There are no performance differences between red, white, blue and white PEX and all are intended for use in potable water systems. The colors can be used to easily distinguish between hot and cold distribution lines. Orange PEX pipe is an oxygen barrier PEX pipe used only for hydronic heating applications.
Is PEX safe for potable water?
The inner pipe for drinking water is made of a plastic called cross-linked polyethylene (PEX). ... There are no health risks associated with drinking water from PEX pipes. A few types of PEX-pipe may cause prolonged undesirable taste and odour if the water remains in pipes over time.
Is PEX safe for drinking water 2021?
With a plumbing-pipe offering in sizes up to 3 inches, PEX is challenging traditional copper and CPVC materials for domestic water applications. ... This provides confirmation the pipe does not leach harmful substances into drinking water and is safe for potable systems in healthcare facilities .
What is the safest pipe for drinking water?
Copper pipes with lead-free joint materials are the best choice for water pipes. They are long-lasting and won’t leach chemicals into your drinking water. However, copper pipes are generally more expensive, and copper’s intensive extraction and manufacturing process presents some environmental trade-offs.
Which PEX is best for drinking water?
Most plumbing applications, especially those involving potable water, call for the use of non-oxygen barrier PEX, offered in several grades. PEX-A , which has the most flexible tubing and best freeze- and kink resistance, is ideal for use with kitchen and bath fixtures.
Why is PEX banned in California?
PEX was banned in California due to some concerns about toxic materials leaking through the pipe and into water . Through various national laboratory tests, PEX has proven to be completely safe and durable. It is now legal in California and even included in principal plumbing codes.
Why is PEX plumbing bad?
Potential chemical leaching is another downside of PEX piping. Due to its chemical composition, the PEX pipe material may leach toxic chemicals including bisphenol (BPA), MTBE, tertiary butyl alcohol (TBA), and others.
What are the disadvantages of PEX?
- PEX may leach BPA and other toxic chemicals. ...
- PEX is extremely sensitive to UV light. ...
- PEX can be damaged by chemicals and pests. ...
- PEX can’t be installed in high heat areas. ...
- PEX is semi-permeable, which means liquid can enter the pipe.
Is CPVC banned in California?
SACRAMENTO, CALIF. — The California Building Standards Commission has completed adoption of new building standards that include approval of CPVC pipe statewide. The new regulations approve CPVC pipe for use in residential water supply piping systems.
Why are sharkbite fittings illegal in California?
CA has a powerful plumbing lobby and they don’t like homeowners having access to easier products. CA has strict anti-lead legislation where many brass fixtures still contain a percentage of lead.
Which pipe is best for water supply?
Galvanized Piping
Galvanized metal is commonly used in construction, but pipes made from galvanized steel can be used in plumbing applications. This particular type of pipe is best used for water lines, as gas lines can cause the zinc to corrode and damage the pipe or block the entire system.
What type of pipe is used for potable water?
Polyvinyl Chloride Pipes
PVC pipes are rigid and are usually white, cream or grey in color. They are used most often for highly pressurized water, such as in a home’s main water supply line. PVC pipes work in a variety of applications, including for transporting potable water and for draining.
What is healthier PEX or copper?
It’s also longer lasting. The chemical leaching in PEX will go down over time while copper will continue to leach . Personally, many of my own health problems were caused by copper pipes so I’m not a big fan. I would choose PEX over copper every time.
Is Blue PEX OK for hot water?
Blue PEX pipe carries cold water . White PEX pipe can be used for either hot or cold water. Gray PEX pipe, like white, can be used for either hot or cold water (although not all DIY centers carry gray).
Can I use blue PEX for hot water?
PEX without an oxygen barrier is designed primarily for use in potable water plumbing systems. ... The color of PEX does not change any of the tubing’s ratings. There would be no problem, for example, using blue PEX for hot water lines or red PEX for cold water lines.
Which is better PEX A or B?
PEX-A is the most flexible of all PEX tubing types, has little or no coil memory and gives installer an ability to repair kinks with a heat gun. ... PEX-B is a clear winner in terms of price vs. both other types.
