Can SharkBite PEX be used underground?
It’s time to set the record straight: Yes, SharkBite brass push fittings can be used underground.
Can PEX fittings be used underground?
Some plumbing contractors may be surprised to know that PEX is approved for use in underground as well as in-slab applications. Installing PEX pipe in the slab or underground can help reduce costs because there are no hangers required and less ladder time for installers (adding to installation efficiencies).
How long will SharkBite fittings last underground?
25 year
As you may already know, our SharkBite fittings are made of brass, which is susceptible to corrosion when exposed to severe ground conditions. Any underground application of SharkBite fittings must be wrapped in order to maintain the 25 year warranty.
Is SharkBite rated for underground?
Fact: SharkBite fittings are IAPMO tested and approved for behind-the-wall and underground applications.
Do professional plumbers use SharkBite fittings?
When and when not to use SharkBite fittings Most professional plumbers believe that SharkBite fittings and other kinds of push-fit fittings should only be used as an emergency, temporary fix, and not for any enclosed or permanent plumbing system. However, there is a growing selection of DIYers who would disagree.
How long do SharkBite fittings last on copper?
How long do SharkBite fittings last? SharkBite fittings last a long time. In fact, SharkBite warrants the fittings for 25 years when used with SharkBite tubing.
How long will PEX last underground?
PEX has a life expectancy of 40-50 years, made possible by its durable and non-corrosive materials. Burial also reduces sun exposure, which would otherwise degrade the piping. Additionally, PEX tubing materials allow for expansion, making them resistant to freezing/cracking underground.
Can I use SharkBite on copper?
SharkBite brass push-to-connect fittings are compatible with PEX, Copper, CPVC, PE-RT and HDPE pipe. SharkBite fittings come with a PEX stiffener pre-loaded into the fitting for PEX, PE-RT and HDPE. The PEX stiffener does not need to be removed for Copper or CPVC applications.
Why you shouldn’t use SharkBite fittings?
A SharkBite fitting contains a rubber O-ring, which is not best for permanent connections. We don’t recommend using a SharkBite fitting outside because sunlight can dry out the rubber O-ring and cause it to crack or split.
Do shark bites ever leak?
SharkBite fittings can leak due to one of these reasons: The pipe was not properly deburred prior to installation. The pipe has scratches or debris on the outside that is preventing the O-ring from getting a watertight seal.
What are the pros and cons of PEX tubing?
There are also a few advantages of using PEX pipe for your plumbing. These cons include that it cannot be used outside and that leaving the pipes outside for too long can cause damage. PEX plumbing cannot be recycled, and because it provides an impermeable membrane, there is the possibility, though it’s small, that your water can be contaminated.
Is PEX plastic tubing better than copper?
PEX doesn’t degrade like copper, higher PSI rating freezing pipes will still burst, but PEX will be able to handle more freezing water than copper. PEX Tubing is much more resistant to freeze-breakage than copper or rigid plastic pipe. PEX Tubing is cheaper because it takes much less labor to install.
Does Sharkbite work on PEX?
SharkBites are rated for CPVC and copper. These fittings work great with copper, whereas, some other push-to-connect fittings work better with plastic connections. SharkBite fittings also work with PEX tubing.
Is Sharkbite plumbing reliable?
SharkBite’s end-to-end solution provides a reliable, single-source plumbing system that enables installers to plumb an entire potable water pipe installation from meter to fixture without needing special tools, improving efficiency and reducing the risk of potential leaks from installation errors.
