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Home Improvement Needs :: Insulated PEX Tubing
Insulated PEX Tubing:
Insulated Plumbing with PEX Tubing
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Insulated PEX tubing is a perfect choice for both hot and cold plumbing systems.
Since it can withstand both high and low temperatures and is resistant to the chemicals often found in plumbing systems, there aren't many better materials to use.
Because it is impervious to temperature changes, it will not break in freezing temperatures.
Because of this, insulated PEX tubing is used in things like refrigeration warehouses and ice rinks, as well as industrial service lines. And if a product works well in larger commercial buildings, you know it will serve you well in your home renovations.
What is insulated PEX tubing?
Developed in the 1960s, PEX tubing is cross-linked polyethylene, which is a thermoplastic. Polyethylene is most notably used in the plastic bags you find at grocery stores.
In PEX, links between polyethylene molecules form bridges that make the material durable, flexible and able to withstand varied temperatures.
Why use insulated PEX tubing?
Insulated PEX tubing doesn't expand or contract to a point where it becomes problematic after installation. Of course, this completely depends on proper installation.
If water does happen to freeze in the tubing, it can be easily thawed with a hair dryer or a warm cloth, without any damage to the tube.
Cost Effectiveness
PEX is an affordably priced insulated tubing, and because it is so flexible installation generally takes less time than with other types of plumbing systems.
Most plumbing problems happen at joints, but because of the flexibility of insulated PEX tubing, there are less directional fittings, making maintenance less costly.
Insulated PEX tubing can also reduce water consumption since less water needs to be run through the pipes to get hot water at your faucet.
Faster delivery of hot water no only reduces water consumption, but also reduces energy consumption since your hot water heater will have to do less work.
PEX vs. Traditional Materials
There isn't really any downside to using insulated PEX tubing over using copper or PVC plumbing. PEX comes in the same sizes as traditional tubing.
PEX has the same life expectancy as those materials, and performed just as well in tests. Unlike systems that require glue or other fasteners to connect the tubing, you can start testing water pressure on insulated PEX tubing immediately after installation.
PEX is not meant for plumbing lines that run aboveground, and shouldn't be in an environment where it will be exposed to direct sunlight. UV exposure will damage insulated PEX tubing.
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