How compatable are different PEX systems?

[BigguyZ]

I want to get into PEX for future home improvement projects, but I have a few questions. The tools at HD to crimp are over priced, and I found a crimper set at this website- http://www.pexsupply.com/CategoryPre...ID=26&brandid=. However, I'm wondering if I get some supplies from this site, if I need the occasional fitting or crimping ring, will I be stuck with having to use only those parts? Or would the HD stuff be compatible with these tools/ the tubing/ the fittings? How interchangeable is all of this?

Thanks,
Travis

[scorrpio]

There are generally three systems:
1. ProPEX(Wirsbo), where you expand the tubing from inside before putting over a fitting. Tool is more expensive, and each PEX diameter needs its own size head. But it is considered to make a more durable connection, and less flow restricting (inner diameter of fittings is larger).

2. CinchClamp and CrimpRing (Watts, HydroPEX). Both compress PEX around a barbed fitting. Decent connection. Use same fitting type. Cinch clamp pros: one tool clamps all sizes, easier to remove when altering the system. Copper ring pros: rings cost about 2x less than stainless clamps, make for a more permanent connection. I think your HD is likely to carry one of these systems.

3. SharkBite. I dunno - I just don't trust them.

[BigguyZ]

The system I'm looking at is the crimp connection with the black copper rings. I think that the ProPEX might be nice- but it's rediculously more expensive. The speed of the system is not worth the much much much higher price.

[jessrice]

Travis,

I have that exact set, bought it for my shop plumbing, and it has worked great. I have put in 500-600 feet of both hot and cold, 1/2 and 3/4" and didnt have one fitting leak. This was my first attempt at pex.

I just switched it from 1/2" to 3/4" to install my main supply, and didnt have to do any adjustments to get the crimp pressure correct.

It uses the Zurn black copper crimp rings, the same ones/brand that both HD and lowes sell.

Jesse

[crokett]

3. SharkBite. I dunno - I just don't trust them.

Next month Sharkbite will have been installed for my clothes washer supply for a year. Only leak I've had is the threaded side of the sharkbite that took the hosebib for the washer - my fault not enough teflon tape.

When I move the washer in a few months I will just decouple the fittings, move everything, cut in at the new location and use the same fittings. It will take longer to move the washer than make the connection.