What Are the Different Types of PEX Connectors?
PEX tubing is available in three main types: PEX-A, PEX-B, and PEX-C. Each of these has its own connector system. The four primary types of PEX connectors are:
- Crimp Rings (ASTM F1807 & F2159): Used with PEX-B, crimp rings require a crimping tool to compress a metal or plastic ring around the pipe and fitting.
- Clamp (Cinch) Rings (ASTM F2098): Similar to crimp rings but use a stainless-steel clamp tightened with a cinch tool.
- Push-to-Connect (ASTM F877): Also known as "SharkBite" fittings, these allow for quick, tool-free installation but can be slightly more expensive.
- Cold Expansion (ASTM F1960): Used exclusively with PEX-A, this method relies on the pipe's natural shape memory to form a tight, leak-resistant connection.
Which Type of PEX Uses Crimp Rings?
Crimp rings are most commonly associated with PEX-B systems. This method involves placing a metal or plastic ring over the PEX pipe, inserting a fitting, and then compressing the ring using a crimping tool.
It's a widely used system due to its affordability and accessibility. However, it does have some drawbacks:
- More Fittings Required: PEX-B is stiffer than PEX-A, which means more fittings are needed for bends and turns.
- Higher Risk of Leaks: Each connection is a potential failure point, and improper crimping can lead to leaks.
- Difficult to Repair: Once crimped, fittings cannot be reused, making repairs more time-consuming.
For homeowners looking for a cost-effective solution, crimp rings may be a viable option. However, for whole-home repiping projects where longevity and reliability matter most, other connectors, such as Uponor ProPEX fittings, provide superior performance for many years to come.
When it comes to choosing the best type of PEX for a home's fresh water lines, it usually comes down to PEX-A vs PEX-B.
How Do Uponor PEX-A Fittings Work?
Uponor PEX-A, sold under the brand name Uponor AquaPEX, uses a cold expansion fitting system known as ProPEX (ASTM F1960). We have an article that looks at why Uponor PEX-A is the best repiping choice for you. This type of PEX connector is unique to PEX-A and offers several benefits:
- Expansion Rings Create a Secure Seal: The PEX-A pipe is expanded using a PEX expansion tool, temporarily increasing its diameter to accommodate an Uponor ProPEX fitting. As the pipe's shape memory activates, it contracts around the fitting, creating a secure, watertight seal.
- Stronger Over Time: Unlike crimped connections that remain static, ProPEX fittings actually tighten as the pipe returns to its original shape, making the connection even more secure over time.
- Fewer Fittings Needed: PEX-A is highly flexible, meaning fewer connection points and a reduced risk of leaks. This flexibility allows it to be installed in continuous lengths from a central manifold to each outlet with minimal connectors.
ProPEX fittings are designed for long-term reliability, making them ideal for whole-home repiping projects where performance and durability are key considerations.
If you're interested in seeing an Uponor PEX-A fitting in action, you can watch a short clip that shows how Uponor ProPEX connection systems work.
Get your free estimate today
With over 75,000 repipes completed, we've perfected our One-Stop Repipe™ for your home.
What Are the Best PEX Connectors?
At Repipe Specialists, we only use Uponor PEX-A with ProPEX expansion fittings for our full-home repipes. This might make us a little biased, but we believe that Uponor PEX-A is the most secure, durable, and long-lasting option available.
These connectors utilize the pipe's shape memory to form a leak-resistant seal that actually strengthens over time. Unlike crimp or clamp rings, which rely on external pressure, ProPEX expansion fittings fully integrate with the pipe, creating a superior connection that withstands high water pressure and temperature fluctuations.
For homeowners looking for the best PEX connection, Uponor PEX-A with ProPEX expansion fittings is the clear choice. Its unmatched durability, leak resistance, and ease of installation make it the top recommendation for whole-home repiping.
Get a Quote for Repiping Your Home With Uponor PEX-A
Here at Repipe Specialists, we've fully replaced the plumbing in over 75,000 homes since 1991. An Uponor PEX-A repipe is not only the most cost-effective plumbing choice, but it will also save you money in the future (we back our repipes with a lifetime warranty). We continually receive positive customer feedback about their overall home repipe experiences. We often exceed their expectations in:
- Speed: Our repipe crews typically complete a repipe in a day, returning on another day for wall patching.
- Convenience: Through our One-Stop Repipe™ Process, we handle everything from permits, to wall patching, to inspections.
- Cleanliness: Our crews are trained to protect your home while working (we cover all surfaces with protective sheeting), and to clean up fully at the end of each day.
- Peace of Mind: Repipe Specialists is a fully licensed plumber in every state we operate in, and we back all of our repipes with a lifetime warranty.
- Financing programs: To help take the sting out of unplanned repipe expenses, we offer several financing programs.
- Price: As a specialist that performs hundreds of repipes a week, we can deliver high quality repipes at a lower cost vs generalist plumbers. We have an article that covers repipe cost factors in detail. Typically, our repiping projects range from $4,500 for a two-bedroom, one-bath home to up to $15,000 for larger properties and more complex projects.
Schedule a free in-home consult, and one of our local repipe consultants will explain all your Uponor PEX repipe options and provide you with a written, fixed-price quote.