEX A due to it being able to take freezing better decreasing the chance of rupturing. Ohhhh and when it comes to the rest of your plumbing you really should look for the UTube video that talks about using a “MANIFOLD” system to set up and attach and bring each Hot and Cold PEX line NEATLY/ORGANIZED INTO A “Manifold System Set UP it’s located where the main cold water intake comes into the house at the hot water tank site (attaching It to the manifold) and to the hot water heater and from the hot water heater out to the “Manifold device” which will have each and every single cold and hot water PEX line going to each fixture/appliance water in an emergency since each PEX line will come into the Manifold having its very own shut off valve on EACH PEX LINE
      And if you have just one pex line running to each fixture no splicing needed the PEX can literally be run enormous lengths without the need to splice for added length Ive run it 30 feet I like the 1” gives better water pressure even with short lengths I don’t have to worry pressure is seats great. All Good luck and I’m looking forward to seeing a DIY video of the work you did. Oh your studs can be anywhere from 12”-16” to( 18” very rare) on center I’d look up the building code for the year it was built it should be posted. Wish you lived near me id help you I Love to do renovations and DIY projects. Ohh btw I’ve used closed cell insulation in the walls (exterior annnnnd interior) the ceilings and the ROOF not only did it make the best vapor barrier but it is amazing how it insulates the PEX and literally fills in where any and all air leaks were and made the house cheaper to heat and cool by hundred of dollars and depending on how big the house and are is I got the company to negotiate their price with me too. It’s going to cost us lots of money this winter I think. Check out the Manifold Device. I’ll bet it’s a big help for you like it’s for me feel free to email or text

    • @danielschannel701
      @danielschannel701 Pƙed rokem

      @@dianedomey3749 I've got to fix the water burst up in the attic too after the freeze in Texas.

  • @justinhildebrand1543
    @justinhildebrand1543 Pƙed 3 lety +5

    Great video, very informative, thanks for putting in the effort!

  • @claycook2723
    @claycook2723 Pƙed 3 lety

    Very good and informative video. I am a retired plumber and this is all new to me thx

  • @jerrysmith9780
    @jerrysmith9780 Pƙed 3 lety +1

    Thought I knew a fair bit on Pex but I learned a ton from this video. Great comparison and you sold me on Pex A. I also subscribed just now. Really appreciate you taking the time to share your professional views.

    • @willplumb
      @willplumb  Pƙed 3 lety

      Thanks, Jerry. Glad you found this helpful!

  • @covetthecamper2289
    @covetthecamper2289 Pƙed rokem +4

    Great video, Thanks!
    I am an RV technician and have done both A & B. I prefer PEX A as well. Really great stuff.

  • @jimbo4203
    @jimbo4203 Pƙed 2 lety +17

    Retired from the mobile home industry recently. We switched from using cpvc ( glued) to pex b 10 years ago and it was great for me. I ran the service department and was constantly chasing water leaks , from cracked, frozen pipes, bad glue joints etc. The pex was way more reliable and easier to repair when something goes wrong. Also Lowe's sells a crimping tool that works fine for about 30 bucks

    • @deadmanswife3625
      @deadmanswife3625 Pƙed 2 lety +1

      Every review I have seen says you need some serious muscles to use it

    • @SudoVII
      @SudoVII Pƙed rokem +2

      @@deadmanswife3625 go to a plumbing supply house like Ferguson and get a one handed crimp tool. You need one for each size of pex but way easier to use. Can crimp 3/4 and 1/2 with little effort as long as you’re not crimping sideways over your head.

    • @deadmanswife3625
      @deadmanswife3625 Pƙed rokem

      @@SudoVII ty

    • @jeffreyverry7151
      @jeffreyverry7151 Pƙed rokem +1

      I worked on both Million dollar homes to Mobile homes. I Hated Quest. I generally ran copper in most cases. I installed Water treatment systems and installed Well Pumps both Submersible and Jet Pumps. I also had the “Pleasure” of working on Piston Water Pumps.. I really like PEX. I generally recommend 3/4 Type B due to pressure and volume concerns with 1/2”. I prefer the SS pinch clamps because of space issues. My Most installed item locally was Water Softeners. Some areas around me can have up to 20 GPG. Which is Very Hard water..

  • @redwood_shores
    @redwood_shores Pƙed 3 lety +1

    Brilliant explanation, thanks guys.

  • @fr3qh0pp3r
    @fr3qh0pp3r Pƙed rokem

    Thanks for this video pointing out the pros and cons (as is with all life matters)! I’m helping to maintain our church Bldg that has type-B runs and fittings into a manifold. This video answered some of my questions and eased my doubts. Again thank you !

  • @ScottAllengadget
    @ScottAllengadget Pƙed 3 lety +5

    Great explanation! Thank you!!👍

    • @willplumb
      @willplumb  Pƙed 3 lety

      Gadget Allen Glad to help. Thanks for watching!

  • @rickyclark9052
    @rickyclark9052 Pƙed 3 lety +16

    A very kind helpful hint.
    Zurn firings do Not reduce pressure , but Does reduce volume.
    I think you just miss spoke , but you may want to explain and share that with watchers.
    I thought you did very well on your video.
    You did a good job of helping home owners.
    Keep up the good work.

    • @franciscomedina4248
      @franciscomedina4248 Pƙed 2 lety +1

      Thanks you I thought it was just me. I have being using pex B for yr and there no Such. Think and reducing pressure.

    • @joshuaslobodnik3942
      @joshuaslobodnik3942 Pƙed 4 měsĂ­ci +3

      Reducing volume = reducing pressure once the volume the fixture uses (shower or whatever) exceeds the volume and the connection can pass.

    • @caleblitwiller6267
      @caleblitwiller6267 Pƙed 4 měsĂ­ci +3

      They don't reduce pressure while the water is stationary, but as it starts to move, they restrict the flow, and the venturi effect creates low pressure downstream.

    • @trailerparkgarage6574
      @trailerparkgarage6574 Pƙed měsĂ­cem

      When I was younger I always thought that bigger pipe meant it could carry more pressure but it’s kinda the opposite. Yes the type b will reduce volume size for size vs type a but it’s almost more important to me to have better pressure especially in the shower.

  • @larrylancaster9131
    @larrylancaster9131 Pƙed 9 měsĂ­ci

    Much appreciated! The upsizing pex b was something that never would have occured to me! Thanks!!!

  • @craighanzi1039
    @craighanzi1039 Pƙed 2 lety

    Thank you for your information, I always run a 3/4 main trunk and 3/4 3/4 1/2 to my fixtures. Thank you for your information

  • @knuckledragger2412
    @knuckledragger2412 Pƙed 2 lety +5

    Been a plumber for 25 years and have used both.
    I've never had either system fail if installed properly and with common sense.
    Plastic fittings, I've seen those fail though. Seen tees crack and come in half a year after the install.
    Been using brass fittings ever since without issue, pex-b.
    People will argue this forever, both are good products and B is cheaper

  • @jamesanderson6812
    @jamesanderson6812 Pƙed 2 lety +4

    Very informative . I’m a diy guy and I always think I’m saving the cost of labor so I want to use the best materials. Type a is THE way to go . Cheap insurance as well as depending on your installation could save you so much frustration and anger ! Thanks for the info !

  • @billhutton9185
    @billhutton9185 Pƙed 7 měsĂ­ci

    A brilliant explanation and presentation! Thanks very much.

  • @glenncunningham67
    @glenncunningham67 Pƙed 2 lety

    just what I wanted to know and well done, simple and clear.

  • @ReusernameTaken
    @ReusernameTaken Pƙed 3 lety +4

    Quality post! Nice timing, too - the final hours are ticking down right along with our overnight lows until I go ahead and settle on how to approach slapping together a bunch of spot splicing on polybutelene in a 1980s manufactured home. Don't even get me started about the drainage end of things!
    This video is tidy and informative.

    • @willplumb
      @willplumb  Pƙed 3 lety

      Steven Thompson Thanks, Steven. Glad you saw this at the right time!

    • @timjohnson6864
      @timjohnson6864 Pƙed 3 lety +2

      dont splice it just replace it if its already splitting open it will continue

  • @sethpawlik
    @sethpawlik Pƙed rokem +6

    I watched a video by Matt Risinger and he did a burst test with pen pipe. The pex-a actually burst before the pex-b. That makes sense since the B is more Rigid.
    Don’t be afraid of the pex-b bursting.

    • @senseisecurityschool9337
      @senseisecurityschool9337 Pƙed 10 měsĂ­ci

      Both are rated for far more pressure than you're likely to get in your water supply. Like the difference between using a 1/2" bolt vs a 3/8" bolt for hanging a picture. 😂

  • @christophertflournoy7830
    @christophertflournoy7830 Pƙed 2 lety

    I’m about to plumb my house with pex- A thanks for the advice very informative thanks for the video

  • @DCS026
    @DCS026 Pƙed 3 měsĂ­ci

    Excellent video. Thank you.

  • @hotwiredpc4079
    @hotwiredpc4079 Pƙed rokem +17

    I never use copper compression rings with pex. I always use the stainless pinch ring so I don’t have to worry about alignment when clamping which is something you didn’t talk about in your video also you don’t need as big of a tool when using the stainless pinch rings so the tool can fit into tighter spaces.

    • @WindyYucca
      @WindyYucca Pƙed rokem +2

      I like the pinch ring style better also never had one leak and it's harder to mess it up.

    • @customcreations-rickkramer5357
      @customcreations-rickkramer5357 Pƙed rokem +1

      That is something I was wondering about. Which type would be better. I think Im going to go with the steel cinch rings and not the copper. Now I just have to buy the tool and maybe pick up some some basic fittings along with a bag or two of the steel bands. That way Im ready to fix that pipe at 8pm on a sat night. Most stores around here are closed by 6pm mon - sat and most are closed on sunday.

  • @robertocantu9769
    @robertocantu9769 Pƙed rokem

    Very good at explaning everything for a Do it yourself plumber 😊

  • @gerardnachtegaele1173
    @gerardnachtegaele1173 Pƙed rokem +1

    An excellent, informative video! Thanks! I now recommend Type A Plex!

  • @avidube2973
    @avidube2973 Pƙed rokem +5

    I know this is an older video and the tech has changed. PEX B (Zurn) has expansion fittings too and can use the same install tooling as PEX A in the appropriate size, although you are still required to use the right ZURN fittings. Additionally, PEXB does have some of the same pre-warming requirements as PEXA if you are using expansion fittings. Otherwise accurate. I think both are roughly equivalent in temperate climate use.

  • @josecarbajal6706
    @josecarbajal6706 Pƙed 3 lety +12

    Has no one ever thought about keeping your rings in your cost pocket. That what I’ve always done and have no issues with the ring going back in cold days.

  • @objuan6
    @objuan6 Pƙed rokem

    Thanks, just getting started, good jumping off vid.

  • @gilbertjaramillo8735
    @gilbertjaramillo8735 Pƙed 3 lety

    Super helpful information. Thanks so much.

  • @liers99
    @liers99 Pƙed 3 lety +6

    Pex A is all I’ve used and that’s what my house is plumbed with.

  • @mikeybmx5330
    @mikeybmx5330 Pƙed 3 lety +5

    It's worth mentioning the growth in length in hot water runs. Support the pipe every chance you can.

    • @businessraptor127
      @businessraptor127 Pƙed 9 měsĂ­ci

      Good point I've not seen anyone say anything about expansion and contraction so I was just going to leave a bit of slack in th lines to compensate. Thanks for the tip

  • @cundinamarca1
    @cundinamarca1 Pƙed 2 lety

    clear explanation. Thanks for educating me.

  • @jim9520
    @jim9520 Pƙed 2 lety

    Great video. Thank you for the comparison.

  • @HotZTrain
    @HotZTrain Pƙed rokem +6

    I re-plumbed my house with Pex-A. Spend the money and buy the Milwaukee expansion tool, the manual one is too much of a hassle. One disadvantage to Pex A, your fittings can't much closer than about 3". The problem... when you put the expansion tool in the pipe on the second fitting, if too close to the first, it will jam and freeze inside the first fitting. I found out the hard way.

  • @speaktru69
    @speaktru69 Pƙed 2 lety +3

    Thanks for the great info. I just had a plumber install pex A on my mobile in Maine and he ran the pipes below the underbelly. This of course needs to be fixed somehow because of freezing. Perhaps someone can answer a question on if you can use heat tape/cord on the exposed PEX A or will foam pipe insulators be enough? I can't for the life of me understand why I paid $100/hr to for this knuckle head, who came recommended and had lovely pics on facebook of his plumbing work, to get a amateur plumbing job with the easiest materials to use. He didn't even have to cut through floor joists to run pipe to the kitchen from the other end of the trailer. Thanks for any help you can offer. Cheers!

    • @rodneycox9429
      @rodneycox9429 Pƙed 2 lety

      I was wondering about heat tape as well.

  • @brianwilliamson6415
    @brianwilliamson6415 Pƙed 3 lety

    Nice video. Thx for the info and explanation!

  • @jimgolden9666
    @jimgolden9666 Pƙed 3 lety +2

    Excellent info, my man! Looking to replumb my 1987 RV with PEX and trying to learn what I can about the system (has this old gray butyl stuff now). This was really informational! :)

    • @willplumb
      @willplumb  Pƙed 3 lety

      Glad this helped you. Good luck on that project!

  • @matthewk6731
    @matthewk6731 Pƙed 2 lety +10

    Sizing is definitely an issue. We see new homes with 3/4 main runs, which may have worked with copper, but PEX is smaller on the inside diameter. The type A with full flow fittings May be OK, but the type B should Always be run with 1 inch main runs. People complain when the house is busy and doing the dishes, washing machine, and taking a shower, the pressure goes down. I've seen million dollar homes with this problem due to idiot "plumbers", and inspectors letting them install it this way.

  • @oldschoolcars3318
    @oldschoolcars3318 Pƙed 2 lety +4

    I adopted Wirsbo 25 years ago for floor heating and found it quite expensive yet effective and durable. In honesty I dont think you are giving Zurn a fully fair shake as far as flow. With direct runs from a manifold with a 3/4" inlet, I have ZERO problems plumbing 1/2' home runs from each fixture to the manifold. Short of some sort of massive 5GPM use, Zurn home runs do fine. the only branches I really use in a system are a toilet from a bath sink, and a dishwasher from a kitchen sink. Where DIYers and some plumbers run into flow problems with Zurn fittings, is when they branch multiple fixtures from the same line or trunk. By using home runs to a manifold you use more tubing with Zurn which is OK because it is cheaper per foot. At the same time, with home runs of modest length to a well fed manifold you save on fittings. In my view, there are only two drawbacks in using the Zurn System: the close quarters problem you mentioned with the tool, and inconsistency in Zurn Pex ring quality.

  • @derrick_builds
    @derrick_builds Pƙed 3 lety +1

    Thanks man. Need to learn more about my home's pex system.

  • @tomfrantz
    @tomfrantz Pƙed rokem

    Brilliant point about "Flow". I use uponor A for a geothermal sometimes. Using expandapex fittings.for better flow.

  • @Youtubehandle.
    @Youtubehandle. Pƙed 3 lety +5

    When you said at the end of the video, size your system correctly, were you saying run three-quarter inch pipe off of half-inch copper so you have enough water flow? That is when using packs be

  • @tjcole12
    @tjcole12 Pƙed 3 lety +5

    PEX-A, if its cold, we just put our hands over it to make it shrink faster.

  • @JamesWilliams-vz1ff
    @JamesWilliams-vz1ff Pƙed 3 měsĂ­ci

    Great demonstration.

  • @g-asplendidsavage1700
    @g-asplendidsavage1700 Pƙed rokem

    Great video answers a lot of questions👍

  • @mlgoldberg
    @mlgoldberg Pƙed 3 lety +5

    I re-piped my attic with type b pex. I was able to get a cinch crimper off eBay for less than $20. Rings and fittings were available at the local big box store cheap.
    It has worked well for me for the last 10+ years, no problems for a one time job.
    I am in South Texas, so the cold was not an issue.
    $250+ for tools for one job is excessive in my view.
    For a pro who will use the tool for years, the cost of the tools is secondary to best productivity.
    They both seem to be good systems.

    • @dknowles60
      @dknowles60 Pƙed 3 lety

      could have had the tools for 80 dollars

  • @w.miller7282
    @w.miller7282 Pƙed 3 lety +4

    I prefer type b crimp fittings, I trust a mechanical crimp more than the memory contraction on type a. My new house was built with type a so we will see how long it lasts.

  • @shridigitalllc3791
    @shridigitalllc3791 Pƙed 2 lety

    I’m going to learn from you! Thank you. Very good explanation,

  • @mikeherbst1825
    @mikeherbst1825 Pƙed 2 lety +2

    Getting ready to replumb my mobile home with pex. Thanks for the recommendations on material & tooling needed. A friend of mine has left over material, fittings & the tools to install type A. Jackpot!!
    Very informative video, thanks a bunch!
    (Subscribed)

    • @ktanner11
      @ktanner11 Pƙed 2 lety +1

      I have owned a few mobiles, all in northern Michigan. If you live in a very cold climate with a home just set on blocks i suggest running most of the lines through the heat ducts. It sounds dumb probably not to code 😆 but i stopped having frozen lines

    • @azmike1956
      @azmike1956 Pƙed 2 lety

      @@ktanner11 thanks for the tip but I'm in AZ. Just a few nights below freezing.

  • @wurlabyscott
    @wurlabyscott Pƙed 3 lety +8

    Matt Risinger tested PEX A and B and A burst first and what kind of leaching between A and B?

  • @curtisbme
    @curtisbme Pƙed 3 lety +3

    Good summary. My house was done with Rehau 20 years ago when they were doing the 2080 connectors vs. their current mix between a 2080 and a Uponor connector. Never had any issues with water hammer like copper folks can and the only problem we've had with freezing is because the building used copper for the final bib stub out.
    The single thing I hate about it is that for the rare/extremely infrequent small job, I can't do it myself and I have to pay a plumber a ton just to come out for a 10 min job because the tools are even more expensive. I'll be using crimps and lengths of pex a for an upcoming bit of bathroom work simply because I don't have another reasonable option for small, quick jobs. If the box box (or anyone) would rent the tools it would be great, as the tools they rent now are perfect for the one-off job that doesn't make sense to buy a tool for, but sadly non that I can find in my area do.

    • @alexanderSydneyOz
      @alexanderSydneyOz Pƙed rokem

      I would have thought the money you save on a single plumber visit would pay for the tools you need! Which is really just the crimp tool and pipe shears.

    • @curtisbme
      @curtisbme Pƙed rokem

      @@alexanderSydneyOz Issue I was trying to state is that if wanted to use Pex A and Rehau or Uphonor I have to pay for a plumber. I can't get those tools or parts without paying potentially thousands, which makes a one-off plumber visit cheaper.
      So I was forced to switch to Pex B and crimp connections as those parts and tools are muuuuch cheaper than a plumber visit.

  • @bentleyjim1
    @bentleyjim1 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    this video was awesome, It helped me make the decisions to move my project forward. Additionally, Labor is ALWAYS the biggest cost; the relatively small saving for smaller or cheaper systems is never the right answer.

  • @commercialelectrician133
    @commercialelectrician133 Pƙed 2 lety

    Great video planning to change my line from the water meter to the house

  • @mrmike6996
    @mrmike6996 Pƙed 3 lety +14

    I believe that Zurn also makes expansion fittings for pex-b pipe so that can be done the exact same as pex-a. I also believe that per-b as a higher burst pressure

    • @terrystearns1196
      @terrystearns1196 Pƙed 2 lety +1

      Look it up it does not have a greater burst pressure...

  • @tedfritsch3340
    @tedfritsch3340 Pƙed 3 lety +6

    Great info. The Pex A isn't that much more expensive.

    • @STARDRIVE
      @STARDRIVE Pƙed 3 lety +2

      Especially when considering the necessary upsizing to get the same flow rate.

    • @BKD70
      @BKD70 Pƙed 2 lety +1

      @@STARDRIVE And the more expensive fittings for Pex B. Pex A all the way. And don't waste your money on the battery powered expansion tools, the manual tool works just fine at 1/3 the cost. Especially for a homeowner repiping his own house.

  • @johnhathorn7327
    @johnhathorn7327 Pƙed 2 lety

    Useful information, thanks!

  • @scottyb83
    @scottyb83 Pƙed 2 lety +1

    Thank you. I have Type A PEX and need to do a modification. Only bad thing with Type A as a diy'er is the more specialized tools needed.

  • @badwagon7799
    @badwagon7799 Pƙed 3 lety +14

    Pex A is also known for leaching more chemicals especially when exposed to chlorine which is in all city water. Chlorine also makes type A brittle over time so unless you spend even more for a very efficient water purifying system, all those tight connections won't matter. Pex A also has a bad rap for a stronger plastic taste. Overall the type b with the crimp fittings still out performs copper and will be more than most households will ever need. Choose the correct size and flow rates and pressure are not a problem. I went with B and have been very happy.

    • @garycasper2929
      @garycasper2929 Pƙed rokem

      I was just going to type that too. If one likes cancer then go with Pex-A..
      Sure it’s easier to work with but, sure wouldn’t want to be drinking from those pipes.
      Also, never leave PEX pipe exposed to sun light and never let it be exposed to fluorescent light. So, make sure it’s wrapped in foam insulation if it’s in a basement setting that’s exposed to that kind of lighting.

    • @motube2389
      @motube2389 Pƙed rokem +2

      You pretty much destroyed the guy and I kind of feel bad for him

  • @jwblount7802
    @jwblount7802 Pƙed 3 lety +20

    If the house is plumbed accordingly with crimp fittings to what the code states. Like 3/4 piping to number of fixture ratio the water pressure is not reduced. If the pressure is less than the plumber/dyi er did not follow the pipe to fixture ratio. Increasing pipe size will not make a difference. Most of the restrictions comes from all of the water savers that are within the fixture. Show a house that is plumbed according both way's and show me that one is better than the other using the correct sizing to fixture ratio.

    • @plumbbuild6517
      @plumbbuild6517 Pƙed 3 lety +2

      It's really just a selling point, because the supply lines are smaller than the reduction of the fittings. So you are correct

    • @MattyDemello
      @MattyDemello Pƙed 3 lety

      My house has half inch copper pipes. I'm in the middle of changing it all to 3/4" all the way up until the fixtures. Will upgrading the size to 3/4 give better flow?? I hope so. All though it goes back down to half inch for each fixture

    • @plumbbuild6517
      @plumbbuild6517 Pƙed 3 lety +2

      @@MattyDemello you should be able to get around 12 to 15 GPM out of 1/2 inch copper pipe, and around 22 to 25 GPM out of 3/4 copper pipe ,alittle less out of PEX , but your faucets or shower can't handle that much water flow.

    • @jwblount7802
      @jwblount7802 Pƙed 3 lety +1

      @@MattyDemello According to code the most you can run is up to 4 fixtures per 3/4 inch line. So if you run a 3/4" line across the house you can branch off to every bath or kitchen or whatever with 1/2 as long as it does not exceed the fixture load per 3/4 " line, if the fixture load exceeds that then you would run 3/4" to the first drop or branch of the bath or whatever you going to then down 1/2". I plumb this with pex, cpvc, and even copper when it was cheaper back then and it all has the same pressure and or volume for each product. Like I mentioned before if you follow the 3/4" per fixture load no problem.

    • @plumbbuild6517
      @plumbbuild6517 Pƙed 3 lety +2

      @@jwblount7802 it depends on how long of run you have by code 1/2 inch line 40 ft or less can carry 4 fixtures I wouldn't recommend it , but a 3/4 line can carry 12 fixtures up to 100 ft by code. Some inspectors will let you get away with more.

  • @paulsantos5625
    @paulsantos5625 Pƙed 2 měsĂ­ci

    Thank you, this was a great video professionally made, and it gave me a lot to think about, I am building a pretty sizable workshop 60 x 40 with three separate rooms, two bathrooms, a kitchen in one of the rooms, and I am considering using pex and I was on the fence about which one to use, you have clearly made pex a winner thank you

  • @dhurban
    @dhurban Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci

    Very informative...thanks!

  • @davidswanson5669
    @davidswanson5669 Pƙed 2 lety +5

    I wish the 90 degree had a more gradual bend, because I’m sure that also contributes to the loss in pressure, or flow rate.

  • @rossfudd256
    @rossfudd256 Pƙed 2 lety +11

    Types of PEX tubing (A, B, C).
    Choosing the right type and brand for your project.
    -What are the differences between common PEX brands?
    -Is one brand better than the other?
    -Which type of PEX should I use for my project?
    Classification of PEX by manufacturing process
    Regardless of brand, there are only (3) main manufacturing processes used to produce PEX tubing:
    -Peroxide method (used to make PEX-A tubing)
    -Silane method (for PEX-B tubing)
    -Irradiation method (for PEX-C)
    Contrary to the popular belief, A, B and C are not grades of PEX. These letters are used merely to identify the manufacturing process and have nothing to do with quality or performance ratings of the end product except as explained further in text.
    In fact, all of the above have to adhere to the same standard:
    -Pressure and temperature ratings
    -Minimum bending radius
    -Pipe wall thickness and ID/OD dimensions (subject to manufacturing tolerances)

  • @bduff5004
    @bduff5004 Pƙed 2 lety

    Great video. Thank you

  • @deadmanswife3625
    @deadmanswife3625 Pƙed 2 lety

    Great demonstration about the expander in about using the heat gun to speed up the contraction thank you

  • @JH-tc3yu
    @JH-tc3yu Pƙed 2 lety +9

    The thing I have never understood about these types of videos is talking about the size restriction for Pex type B fittings. Why are you using fittings? The whole point of PEX is that you slap a 90 degree bender on the pex and create a smooth radius turn with 0 fittings.

    • @DSkimRS
      @DSkimRS Pƙed rokem +1

      thats not the "whole point of PEX" đŸ€Ą

    • @djaa7
      @djaa7 Pƙed rokem

      So you never use elbows, tees, couplings, valves, and anything else? You simply have pipes connected to nothing, going nowhere?
      "Tell me you are not a plumber and have no clue, without telling me you are not..."

  • @kevinpoore5626
    @kevinpoore5626 Pƙed 3 lety +3

    Well I install PEX B from Home Depot but she is a SharkBite product but the biggest reason why I install it it's because there's no cash value other than in the brass fittings it's theft proof pretty much

    • @robertcompton6281
      @robertcompton6281 Pƙed 3 lety

      and the new plastic fitting work well on all of my rental installs

    • @djaa7
      @djaa7 Pƙed rokem +1

      My truck was broken into and 3 rolls of pex taken. Can you please call the bad guys and give them the memo. They didn't get it

  • @fifthamendment1
    @fifthamendment1 Pƙed rokem

    Thank you so much for this information

  • @Mhdogman
    @Mhdogman Pƙed rokem

    Very informative. Much appreciation. Smiles

  • @andrewbeach1685
    @andrewbeach1685 Pƙed 3 lety +4

    It's my understanding that there are expansion fittings for Type B Zurn and also tool heads for the Mliwaukee expansion tool. I also heard on another video here that if you are doing recirculating systems (especially hot water) you will want type B as type A pex will erode from the inside because of the chemicals inside water. Not sure how big a deal that is, but hey, here's the video czcams.com/video/tJI-E6y2DuU/video.html

    • @bertveldhuizen8699
      @bertveldhuizen8699 Pƙed 2 lety +1

      For recirculating systems like hydronic heat you use the Orange PEX.

  • @willplumb
    @willplumb  Pƙed 3 lety +8

    What's your preference? PEX A or PEX B?

    • @dallasmavs1924
      @dallasmavs1924 Pƙed 3 lety

      How do u know what type of pex do u have

    • @aaronblake1891
      @aaronblake1891 Pƙed 3 lety +2

      Your expander head wasn’t spinning

    • @EslamG84
      @EslamG84 Pƙed 3 lety

      Copper!

    • @frankgorgone6679
      @frankgorgone6679 Pƙed 3 lety

      I prefer pex a but no one around here carry’s it. I have to order it in large quantities so I can use it on my jobs

    • @Appytail
      @Appytail Pƙed 3 lety +3

      Time to erase that video and start from scratch. What makes a PEX expandable is ASTM F1960. AND NOT "A" or "B". There are PEX B available that are F1960. So most of your video is oudated and should be replaced. Because you pros and cons are almost all false.

  • @MeltinMetalAnthony
    @MeltinMetalAnthony Pƙed rokem

    Great video man! I’m in Ennis this helped greatly

  • @rontiemens2553
    @rontiemens2553 Pƙed 3 lety +1

    Excellent, excellent, EXCELLENT. I came here with a bias toward PEX type B, but now I think you have made a compelling case for type A, and I will seriously look into that further. Subscribed! THANK YOU!!!

    • @willplumb
      @willplumb  Pƙed 3 lety

      So glad you found this helpful! And thanks for subscribing - we’ve got more videos coming soon.

  • @jesseweaver8899
    @jesseweaver8899 Pƙed 3 lety +3

    The zurn pex I've seen lately is actually rated for 1960 (expansion) fittings. As is Sioux chief Power pex .. both of these are not pex a .. just sayin

  • @erich9925
    @erich9925 Pƙed 3 lety +3

    pipe b will be more available to you the homeowner.

    • @lehmaj
      @lehmaj Pƙed 3 lety

      This is definitely true. I recently started a remodel in my basement bathroom and the old coper was a mess so ripped it out and bought the Milwaukee expansion tool after doing my research a few months back. Then come to find my home depot in my area doesn't carry Pex A. Luckily for me we have a plumbing supply store and they carried everything I needed for Pex A

  • @shopcatt643
    @shopcatt643 Pƙed 3 lety

    Great video! Thanks brother

  • @tlook6900
    @tlook6900 Pƙed měsĂ­cem

    Thanks! We’re ‘pex-folks’ and are exploring transitioning to be more a than b- your video is great- we’re not as cold as you are-(UT) and have been to worry about the temperature issues.
    We already have the expansion tool 😊
    Now we’re finding the fittings at supply houses are not comparable ($) to your chart.
    We’re convinced but need cost effective supply. (We’re a husband/wife team w/40+ years experience)
    Thanks for your comparison!
    You’re fun and informative 😊

  • @erich9925
    @erich9925 Pƙed 3 lety +3

    your fixtures reduce to3/8 anyway

  • @meseahunt
    @meseahunt Pƙed rokem

    my new learned info for the day, thanks

  • @justingreen4450
    @justingreen4450 Pƙed rokem

    The old house I bought is solid and has type A PEX. The line to the shower, and bathroom sink freezes because it is ran through a short section of exterior wall. I'm going to run it under the house. Thanks so much for the video. Good job.

  • @timlovejoy7616
    @timlovejoy7616 Pƙed 3 lety +1

    I learned a lot from this video. Great job Sir.

    • @willplumb
      @willplumb  Pƙed 3 lety

      Great to hear! More videos on PEX coming soon.

  • @roberthillyer2888
    @roberthillyer2888 Pƙed 2 lety

    Very very through, really helped me in my decision. Thanks

  • @davehillyer4510
    @davehillyer4510 Pƙed 3 lety +1

    Excellent information for a DIY person like myself.

  • @1dd434
    @1dd434 Pƙed rokem

    excellent explained, great video,

  • @JeffNolan
    @JeffNolan Pƙed 8 měsĂ­ci

    this is very helpful. Thank you