Do I Need To Deburr Pex | Is Sharkbite Deburring Tool Necessary?

You don’t need a special tool to connect SharkBite fittings. However, the SharkBite Deburr & Gauge Tool is recommended for deburring and measuring the depth of the pipe. Why? Because your pipes need to be cut square, deburred, and free of debris before you install them.

Here’s why deburring is so important:

Deburring removes sharp edges: When you cut a pipe, you create a burr—a sharp, raised edge. These burrs can damage the SharkBite fitting’s o-ring and prevent a proper seal.
Deburring ensures a smooth connection: A smooth, clean pipe end ensures a smooth, secure fit with the SharkBite fitting. This helps prevent leaks and makes installation easier.
Deburring prevents clogging: Debris and burrs can easily get caught in the fitting’s internal mechanism, leading to clogging and leaks.

While you can technically deburr a pipe with a utility knife or a file, a dedicated deburring tool offers a few advantages:

Ease of Use: A deburring tool is specifically designed for this task, making it much quicker and easier than using other tools.
Accuracy: A deburring tool helps you create a clean, consistent deburr every time.
Safety: A deburring tool is safer to use than a utility knife or file, reducing the risk of cuts or injuries.

The SharkBite Deburr & Gauge Tool also includes a handy depth gauge. This helps you ensure your pipe is cut to the correct depth for the SharkBite fitting you’re using, further minimizing the risk of leaks.

In short, while it’s not absolutely necessary, using a SharkBite Deburr & Gauge Tool makes the installation process safer, easier, and more likely to result in a leak-free connection. It’s a small investment that can save you a lot of headaches down the road.

Okay, let’s talk about PEX piping and what to avoid when using it.

PEX piping shouldn’t be used in high-temperature applications or exposed to direct sunlight for long periods. This is because the heat can cause the material to break down, leading to leaks. Think of it like leaving a plastic water bottle in a hot car – it can warp and crack. You wouldn’t want that happening to your plumbing!

Now, let’s break down why PEX needs protection from the sun. The UV rays in sunlight can degrade the PEX material. This degradation weakens the pipe, making it more susceptible to cracks and leaks. Over time, the degradation can become so severe that the pipe needs to be replaced. It’s kind of like leaving a rubber band in the sun – it gets brittle and snaps.

For outdoor plumbing, you want to ensure your PEX pipes are shielded from the sun’s harsh rays. This can be done using a variety of methods. One option is to bury the pipes underground. Another option is to use a protective covering like a sleeve or conduit. There are also PEX pipes that are specially formulated to withstand UV exposure, but these are generally more expensive.

Remember, protecting your PEX pipes from heat and sunlight will extend their lifespan and help prevent costly repairs down the road.

You’re good to go! PEX plumbing does not need to be grounded.

This is because PEX is a non-metallic material, and it doesn’t conduct electricity like copper pipes do. Because of this, it’s not susceptible to electrical currents or ground faults.

Now, you might be wondering, why is grounding important in plumbing? Well, it’s a safety measure designed to protect against electric shocks. If a live wire comes into contact with a metal pipe, grounding provides a path for the electricity to flow to the ground, preventing an electric shock. Since PEX doesn’t conduct electricity, it doesn’t need this safety feature.

It’s important to note that grounding is still crucial for other parts of your plumbing system, like your water heater and any metal pipes that might be in contact with electrical wiring. These components should be properly grounded to ensure your safety.

Deburring is a crucial step in working with PEX pipes, and it’s not something you want to skip! While you might not always see sharp edges, they can cause leaks and poor fittings. This is because those tiny burrs prevent a tight seal from forming.

Imagine this: You’re trying to connect two pieces of pipe, but there’s a tiny, sharp burr sticking out. When you tighten the fitting, that burr can actually cut into the seal, creating a weak spot where water can leak out.

Think of it like trying to put a bandaid on a cut, but there’s a tiny splinter still embedded in the skin. The bandaid might stick, but it won’t be a strong, secure bandage because the splinter is in the way.

Now, deburring doesn’t take much time or effort, and it can save you a lot of trouble down the road. It’s all about taking a few extra seconds to create a clean, smooth surface for a tight seal.

Here are a few ways to deburr PEX pipes:

Deburring tool: This is the most common method. These tools are specifically designed to remove burrs from PEX pipes, and they’re very affordable.
Utility knife: If you don’t have a deburring tool, you can use a sharp utility knife to carefully remove any burrs. Just be sure to use a light touch so you don’t damage the pipe.
Sandpaper: Rough sandpaper can also be used to smooth out burrs. However, make sure to use fine-grit sandpaper to avoid damaging the pipe.

Deburring is a simple step that can make a big difference in the quality and reliability of your PEX plumbing system. It’s a small investment of time that can save you a lot of headaches in the long run. So, always take the time to deburr your PEX pipes, and you’ll be glad you did!

You might hear plumbers say not to use SharkBite fittings in certain situations, and there’s a good reason for that. While SharkBite fittings are convenient and easy to install, they’re not always the best choice for every plumbing project.

One concern is their use underground or behind walls. In these situations, the fitting becomes inaccessible, making it difficult to detect any leaks that might occur. Imagine a SharkBite fitting starting to leak behind your wall – you wouldn’t know until it was too late, causing potential water damage.

Another reason is the SharkBite fitting’s reliance on a rubber O-ring for its seal. While this design makes for quick and easy installation, some plumbers prefer more permanent connections, especially for critical applications. Over time, the rubber O-ring can deteriorate, potentially leading to leaks.

To understand why this is an issue, let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of using SharkBite fittings in these hidden locations:

Pros:

Ease of Installation:SharkBite fittings are known for their simple installation process, requiring no special tools or expertise. You simply push the pipe into the fitting, and it’s ready to go. This makes them a great option for DIY projects or situations where you need a quick and easy fix.
Versatility:SharkBite fittings are compatible with various materials like copper, PVC, and PEX, making them versatile for different plumbing applications.

Cons:

Leak Potential: While SharkBite fittings are generally reliable, there’s a higher potential for leaks compared to other methods like soldering or using compression fittings. This is because the seal relies on a rubber O-ring, which can deteriorate over time or become damaged due to extreme temperature fluctuations or pressure changes.
Limited Accessibility: When installed in inaccessible locations like behind walls or underground, SharkBite fittings can be challenging to inspect or repair in the event of a leak. This can lead to more significant water damage if a leak isn’t caught early.

Alternatives:

If you’re concerned about the potential risks of using SharkBite fittings in hidden locations, several other options are available:

Soldering: This method involves using heat to melt solder, creating a permanent and strong connection between pipes. However, it requires specialized equipment and knowledge, making it less suitable for DIY projects.
Compression Fittings: Compression fittings use a ring that clamps around the pipe, creating a secure seal. They offer greater flexibility and can be used with different materials. However, they may require more tools and expertise than SharkBite fittings.
PEX Fittings: PEX fittings are commonly used for plumbing and require a crimping tool for installation. They offer a secure and reliable connection, but like soldering, they require specialized equipment.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use SharkBite fittings for hidden installations comes down to a balance of convenience, cost, and risk. While they offer convenience and ease of installation, their potential for leaks and limited accessibility warrant careful consideration, especially in situations where leaks could cause significant damage.

You might be wondering why plumbers don’t use PEX pipes more often. Well, it’s true that PEX pipes are susceptible to damage from exposure to UV rays. That means prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause the PEX to become brittle and weak over time. This is a concern for outdoor plumbing applications.

However, that doesn’t mean PEX is a bad choice. There are ways to mitigate this issue. PEX pipes can be protected from UV rays by covering them with insulation or burying them underground. It’s also important to choose PEX pipes that are specifically designed for outdoor use.

Another concern with PEX pipes is that they can react with certain chemicals in the water. This could lead to leaching of harmful substances into your water supply. Again, this is a potential problem, but it’s not a reason to completely avoid PEX. The key is to choose PEX pipes that are certified by a reputable organization. These certifications ensure that the PEX pipes are safe for use with drinking water and that they won’t leach harmful chemicals.

It’s important to remember that PEX pipes are a relatively new technology, and there is still some ongoing research about their long-term performance and safety. However, PEX pipes have gained significant popularity in recent years, and they are considered a viable option for many plumbing applications. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of PEX pipes and choose the best material for your specific needs.

PEX is not banned in California. While there were concerns about its safety, PEX is still widely used for plumbing in the state. The California Plumbing Code (CPC) does have specific regulations for PEX pipe installation and use, to ensure its safety and proper functionality.

The issue of PEX producing toxic smoke when burned in building fires is a valid concern. However, it’s important to remember that all materials produce smoke and fumes when burned, and the safety of a building during a fire depends on many factors, including the overall fire safety design and fire suppression systems. The focus in California is on ensuring PEX pipe meets specific fire safety requirements and is installed correctly, so it doesn’t contribute to the spread of fire.

The CPC was revised in 2019 to address the issue of PEX and fire safety. The revision included stricter requirements for the types of PEX pipe allowed for use in California, with an emphasis on fire-retardant qualities. These revisions were based on extensive research and testing to ensure the safety and performance of PEX plumbing systems in the event of a fire.

It’s crucial to understand that the California government and building codes aim to ensure the safety of its residents. The focus is on implementing standards and regulations that minimize risks, regardless of the specific material used. The CPC’s approach to PEX is a good example of this, demonstrating the proactive measures taken to ensure public safety, even if it involves rigorous testing and review of materials like PEX.

In the late 1990s, some PEX piping systems used yellow brass fittings. These fittings, under specific conditions, could dezincify and fail prematurely. This led to several class-action lawsuits and settlements.

Let’s unpack what happened and why it was a big deal.

PEX stands for cross-linked polyethylene, a type of plastic plumbing pipe that’s become incredibly popular. It’s flexible, durable, and relatively inexpensive. But PEX wasn’t always the star of the plumbing world. Back in the day, copper was the go-to material for pipes. Copper was reliable and long-lasting, but it was also more expensive than PEX. So when PEX came along, it was a game-changer.

However, the early PEX systems weren’t perfect. Some manufacturers used yellow brass for the fittings that connect the PEX pipes. Yellow brass is an alloy that contains zinc. Under certain conditions, zinc can be leached out of yellow brass, a process called dezincification. This weakens the fitting, making it more susceptible to leaks and failures.

Imagine this: you’ve got your shiny new PEX plumbing system installed, everything’s working great, and then bam! One of the fittings suddenly fails. Water starts pouring out, causing damage to your home and belongings. This was the nightmare scenario that played out for many homeowners.

The dezincification issue was mainly caused by the use of yellow brass fittings in PEX systems. The problem was that yellow brass was not always the best choice for plumbing applications. Red brass, another brass alloy, has a higher copper content and is more resistant to dezincification. So, manufacturers switched to red brass fittings, and the PEX controversy gradually died down.

The PEX controversy, though, was a major wake-up call for the plumbing industry. It highlighted the importance of using high-quality materials and proper installation techniques to ensure the longevity and reliability of plumbing systems. Today, PEX is a widely accepted and trusted plumbing material, but the lessons learned from the early days still resonate.

Deburring PEX pipes is a simple process that helps ensure a smooth and leak-free connection. Deburring means removing sharp edges from the inside and outside of your freshly cut pipes. You can easily deburr PEX pipes using a deburring tool, which you can find at most hardware stores.

To deburr, simply slide the deburring tool along the edge of your piping at an angle. This will scrape away any burrs or debris that might be present.

Why is deburring important?

You might be wondering why deburring is necessary. Here’s the deal:

Prevents leaks: Burrs can cause leaks by creating rough edges that can damage the pipe’s seal or cause the fitting to slip.
Improves flow: Burrs can restrict the flow of water through the pipe, affecting the efficiency of your plumbing system.
Protects the pipe: Sharp burrs can damage the pipe’s inner lining, leading to corrosion and premature failure.
Improves longevity: Removing burrs makes your plumbing system more robust and increases its lifespan.

Deburring is a simple step, but it plays a crucial role in ensuring the quality and performance of your PEX piping system.

Cutting PEX pipe is easy and doesn’t require a lot of tools. You’ll only need a pipe cutter and a deburring tool.

The pipe cutter will make clean, straight cuts without needing much force. A deburring tool will remove the rough edges left behind by the pipe cutter, making it easier to connect fittings.

Let’s break down how to use a pipe cutter for clean, precise cuts:

1. Choose the right size pipe cutter: Make sure the pipe cutter is designed for the size of PEX pipe you’re working with.
2. Position the cutter: Place the pipe cutter on the PEX pipe where you want to make the cut. The blades should be positioned directly over the pipe.
3. Tighten the handle: Slowly tighten the handle of the pipe cutter until the blades grip the PEX pipe securely.
4. Rotate the cutter: Rotate the pipe cutter around the PEX pipe, applying gentle pressure. Continue rotating until the PEX pipe is completely cut.
5. Deburr the pipe: Once the pipe is cut, use a deburring tool to remove any rough edges left by the cutting blades. This will prevent leaks and make it easier to connect fittings.

Here are some extra tips to make your cuts even better:

* Use a cutting guide: To ensure perfectly straight cuts, use a cutting guide. You can find these online or at hardware stores.
* Cut slowly and evenly: Don’t rush the cutting process. Take your time and make sure the blades are rotating evenly.
* Replace dull blades: Dull blades can make uneven cuts and damage your PEX pipe. Replace them as needed.

Cutting PEX pipe is simple and doesn’t require any special skills. Just follow these steps and you’ll be able to make clean, professional cuts.

Let’s talk about using SharkBite PEX pipe for your plumbing projects. It’s a great choice for hot and cold water distribution, but it’s important to follow some guidelines to ensure a successful installation.

First, always keep your hot and cold lines separate. This helps prevent mixing of water temperatures and ensures proper functionality of your plumbing system.

Next, only use fittings and accessories that are specifically designed for the SharkBite PEX connection system. This is crucial for ensuring a secure and leak-proof connection.

And finally, always leave a bit of extra pipe at both ends of your runs. This makes connecting to fixtures and other components much easier and less stressful.

Why use SharkBite PEX pipe?

One of the biggest benefits of SharkBite PEX is its ease of installation. You don’t need specialized tools or a lot of experience to work with it. The push-to-connect fittings make installation quick and simple, and the pipe itself is flexible and easy to maneuver.

Another advantage is the durability of PEX pipe. It’s resistant to corrosion, scaling, and other forms of damage that can plague traditional copper pipes. This means your plumbing system will last longer and require less maintenance.

PEX is also a very efficient option. Because it’s so flexible, you can use fewer fittings and bends in your plumbing runs, which reduces the potential for leaks and pressure loss.

However, it’s important to remember that SharkBite PEX is not suitable for all applications. It should not be used for gas lines, potable water supply, or under-slab plumbing. It’s also important to consult the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure that SharkBite PEX is appropriate for your specific project and local building codes.

While PEX pipe is incredibly versatile and offers numerous advantages, it’s not a magic solution for every plumbing problem. If you’re considering using PEX to fix a leaking copper pipe, a leaky faucet, or any other plumbing issue, it’s always a good idea to consult a professional plumber or faucet repair specialist first. They can assess the situation thoroughly, identify the root cause of the problem, and recommend the most effective and long-lasting solution.

Think of it this way: PEX is a fantastic tool, but like any tool, it’s best used when you understand its capabilities and limitations. A plumber’s expertise can ensure that you use PEX appropriately and avoid any potential complications.

For example, a copper pipe leak might be caused by corrosion, a faulty connection, or even a larger structural issue. A plumber can diagnose the cause and determine whether PEX is the right material for the repair. They can also ensure that the PEX is installed correctly, which is crucial for preventing leaks and ensuring the system’s longevity.

In some cases, the underlying problem may not be solvable with PEX alone. The plumber might recommend replacing the entire pipe system or using a different material altogether. Their expertise can save you time, money, and potential headaches in the long run.

Remember, a professional plumber isn’t just about fixing problems; they’re about preventing future issues and ensuring your plumbing system is safe and efficient. So, before you dive into any plumbing project involving PEX, reach out to a qualified professional for guidance and peace of mind.

Deburring pex | DIY Home Improvement Forum

Is it necessary to deburr pex(aquapex) before inserting it into a sharkbite fitting? The reason I ask is because upon inspection, a fresh cut pex pipe( cut using a pex cutter not a hacksaw) seems pretty clean, deburring it seems to create a rougher texture…. DIY Home Improvement Forum

How To Cut Pex Pipe (Guide) – Angi

Learn how to cut PEX pipe yourself if you need to replace copper or galvanized steel pipes due to leaking, corrosion, or rust. Cutting PEX pipe only requires Angi

3 Common SharkBite Installation Mistakes to Avoid

Deburr. This step rids tubing of any sharpness that could puncture the o-ring of a push fitting. Use the SharkBite deburr and gauge tool to deburr the pipes completely for a SharkBite

SharkBite PEX Installation Guide

SharkBite PEX is an excellent pipe product for plumbing, radiant and hydronic systems, ofering many more advantages than rigid pipe. The combination of SharkBite push-to SharkBite

Burying PEX Pipe in the ground – Home Improvement

Does PEX pipe fittings / splices buried in the ground need to be protected? If so, how? How should the PEX pipe be protected as it is going through the PVC sleeve penetrating the footing/foundation? It Home Improvement Stack Exchange

SharkBite PEX-A Installation Instructions 2021

SharkBite PEX-A Pipe Guidelines What to do: For potable water and hydronic distribution. y Do install SharkBite PEX pipe to the appropriate plumbing code. y Do use SharkBite sharkbite.com

How to make a push fitting connection with PEX and

PEX cutter. Push fitting (s) Disconnect clips (optional) Deburr/depth gauge tool (optional) Step 1: Make a clean and square cut with a pipe cutter. Step 2: Mark insertion depth on the pipe. Refer to pipe depth insertion chart PexUniverse

How to Cut PEX Pipe | Thumbtack

After the cut, use a deburring tool to remove any rough edges. This step is critical for preventing damage to fittings, allowing the pipe to more easily attach to the Thumbtack

How to Cut PEX Pipe Like a Pro – StuffSure

You can deburr the edges with a file or a deburring tool. Now that you know how to cut PEX tubing like a pro, you are ready to start your next plumbing project! Materials Needed. In order to cut PEX pipe StuffSure