Hot water heater question

[Donald]

Both are used by professionals, is wha I was getting at. Pex A is "expansion" type, and B is crimp style. PEX A can be crimped or expanded, B is crimp only. They both have their advantages and disadvantages, and one is really no better than the other. I really depends on the system and its requiresments.


Alot of PEX A has to do with liability of installation. PEX A cannot be connected, unless you expand first. PEX B on the other hand can be fully assembled, and even tested, without being crimped. Over the years, many people have flooded houses and buildings with uncrimped joints. Simply put, with PEX A, you cannot......not connect it.......if that makes sense.

With PEX B doesn't the fitting reduce the flow as it's ID is smaller than the ID of the pipe?

A plumber who has done some work for me says the quality homes he does the plumbing for are either copper or CPVC. The big developments that want things done cheaply use PEX.

 

[burbguy82]

With PEX B doesn't the fitting reduce the flow as it's ID is smaller than the ID of the pipe?

Sure, there is a flow reduction. Like I said, they both have their advantages. If volume is the concern, PEX is not the answer, copper would be. It also depends on pipe size and fitting amount. Both systems are adequate with the proper amount of pressure. Over long runs, you might see a difference, but by in large, there is no noticeable difference in volume. Really, your sinks gets reduced to less than both and so does your shower.

A plumber who has done some work for me says the quality homes he does the plumbing for are either copper or CPVC. The big developments that want things done cheaply use PEX.

Not sure where you are. These days it is rare to see any house built with other than PEX A or B in NC.

If I built a new house today, I would use CPVC, specifically Flowguard Gold, or copper, depending on if I was on a well or not. Overall, for most application CPVC is the best IMO.

 

[Donald]

I need to re-do copper in summer cottage some that was done by a plumbing hack (me) 40+ years ago and on occasion not drained properly for the winter.