As we head into the colder months, a lot of attention is given to our pipes and the potential for freezing. Historically, copper has been the most popular choice for water lines, but newer technology like PEX is quickly becoming more commonplace. In fact, it’s already found in many homes and businesses as a more affordable alternative to copper. We here at Monkey Wrench Plumbing know that this type of pipe has some major benefits that make it worth considering if you’re looking to upgrade or replace your home plumbing system.
For one, PEX is more resistant to freezing than metal pipes are because it’s made from a flexible material that’s designed to expand as the water inside freezes. This reduces the risk of cracked or burst pipes and the associated leaks. Another advantage of PEX is that it’s safer to work with than copper because it doesn’t require a torch or messy glue to connect.
Plus, PEX connections are made using push-fit fittings that “grab” the end of the pipe when inserted (view on Amazon). These are quick to install and don’t require any special tools. The only drawback of this connection method is that it’s important to work with PEX while it’s warm—if not, you run the risk of damaging the pipe. You can warm up the pipe and/or the push-fit connectors by holding them in a hand warmer, leaving them in a hot vehicle or even putting them in a thermos of warm water. pex water pipe