PEX is Candu Plumbing & Rooter Thousand Oaks plumber assistance -line material that can be used in many residential and commercial applications. It is also used in some industrial settings. However, there are some places where PEX isn’t allowed, and it is vital to learn about those before you install the pipe. For example, you should never use PEX in direct contact with water heaters. The melting point of PEX makes this connection incompatible. You should also avoid exposing PEX to areas with extreme temperatures and UV rays. In addition, you should not install PEX tubing in areas where it might be exposed to rodents and other pests. Additionally, many building codes require that you flush PEX before the water is used for human consumption.
High heat
One of the most common problems with PEX is that it is not resistant to high temperatures. This can be dangerous for pipes and fittings that run inside of the home. PEX is not approved for use in areas with high heat, such as near hot water heaters or recessed lighting. In addition, exposure to certain chemicals and pests can damage PEX. Some pest control companies recommend that customers avoid PEX altogether.
Although PEX pipes are not allowed in areas with extreme heat, it is still important to conduct a pressure test before installing them. Failure to do so can result in leaks, or even burst pipes. While PEX pipes are more durable than copper, they are still susceptible to breaking when exposed to high temperatures or physical damage. High levels of chlorine can also reduce the service life of PEX pipes.
Solid-lumber joists
When installing solid-lumber joists, notches must be a minimum of one-sixth of the joist’s depth and cannot exceed three-fourths of the joist’s depth. Notches in joists are also not permitted if they are located in the middle third of the span, and they must be supported laterally.
When using Thousand Oaks plumber blog post , be sure to protect the tubing from exposure to outside elements. For example, if you install PEX inside a solid-lumber joist, you need to protect it with a rigid sleeve. This prevents shearing of the tubing at the wall, which can lead to leaks into the building.
The spacing between the joist and the supply pipe should be approximately two-thirds of the joist’s width. In addition, the hole must be at least one-third the joist’s depth. Solid-lumber joists can’t be drilled below the bottom rim or within six inches of a wall or rim joist.
Notches in the center third of a joist
When notching joists, it is important to follow the guidelines for depth and diameter. Generally, the notch should be no more than one-fourth of the depth of the joist. The center third of the joist should be a free space. Likewise, notches in the top or bottom of large beams are not allowed.
The codebook gives two diagrams of notches. One illustrates notching on the ends of the joist, while the other one shows notches at the center third of the joist. In either case, the new hole should leave at least two inches of solid wood between the edge of the notch and the top or bottom edge of the joist.
Direct connection to a hot water heater
There are some instances where PEX tubing can’t be directly connected to a water heater. Some manufacturers specify that PEX cannot be directly connected to the product, and others require that PEX be connected to at least 18 inches of other approved pipe. The Zurn PEX installation manual, for instance, has several requirements for distance from the pipe connection and the gas water heater flue.
Direct sunlight can deteriorate PEX piping, and it can be damaged by pests. Since PEX is made of plastic, it is more prone to damage from pests and chemicals than metal pipes. In addition, mice and other rodents can chew through PEX. Therefore, PEX shouldn’t be installed in areas that receive a lot of sunlight or are exposed to wind turbines.
Pex can’t be installed directly to a water heater
Installing PEX directly to a water heater is not recommended. The water inside a water heater can reach a temperature of 460 degrees Fahrenheit, so the piping needs to be installed away from this point. https://www.sharkplumbers.com/plumbing-services/ require that PEX be installed 12 inches away from the water heater’s pipe connection or the flue. It is best to follow the manufacturer’s directions to install PEX properly.
If you plan on installing a water heater, the installation process can be complicated. The type of piping you use will depend on the type of water heater and local building codes. Copper piping is a common choice because it is durable, reliable, and resistant to chemicals. Copper piping is also very versatile and can be installed inside and outside of the home. However, copper piping is more difficult to install than PEX and requires more fittings. It is also much more expensive than PEX. If you are installing a water heater, you should hire a professional to help you.
Candu Plumbing & Rooter
22144 Eccles St, Canoga Park, CA 91304
(855) 522-2638
https://www.sharkplumbers.com/