Why is PEX plumbing bad — or is it?

What is PEX plumbing?

PEX plumbing is short for cross-linked polyethylene. It's a versatile and innovative piping material that’s gaining attention across the plumbing industry.

It was initially designed to replace traditional plumbing materials like copper and PVC. Unlike these materials, which are rigid and come in straight lengths, PEX tubing is more flexible. That means plumbers can use fewer joints, which reduces the risk of leaks.

PEX pipes are also available in various colors: blue, red, white, and gray. This makes it easier for the installer to identify a specific application. For example, many plumbers use blue for cold and red for hot, which makes it very easy to tell them apart.

Additionally, PEX is corrosion-resistant, which addresses a common issue in traditional metal piping systems.

Why don't plumbers like PEX?

Despite its widespread adoption for residential and commercial plumbing projects, discussions around PEX often evolve into debates. People are concerned about PEX's potential long-term health and environmental concerns, as well as its compatibility with certain water conditions.

Here are a few reasons why some plumbers and homeowners may feel like PEX pipes for your home are not a good choice:

• PEX plumbing is susceptible to rodents. While PEX pipes are prized for their flexibility, the downside is that the material's lighter, more supple nature makes it more prone to damage from rodents. When rodents damage your plumbing pipes, you may have to spend money to fix leaks and make repairs
• PEX is sensitive to UV light. Too much sunlight can degrade the pipes and shorten their lifespan.
• PEX pipes are sensitive to chlorine. PEX pipes may be sensitive to high levels of chlorine in the water supply. Exposure to elevated chlorine concentrations can lead to the degradation of the chlorine resistance of the PEX material, making it less durable over time.
• PEX can't be used for outdoor aboveground applications. According to the Plastic Pipe and Fittings Association (PPFA), "PEX is currently designed for indoor and buried applications only and is not recommended for outdoor, aboveground use." Again, this is mostly because UV light can damage this type of piping.
• PEX plumbing raises questions about contaminants in drinking water. Some studies have revealed and identified some contaminants in water released by PEX piping. However, some organizations have dismissed these claims and studies — calling it "misinformation" — causing more confusion and debate within the industry.
• PEX is accused of creating odors in your drinking water. Again, this is a claim previous studies have found — but some organizations have dismissed this claim as well because of how the study was conducted.

Is PEX banned?

PEX pipes may be prohibited in certain places if they don't meet safety standards. For example, PEX plumbing was banned in California before 2010. Now, PEX pipes are legal but come with mandatory use standards to ensure safety.

Check with your city and state to find out if PEX is legal in your area.

Are there any benefits to using PEX plumbing?

While there are certain disadvantages to using PEX plumbing, there are reasons homeowners may choose it over alternatives like copper pipes. For example:

• PEX plumbing is easy to install and requires fewer specialized tools because there are not as many connections and fittings needed.
• Compared to copper and other traditional plumbing materials, PEX pipes are much less expensive.
• It’s very flexible and less rigid than other types of pipes. Flexible PEX pipes are less likely to burst if water freezes inside. Still, it can still happen, so take steps to insulate your pipes during the cold seasons.
• Unlike metal pipes, PEX is corrosion-resistant. This helps ensure a longer lifespan (up to 40 years) for your plumbing system and helps maintain water quality.
• PEX is less prone to scaling, which can occur in pipes over time. This helps maintain a more consistent water flow and reduces the need for maintenance.

So, what type of plumbing should homeowners use?

While there are distinct disadvantages to using PEX pipes, it may be helpful for your project in some situations. The decision ultimately depends on factors such as your budget, local building codes, and the needs of your plumbing project.

While PEX plumbing offers several benefits, it's crucial to weigh these pros and cons:

Consult a top-rated plumber near you.

If you're not sure what type of pipes should be used for your next plumbing project, rely on the pros. Instead of DIY-ing the project, hire a plumber who can help you decide on the best type of piping and complete the project for you.

Use the Thumbtack app to start searching for top-rated plumbers in your area today.

FAQs.

How many years does PEX plumbing last?

With typical use, PEX pipes last up to 40 years if properly maintained. However, this may depend on a variety of factors, including frequency of use, water temperature, and insulation. Most commercial providers offer a 25-year manufacturer’s warranty. 

Is it better to use PVC or PEX?

While each has its benefits and drawbacks, PVC tends to be more widely used and considered the standard when compared to PEX. Most importantly, PVC can be used outdoors, while PEX cannot.

Do mice eat PEX pipes?

Yes. Because of its flexibility, rodents (including mice) have been known to chew on and damage PEX pipes.