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Can PEX Pipe Be Used For A Tub Spout Drop?
Tab spouts are commonly found on kitchen sinks and bathroom sinks. Tab spouts are a mixer tap component or a solo single spout.
No, Manufacturers don’t recommend you connect PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) directly to a tub sprout drop.
PEX boasts usage as a piping material for water distribution systems, and manufacturers don’t design it for direct connection to faucets or other fixtures. To connect a faucet to a PEX water supply line, you would typically use a transition fitting that connects the PEX piping to the faucet.
These transition fittings come from brass or other suitable materials and come in designs that provide a secure connection between the PEX piping and the faucet.
The right transition type will depend on the faucet you are connecting. Some faucets, such as those made by Moen, have a quick-connect adapter used on the metal end of the PEX pipe to connect it to the faucet.
However, other PEX fittings include a male and female thread to connect with other fittings, such as water supply lines or jointers.
In addition to transition fittings, you can use a brass tee instead. A tee is more reliable because it has three points of connection rather than one, making it less likely to leak.
Regardless of the type of fitting you choose for your particular faucet, any fitting that boasts making for PEX should be able to connect directly from the water supply line to the faucet.
If the pipe is long, you must use a clamp or hose clamp to secure the fitting. For short or moderate-length pipes, you should be able to use an adhesive such as construction sealant designed for water lines.
Where Should You Not Use PEX?
| Place | Description |
| High-Temperature Applications | – Places where the temperature is over 200 degrees Fahrenheit. – On metal, metal alloys, or electrical systems where the temperature is over 200 degrees Fahrenheit. |
| Near Potential Sources Of Ignition | -Don’t run PEX in rooms where you expect a fire. – Don’t install it in any place where it could boast exposure to sparks or open flames. – Don’t use PEX in bathrooms or kitchens. |
| Chemical Or Solvent Exposure | -Avoid using PEX near highly corrosive chemicals. – Avoid using PEX in any installation where it could come in contact with solvents or vapors. |
| Pressurized Compressed Air Systems | -In conditions where there is a risk of the PEX pipe getting pressurized. – Do not use PEX in any application that requires compressed air. |
| Outdoor, Above-Ground Installations | -Don’t use PEX on outdoor structures. – Don’t install in above-ground pools, hot tubs, or spas. – Don’t use on pipes that run through a concrete. – Don’t install in underground pipelines and foundations. |
Can You Use PEX Instead Of PVC?
Yes! Here are a few advantages of using PEX over PVC:
1. Flexibility: PEX is more flexible than PVC, making it a better choice for installations with bends or angles.
2. Moisture Barrier: With PEX, you only need to install a moisture barrier on the inside of the pipe, not outside.
3. Longevity: PEX boasts polyethylene material and thus has an indefinite lifespan when installed correctly.
4. Quieter Operation: PEX pipes are quieter than PVC pipes, as they have better sound-dampening properties. This can be advantageous in applications where you desire noise reduction.
5. Less Vibration: PEX has a stiffer outer wall and is less noisy than PVC pipes.
6. Reduced Odor: PEX pipes can be coated inside with an odor-reducing compound, meaning they will not emit a strong odor when installed in locations boasting high moisture levels (such as bathrooms or basements).
7. Fire Resistance: Pipes are often rated as Class A under specific fire tests, which makes them more fire-resistant than PVC pipes.
8. Water Resistance: PEX pipes are highly water resistant. This property makes them a good choice if you need a pipe that will last for many years in locations such as outdoor swimming pools.
What Size Pipe Is Used For The Bathtub Spout?
Regarding the pipe size used for a bathtub spout, it’s essential to consider the standard measurements and specifications.
While the exact size may vary depending on the manufacturer and model, common standards boast following in the plumbing industry.
A standard bathtub spout typically utilizes a 1/2-inch NPT (National Pipe Thread) connection. This means the spout is designed to fit a pipe with a 1/2-inch NPT thread.
However, it’s vital to note that the actual outer diameter of the pipe may be slightly larger than 1/2 inch.
The 1/2-inch NPT thread size refers to the internal diameter of the pipe thread, which measures approximately 3/4 inch.
This measurement boasts usage for plumbing applications such as faucets, spouts, and showerheads. The NPT designation indicates that you have tapered with the threads, allowing for a secure and watertight connection.
When installing a bathtub spout, it is crucial to ensure that the pipe size matches the specifications provided by the manufacturer.
The connection between the spout and the pipe should be compatible to prevent leaks or issues with water flow.
You should consult the manufacturer’s instructions or product specifications to determine the exact pipe size required for your specific bathtub spout.
Generally, the standard size for the pipe used with a bathtub spout is often 1/2-inch NPT. However, referring to the manufacturer’s instructions or specifications is always important to confirm the appropriate pipe size for your specific spout model.
Does PEX Restrict Water Flow?
Yes! The diameter and design of the PEX pipe and the fittings used can affect water flow, so PEX could restrict water flow if used in an installation with a desired maximum water flow.
PEX also requires the entire length of the pipe for usage before complete installation in the wall. Because of this, it is possible that water from an adjacent space could leak through the wall into a space where PEX has limited water flow.
However, this occurs depending on the thickness and type of drywall used (less likely with thicker drywall).
PEX is plastic, so you cannot bend it after installation; if it needs to change the flow direction, you must cut out and re-plumb your PEX.
This can be as simple as removing an elbow or as difficult as cutting a length of pipe from an existing run, which requires you to reattach the remaining pipe.
If your PEX boasts installation in a tight space, you may need this modification.
PEX is not designed as a direct water supply for fixtures (such as toilet flushing) or irrigation.
It can also pose a fire and heat hazard because it will not burn, but could melt away over time if exposed to high temperatures and prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
PEX can also deteriorate in ultraviolet light, so you must take care of it if installed under decks or spaces with a lot of direct sunlight.
Can PEX Pipe Withstand Hot Water?
Yes, PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) pipe boasts designs that can withstand hot water. You can use it for cold and hot water plumbing systems in all applications.
PEX pipe has excellent temperature resistance and can handle hot water temperatures up to a specific limit, typically around 200 degrees Fahrenheit (93 degrees Celsius), depending on the particular type and brand of PEX pipe you purchase.
It is essential to know there are different types of PEX pipe, such as PEX-A, PEX-B, and PEX-C, each with varying temperature resistance levels.
PEX-A is generally considered the most flexible and has the highest temperature tolerance, followed by PEX-B and PEX-C.
To determine how flexible you need to go, ask yourself how often you will use the hot water heating system.
Some PEX pipes can withstand high temperatures without becoming brittle, but it is essential to avoid extreme temperature fluctuations. In addition, you should always use different types of PEX pipe.
For example, mixing PEX-A and PEX-B pipes using the same fittings could weaken their performance.
It is also essential to remember that while most types of PEX pip are designed to withstand hot water temperatures, any time a hot object comes in contact with standard water pressure can result in a burn.
If you have any concerns regarding the PEX piping in your home or business, it is essential to contact your local plumber. They are experienced with using different PEX pipes and can help you decide which fits your needs best.
What Are Five Things That Can Go Wrong With PEX?
| Impact | Explanation |
| Freezing And Bursting | -A problem with the PEX line can cause freezing, bursting, or popping of the tubing. -It can lead to pipes that have cooled and become brittle. -It can cause a sudden cold blast, damaging the surrounding area. |
| Chemical Incompatibility | -Excess gas and strong acids can cause the tubing to burn. -It can lead to a strong smell that can harm sensitive noses. |
| Mechanical Incompatibility | -PEX tubing can be attacked by chemicals or microbes, potentially causing deterioration and even rupture. -PEX tubing, over time, can become brittle, which can cause the tubing to split open or fall apart. |
| Boiling | -Boiling water can attack PEX and cause it to split or melt, collapsing or exploding. |
| Impact | -A sudden shock can cause the PEX tubing to crack or split open. |
How Do I Know If My PEX Is A Or B?
- Check for Markings: PEX-A and PEX-B pipes boast labeling with markings on the tubing. These markings might include “A” or “B” to indicate the type of PEX. Look for these letters printed along the length of the tubing. The markings are typically visible and legible.
- Visual Inspection: PEX-B tubing is typically yellow, while PEX-A tubing is white. The two types of pipes also differ in shape, size, and markings. Inspect your PEX pipes closely to determine whether they are PEX-A or PEX-B. Both kinds of PEX will look exactly alike, but the difference lies in their inner composition and durability.
- Measurement: The diameter of a PEX-A pipe is typically smaller than that of a PEX-B pipe. A PEX-A pipe may be no more than 0.5″ in diameter, while the same pipe can be up to 1″ in diameter within a PEX-B system.
- Manufacturer’s Documentation: The manufacturer of your PEX tubing should be able to clarify whether your system is PEX-A or PEX-B. Ask them for the specs of both.
- Identify the Type of Pipe Present: The size, shape, and markings on a PEX pipe will indicate whether it’s made with A or B materials.
- Difference in Inner Composition: You will most likely find PEX-A pipes made only from white plastic and PEX-B pipes made from ABS plastic.
- However, there are some instances in which PEX-A pipes are made only from white PVC, while the same piping boasts white polyethylene (PE) material within a PEX-B system.
Is PEX Better Than A Galvanized Pipe?
| Feature | PEX | Galvanized |
| Flexibility | Highly flexible | Less flexible |
| Weight | 5.5 pounds per foot | 2.25 pounds per foot |
| Durability | Corrosion resistant | Can rust when exposed to high temperatures or chemicals in some cases but not PEX tubing. |
| Freeze Resistance | Freeze resistance, as it can expand and contract without breaking. | Breaks when frozen |
| Rigidity | Less rigid than a galvanized pipe, can bend without breaking | Can’t bend without breaking and may crack due to freezing. |
| Strength | Stronger than galvanized pipes. | Less durable than PEX. |
Conclusion
Tub spout fittings and pipe fittings are both essential in PEX installations. When deciding which PEX to use, it is crucial to consider the size of the pipe you are converting.
Consult your plumber for advice on fitting a PEX system in your home or business. Learn how PEX can benefit your plumbing, heating, and electrical systems.
