sharkbite pex fittings
Emily Wong
Updated on June 01, 2026
SharkBite brass push-to-connect fittings are compatible with PEX, Copper, CPVC, PE-RT and SDR-9 HDPE pipe. SharkBite fittings come with a PEX stiffener pre-loaded into the fitting for PEX, PE-RT and SDR-9 HDPE. The PEX stiffener does not need to be removed for Copper or CPVC applications.
Why you shouldn’t use SharkBite fittings?
A SharkBite fitting contains a rubber O-ring, which is not best for permanent connections. We don’t recommend using a SharkBite fitting outside because sunlight can dry out the rubber O-ring and cause it to crack or split.
How long do SharkBite fittings last on PEX?
SharkBite fittings last a long time. In fact, SharkBite warrants the fittings for 25 years when used with SharkBite tubing.
Do shark bites ever leak?
SharkBite fittings can leak due to one of these reasons: The pipe was not properly deburred prior to installation. The pipe was not properly inserted. The pipe was not squarely cut.
Is SharkBite and PEX the same thing?
How Copper and PEX Fittings Work. Push-fit or stab-in plumbing fittings are a popular type of PEX and copper fitting; SharkBite is a popular brand name of push-fit fittings used with pressure booster pumps. With a bit of effort, the pipe pushes into the fitting and is held in place by tiny teeth.
Do professional plumbers use SharkBite?
Most professional plumbers believe that SharkBite fittings and other kinds of push-fit fittings should only be used as an emergency, temporary fix, and not for any enclosed or permanent plumbing system.
Do plumbers use SharkBites?
SharkBite fittings have been used quite frequently by do-it-yourselfers in order to accomplish small plumbing tasks. Although they are more expensive than regular connections, the simplicity of pushing these pieces on rather than using solder makes for a hassle free installation.
Do licensed plumbers use SharkBites?
To answer your question, no, Shark Bite fittings are not recommended by professional plumbers. Only because they can charge you much more for the installation if they have to sweat copper.
Are shark bites reliable?
When Sharkbite is and isn’t a good option. Many professional plumbing technicians think that SharkBite fittings and other sort of push-fit fittings need to only be utilized as an emergency situation, temporary repair, and not for any enclosed or permanent plumbing system.
Can you bury shark bites?
Underground burial of SharkBite brass fittings requires that the fitting be wrapped in an impermeable material to protect the connection from ground contaminants. Stretches up to 300% for easy use and creates a watertight and airtight seal. Non-adhesive silicone material bonds to itself within minutes.
How many times can you reuse a SharkBite fitting?
Without adequate lubricant, the SharkBite won’t form a watertight seal. You can reuse a SharkBite fitting a maximum of 3 times. After more than 3 reuses, the SharkBite fitting is prone to leaking. When possible, use new SharkBite fittings for belowground or in-wall plumbing lines.
Is PEX cheaper than copper?
Copper Cost. PEX pipe costs significantly less than copper pipe. For example, 1/2-inch SharkBite PEX tubing costs about one-third the price of copper.
How do you stop a SharkBite from spinning?
Show activity on this post. Silicone tape along the base of the SharkBite valve should keep it from rotating on the pipe. Make sure the silicone tape overlaps itself (that’s how it sticks). Make sure you allow enough time for the tape to fuse to itself as well.
Which PEX fitting is best?
PEX-A, which has the most flexible tubing and best freeze- and kink resistance, is ideal for use with kitchen and bath fixtures. PEX-B is slightly less flexible and less freeze-resistant.
How do you connect PEX to PEX?
Cut the PEX tubing. Slide the PEX crimp ring and over the tubing approximately 2″ past the end.Fully insert the PEX fitting into the PEX tubing so that the fitting’s shoulder touches the tubing.Position the PEX crimp ring 1/4”-1/8” from the end of the tubing. Open the PEX crimp tool’s jaws.
What is the difference between PEX and PEX A?
Flexibility – PEX-A is the most flexible, allowing for it to be fastened by cold expansion, which allows the end to be fluted prior to inserting the fitting. PEX B is not expandable and you should never expand the end of a PEX-B pipe. Kink-Resistance – PEX-A has the greatest resistance, PEX-B the lowest.
How do I know if I have PEX A or PEX B?
Again, the main distinction lies in the manufacturing method, which is what assigns an A, B or C to PEX. PEX A is made using the Peroxide, or Engel, method. PEX B is formed using Silane, or Moisture Cure, method. This is the most common PEX pipe type out there.