The progress of the past two decades has led to a surge in PEX's use in new buildings and renovations. Photo courtesy of Reliance Worldwide Corp.

One-click connection to the PEX system is particularly useful in water heater installations.

When installing a push-in system, be sure to use best practices.

Push-to-connect, also known as push-in piping solutions, has been on the market for decades as a time-saving alternative to traditional piping systems that require welding or glue.

PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) can be used with push-in joints and is becoming more and more popular with contractors due to its flexibility and ease of use. The need to transition from different pipelines to PEX has increased the use of push-in joints because of their efficient methods and versatility to connect different types of pipelines.

Since the 1980s, PEX-based drinking water systems have been common in Europe, driving the improvement of PEX systems. Plumbers in North America need more time to warm up the PEX system, but progress in the past two decades has led to a surge in PEX use in new buildings and renovations. According to industry experts, more than 70% of new residential buildings currently use PEX drinking water systems.

PEX connection systems currently on the market include:

Push-in connectors: Push-in connectors are a popular, time-saving connection method that does not require special tools or crimping rings. The pipe is cut to a certain length and inserted into a fitting, which can be grasped and fixedly connected. It is usually necessary to disconnect the tool to release the connection.

Crimping and clamping joints: Crimping and clamping joints are the most commonly used joints in PEX to PEX connections. They come in a variety of styles, require copper crimping or stainless steel clamp rings, and crimping or clamping tools for proper connection.

Compression joint: Compression connection is achieved by placing a compression insert at the end of the pipe, sliding a compression ring on the pipe, and then fixing it with a nut to form a seal. They are easy to install and remove, but are more expensive than crimp joints.

Expansion joint: The expansion joint has a plastic outer tube, which can be sleeved on the tube. Tools are used to temporarily stretch and expand pipes and sleeves to insert fittings. Once the accessory is inserted, PEX will shrink around the accessory to complete the connection.

Crimp joints: Crimp joints are similar to crimp joints, but there is no external crimp ring. Once the tube is inserted into the compression fitting tube, the compression tool compresses the compression fitting tube onto the tube. Most systems are adequate and require manufacturer-specific stamping tools.

The one-key connection system has many advantages. When combined with PEX, they require fewer fittings than rigid pipes, allowing faster installation. PEX can be bent at corners without the need for elbow fittings, and can also be installed over long distances without the use of joints, and allows water to flow quietly, eliminating or reducing the water hammer or knocking sound usually associated with metal pipes.

One-click connection to the PEX system is particularly useful in water heater installations. Traditional water systems with rigid pipes must be cut to length and accurately aligned on the water heater, and as long as there is a sufficient length of pipe, the push-in connection system with PEX can be installed safely. Push-in connectors can also facilitate the transition from water heater connectors to PEX and connect PEX to existing copper or CPVC lines. The fixed push-in system does not require welding and glue, which eliminates safety hazards caused by chemicals, solvents and blowtorches. Compared with rigid piping systems, the press connection system using PEX can also resist scale, pitting, corrosion and freezing more effectively.

In addition to the performance difference between push-in connections and systems that rely on glue and special tools, push-in systems are more efficient in installation. This allows contractors and plumbers to move to the next job faster and achieve high-quality results with smaller teams, saving money.

Although push-in systems are mature and evolving in residential and commercial use, some plumbers and contractors are reluctant to use them due to concerns about leaks and lack of previous experience with PEX and push-in connections. Contractors, plumbers, and other end users who use push-on couplings can avoid headaches by following the following best practices:

Store the push-in connector in a clean place until use. Dirt, dust, sand and other grit will break the seal between the fitting and the pipe/pipe.

Do not install the one-key connection system outdoors without covering or avoiding direct sunlight. Please confirm with the manufacturer the UV level of its PEX.

If the one-button connection system is buried in the soil, please refer to the manufacturer's installation instructions. Most brass fittings require a barrier between the fitting and the soil to prevent corrosion.

Always use a pipe cutter for clean cuts. Using a hacksaw or band saw may produce jagged edges, which may never be completely sealed with the push-in fittings. When loosening the push-in connector, be sure to use the designated removal tool to avoid damage to the connector.

Check the required insertion depth of the connector. The fitting may not be completely sealed unless it is pushed to the required insertion depth.

Do not reuse push-in accessories that exceed the manufacturer's recommendations. The lubricant on most fittings with O-rings will gradually wipe off as the pipe is removed and reinserted. Limit reinsertion as much as possible.

Do not polish the copper pipe when using push-in fittings, as it may damage the flat surface of the pipe and break the seal. When cutting copper pipe, use a sharp cutting blade/ring to cut gradually.

Do not use pipe thread sealant, tape, lubricant or glue. They are unnecessary and may break the connection.

Check the installation instructions provided by the manufacturer of the push-in accessories. Due to the different materials used, not all push-in connectors are the same. Following the manufacturer's instructions will avoid unforeseen problems.

PEX is increasingly used in drinking water systems in new buildings in North America. With the aging of North American houses, the demand for renovation will continue to grow, continue to use PEX, combined with the use of one-click connections.

Brandon Heldman has worked for Reliance Worldwide Corp., a manufacturer of SharkBite push-on fittings for four years, and has performed well in various roles such as sales support representatives, technical support representatives, and current field marketing specialists. His technical knowledge of SharkBite products and other products in the industry makes him a useful resource for RWC.

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