Why is PEX Plumbing Bad?
Are you considering using plastic pipes for your water supply lines in your home or business? While it may seem like a cost-effective and easy-to-install option, there are several disadvantages to using PEX plumbing or cpvc that may lead to pipe failure. One major disadvantage is that PEX plumbing can degrade when exposed to UV light. This means that if the pipes are installed outside or in areas with direct sunlight, they may not last as long as other types of piping such as cpvc or polybutylene. If you’re considering a repipe for your water supply lines, it’s important to keep this in mind.
Another issue with PEX plumbing is that it is not suitable for outdoor use. The plastic pipes can become brittle in cold temperatures, which can lead to pipe failure, cracks, and leaks. It is important to consider using other materials such as CPVC or considering a repipe to avoid these issues. Some studies have shown that plastic pipes, including PEX and polybutylene plumbing, can leach chemicals into the water supply. This can be a concern for those who want to ensure their water is clean and free from harmful contaminants. If you are experiencing issues with your plumbing, consider a repipe using CPVC pipes to avoid potential health risks.
Furthermore, while PEX plumbing may be cheaper than copper piping initially, it has a shorter lifespan. Copper pipes can last up to 50 years or more, while PEX pipes typically only last around 25-30 years. If you’re considering a repipe, you might also want to consider using cpvc or polybutylene pipes for your cold water system.
Lastly, PEX plumbing, along with CPVC and polybutylene, is more prone to damage from rodents and pests. If these animals get into the walls or crawl spaces where the pipes are located, they may chew through the soft material and cause leaks or other issues. Additionally, PEX, CPVC, and polybutylene pipes are not recommended for use in slab foundations due to the difficulty of accessing and repairing them if necessary.
Reasons Why PEX Plumbing is Bad for Your House
PEX plumbing can leach chemicals into your drinking water, causing potential health hazards.
PEX pipes are made of cross-linked polyethylene, a type of plastic that has been used in plumbing since the 1970s. While it is a popular choice among homeowners and builders due to its ease of installation and affordability, there are concerns about the safety of using PEX pipes for drinking water, especially when installed under a concrete slab.
One issue with PEX plumbing in homes built on a slab is that it can leach chemicals into your drinking water. Studies have shown that certain chemicals such as methyl tertiary-butyl ether (MTBE) and tert-butanol (tBA) can migrate from the PEX pipes into the water supply, potentially causing health hazards. MTBE is a known carcinogen, while tBA has been linked to reproductive issues.
Furthermore, the use of PEX plastic tubing as a plumbing material has been associated with pipe failure. Exposure to these chemicals over time may lead to long-term health problems such as cancer or organ damage. While the risk may be low, it’s still important to consider when choosing plumbing materials for your home.
PEX pipes are not as durable as other materials and may burst or leak, causing costly damage to your home.
Another issue with PEX plumbing is that it’s not as durable as other materials like copper or PVC. While PEX pipes are flexible and resistant to freezing temperatures, they’re also prone to bursting or leaking under high pressure. This can cause significant damage to your home if left unchecked, which is why it’s important to enlist the help of professional plumbing companies. Bursting pipes can flood your home quickly and cause extensive water damage that’s expensive to repair.
Even small leaks in pex tubing, made of durable pex plastic, can lead to mold growth and structural damage if left untreated over time. Because PEX plumbing is relatively new compared to other types of piping systems, there isn’t enough data on its long-term durability. This means that homeowners may face unexpected repairs or replacements down the line if their PEX plumbing fails prematurely.
The fittings used with PEX plumbing are prone to failure, leading to leaks and water damage in your house.
Finally, the fittings used with PEX plumbing are another potential issue. While PEX pipes themselves are flexible and can bend around corners without the need for joints or couplings, fittings are still required to connect the pipes together. These fittings, commonly used by plumbing companies, can be made of different materials such as brass or plastic, and they’re prone to failure over time. Brass fittings can corrode and degrade if exposed to certain chemicals or minerals in the water supply. Plastic fittings can crack or break under pressure or exposure to extreme temperatures.
When these PEX plastic fittings fail, it can lead to leaks and water damage in your home. The cost of repairing these issues can quickly add up, especially if you have multiple leaks throughout your plumbing system.
The One Drawback of PEX Pipe That Even Plumbers Didn’t See
PEX Pipes are Prone to Failure Due to Chlorine Exposure
PEX pipes have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their affordability, flexibility, and ease of installation. However, one major drawback of these plastic pipes is that they can be prone to failure when exposed to high levels of chlorine in the water supply. Chlorine is commonly used as a disinfectant in municipal water systems, and while it’s effective at killing harmful bacteria and viruses, it can also break down the molecular structure of certain types of plastic. Over time, exposure to chlorine can cause PEX pipes to develop microscopic cracks that lead to leaks.
Plumbers Were Unaware of the Issue Until Recently
Interestingly enough, many plumbers were unaware of this issue until relatively recently. It wasn’t until a number of high-profile cases involving PEX pipe failures made headlines that the plumbing industry really began to take notice. Since then, there has been a growing awareness among plumbers and homeowners alike about the potential risks associated with using PEX piping in areas with high chlorine levels for water supply plumbing. While some plumbers still recommend PEX as a cost-effective alternative to copper or PVC piping for water supply plumbing, others are more cautious and advise against using it altogether.
Repiping with PVC or Copper Pipes May Be Necessary
If you’re experiencing issues with your plumbing system due to PEX pipe failure, repiping may be necessary in order to avoid future problems. Depending on the severity of the issue and the extent of damage caused by chlorine exposure, you may need to replace all or part of your existing piping system with either PVC or copper pipes. PVC piping is often recommended as an alternative for water supply plumbing because it’s resistant to chlorine degradation and is less expensive than copper. However, some homeowners prefer copper for water supply plumbing because it’s more durable and has a longer lifespan than either PVC or PEX.
What If I Have a PEX Pipe Leak?
If you suspect that you have a PEX pipe leak, it’s important to take action right away. Even small leaks can quickly escalate into major problems if left untreated, potentially causing extensive water damage and even mold growth in your home. The first step is to turn off the water supply to your home and contact a licensed plumber. A professional plumber will be able to assess the situation and determine the best course of action for repairing or replacing your PEX piping.
In some cases, simple repairs may be all that’s needed to fix the issue. However, if the damage is more extensive, repiping with PVC, copper pipes or pex plastic may be necessary to ensure that your plumbing system remains safe and functional for years to come.
PEX vs Copper: Which Is Better?
What is PEX piping and why is it bad?
PEX piping, or cross-linked polyethylene tubing, is a newer material used in plumbing systems. It has grown in popularity due to its flexibility, ease of installation, and lower cost compared to copper pipes. However, there are concerns about the long-term quality of PEX piping as it has not been used for as long as copper pipes.
One concern with PEX piping is that it may leach chemicals into the water supply over time. While this issue has not been proven conclusively, some experts recommend that homeowners avoid using PEX pipes for drinking water applications until more research can be conducted.
Another potential issue with PEX piping is its susceptibility to damage from UV rays. If exposed to sunlight for extended periods of time, the material can become brittle and crack. This means that PEX pipes should not be used in outdoor water supply plumbing applications or areas where they will be exposed to direct sunlight.
What are copper pipes and why are they better?
Copper pipes and PEX plastic have been used for decades in plumbing systems and are proven materials for homes. They are known for their durability, resistance to corrosion, and ability to withstand high temperatures and pressures. Unlike PEX piping, copper pipes do not leach chemicals into the water supply or become damaged by exposure to UV rays. Copper pipes have a long lifespan and can last up to 50 years or more with proper maintenance. While copper pipes may be more expensive than PEX piping initially, their longevity makes them a worthwhile investment in the long run for water supply plumbing.
Different types of materials
In addition to PEX and copper piping, there are other materials available for plumbing systems such as CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) and PVC (polyvinyl chloride). Each material has its own pros and cons depending on the specific application.
CPVC is similar to PVC but is designed to withstand higher temperatures and pressures. It is commonly used in hot water applications and can be a good alternative to copper piping. PEX plastic can also be a great option for hot water applications. PVC, on the other hand, is typically used for drainage and waste systems rather than water supply lines. It is a more affordable option compared to copper or PEX piping but is not suitable for all applications.
Replacement process
While PEX piping may be easier to install initially, the replacement process can be more difficult compared to other materials like copper or CPVC. This is because PEX pipes are often installed using crimping tools that make it difficult to remove sections of pipe without damaging surrounding areas. Copper pipes, on the other hand, can be easily cut and soldered together during installation and replacement. This makes them a more versatile option compared to PEX plastic.
How to Prevent PEX Water Quality Issues
PEX water lines are a popular choice for plumbing in residential and commercial buildings due to their flexibility, durability, and affordability. However, like any other plumbing system, PEX pipes can develop water quality issues that can affect the health of the occupants and damage the pipes.
Regularly flush your PEX water lines
One of the most common causes of water quality issues in PEX pipes is stagnation. Stagnation occurs when the water in the pipes sits for an extended period without moving, allowing bacteria to grow and multiply. To prevent stagnation and bacterial growth, it is essential to regularly flush your PEX water lines.
Flushing your PEX water lines involves running hot or cold water through all fixtures in your home or building for several minutes until the water runs clear. This process removes any stagnant or contaminated water from the pipes and ensures that fresh, clean water is flowing through them. It is recommended that you flush your PEX water lines at least twice a year or more frequently if you notice any changes in the taste, odor, or color of your tap water. Flushing your pipes also helps to remove mineral buildup that can reduce the flow rate and lead to clogs.
Use a Water Filtration System
Another way to improve the quality of your PEX pipe’s supply system is by installing a high-quality filtration system. A filtration system removes impurities such as chlorine, sediment, and rust particles from municipal sources that may have a negative impact on the taste and smell of your drinking and cooking waters.
A good filtration system that works well with pex plastic piping will remove contaminants while preserving healthy minerals such as calcium and magnesium that are essential for good health. A whole-house filtration system that attaches directly to your pex plastic mainline piping so that every faucet dispenses filtered drinking-quality tapwater.
You can also consider installing point-of-use filtration systems such as under-sink or countertop filters that provide filtered water for specific needs like cooking, drinking, or making coffee. These systems can be easily connected to your plumbing using pex plastic pipes for added durability and flexibility.
Avoid using harsh chemicals or high temperatures when cleaning PEX pipes
PEX pipes are durable and resistant to corrosion but can be damaged by harsh chemicals or high temperatures. When cleaning your PEX pipes, avoid using bleach, drain cleaners, and other harsh chemicals that can damage the pipe’s interior lining and lead to leaks. Avoid exposing your PEX pipes to high-temperature water above 140°F (60°C). High temperatures can cause the pipes to expand and contract rapidly, leading to cracks and leaks. Instead of using hot water for cleaning purposes, use lukewarm water mixed with mild soap or detergent.
If you need to disinfect your PEX pipes due to contamination concerns, use a hydrogen peroxide solution instead of bleach. Hydrogen peroxide is an effective disinfectant that does not harm the pipe’s interior lining. By following these simple steps, you can prevent water quality issues in your PEX plumbing system and ensure clean and safe drinking water for you and your family. Regular maintenance and care are essential for keeping your plumbing system running smoothly and efficiently.
Signs of UV Light Damage on PEX Pipes
UV light exposure can cause PEX pipes to become brittle and crack.
PEX pipes are made of a special type of plastic that is designed to be flexible, durable, and resistant to corrosion. However, when exposed to UV light for extended periods, these pipes can become brittle and crack. This is because the UV rays break down the molecular structure of the plastic, making it weaker and less able to withstand pressure.
Signs of UV light damage on PEX pipes include discoloration, fading, and chalky appearance.
One of the most obvious signs that PEX pipes have been damaged by UV light exposure is discoloration. The once bright and vibrant color will fade over time as the plastic breaks down. You may notice a chalky appearance on the surface of the pipe. This is caused by the plastic becoming more porous as it degrades.
PEX pipes that are exposed to sunlight or UV lights for extended periods may develop leaks or burst.
If left unprotected from UV light exposure for too long, PEX pipes may develop leaks or even burst. This is because the weakening of the molecular structure makes them more susceptible to stress fractures under pressure. If you notice any signs of damage on your PEX piping system due to prolonged exposure to sunlight or other sources of UV radiation, it’s important to address them right away before they lead to more serious problems.
The lifespan of PEX pipes can be significantly reduced if they are not protected from UV light damage.
PEX piping systems are designed to last for many years with proper installation and maintenance practices in place. However, if they are not protected from UV light damage, their lifespan can be significantly reduced. This means that you may need to replace your piping system sooner than expected if it has been exposed to prolonged periods of sunlight or other sources of UV radiation.
To prevent UV light damage, PEX pipes should be installed in areas that are shielded from direct sunlight or covered with insulation.
The best way to prevent UV light damage on PEX pipes is to install them in areas that are shielded from direct sunlight or covered with insulation. This will help protect them from the harmful effects of UV radiation and ensure that they last for as long as possible. If you already have a PEX piping system in place and it has been exposed to UV light, there are still steps you can take to protect it. For example, you can cover the pipes with insulation or paint them with a special coating designed to block UV rays.
Rodent Risk Factors and Weaknesses of PEX Plumbing
Vulnerability to Rodent Damage
PEX plumbing is made from a soft plastic material that is highly vulnerable to rodent damage. This means that rodents, such as rats and mice, can easily chew through the pipes in search of food or water. Once they have made a hole in the pipe, it can cause leaks and water damage to your home.
Rodents are attracted to PEX plumbing because it is easy for them to gnaw through. They can also smell the water inside the pipes, which makes them more likely to target them. If you have a rodent problem in your home, you may be at risk of costly repairs due to damaged PEX plumbing.
Risks Associated with Rodent Problems
If you have a rodent problem in your home, it can lead to several health hazards. Rodents carry diseases that can be transmitted through their urine and feces. These diseases can be harmful if they come into contact with humans. In addition to health hazards, rodents can also cause significant property damage. They will often chew through anything they find in their path, including electrical wires and insulation. This can lead to fires and other safety hazards.
Prevention Methods
Fortunately, there are several ways you can prevent rodents from damaging your PEX plumbing. One effective method is sealing all entry points around your home where rodents may enter. This includes holes around pipes and vents, gaps under doors or windowsills, and cracks in walls or foundations.
Another way to prevent rodent damage is by using metal pipes instead of PEX plumbing. Metal pipes are much more difficult for rodents to chew through than soft plastic materials like PEX.
You should also consider using traps or baits if you suspect that there are already rodents present in your home. However, it’s important to use caution when handling these methods as they pose risks if not used properly.
What You Need to Know About PEX Plumbing Disadvantages
PEX plumbing has become increasingly popular over the years due to its affordability, flexibility, and ease of installation. However, there are several disadvantages that homeowners should be aware of before making a decision on whether or not to use PEX pipes in their homes.
Reasons Why PEX Plumbing is Bad for Your House
One major disadvantage of PEX plumbing is that it has a shorter lifespan compared to other materials such as copper. This means that you may have to replace your pipes sooner than expected, which can be costly and time-consuming. Another issue with PEX plumbing is its susceptibility to damage from UV light exposure. If installed outdoors or in areas exposed to sunlight, the pipes can deteriorate quickly and become brittle, leading to leaks and other problems.
The One Drawback of PEX Pipe That Even Plumbers Didn’t See
Despite being marketed as a durable and long-lasting material, PEX pipes have one major drawback that even some plumbers didn’t anticipate: rodents. Due to the softness of the material, rats and mice can easily chew through the pipes causing leaks and water damage.
PEX vs Copper: Which Is Better?
While both materials have their advantages and disadvantages, copper piping tends to be more reliable in terms of durability and longevity. However, copper piping can also be more expensive upfront compared to PEX.
How to Prevent PEX Water Quality Issues
Another potential issue with PEX plumbing is water quality. Some homeowners have reported an unpleasant taste or odor in their water after installing PEX pipes. To prevent this issue, it’s important to make sure that your water supply is properly treated before it enters your home’s plumbing system.
Signs of UV Light Damage on PEX Pipes
If you suspect that your home’s PEX piping has been damaged by UV light exposure, there are several signs you can look out for. These include discoloration, brittleness, and cracks or splits in the pipes.
Rodent Risk Factors and Weaknesses of PEX Plumbing
To prevent rodents from damaging your home’s PEX piping, it’s important to take preventative measures such as sealing off any entry points and using rodent-resistant materials. Regular inspections can help identify any potential issues before they become major problems.
In conclusion, while PEX plumbing may be a cost-effective and easy-to-install option for homeowners, it is not without its disadvantages. From shorter lifespans to susceptibility to damage from rodents and UV light exposure, there are several factors that should be considered before making a decision on whether or not to use PEX pipes in your home.
FAQs
Is PEX plumbing safe?
Yes, PEX plumbing is generally considered safe for use in homes. However, like any material used in plumbing systems, it has its own set of advantages and disadvantages that should be taken into consideration.
How long does PEX piping last?
The lifespan of PEX piping can vary depending on several factors such as installation quality and environmental conditions. However, on average, it tends to have a shorter lifespan compared to other materials such as copper.
Can rodents chew through PEX pipes?
Yes, due to the softness of the material used in PEX pipes, rodents such as rats and mice can easily chew through them causing leaks and water damage.
What are the signs of UV light damage on PEX pipes?
Signs of UV light damage on PEX pipes include discoloration, brittleness, and cracks or splits in the pipes.
How can I prevent water quality issues with my home’s PEX plumbing?
To prevent water quality issues with your home’s PEX plumbing system, make sure that your water supply is properly treated before it enters your home’s plumbing system. Regular inspections can help identify any potential issues before they become major problems.
