PEX fittings were introduced to Australia by the Couta Group in 2005, initially as GasPex Australia, with PEX fittings that were primarily designed for gas installations.
Then, with the popularity of the Gas PEX fittings, the company introduced its WaterPex range of fittings in 2008 designed for use with both cold water and hot water. This encouraged a rebranding and the Australian sector of the company became known as the Couta Group.
Nowadays, PEX fittings are used by plumbing professionals right around the country thanks to their range of advantages over other types of gas and water fittings.
Here are just some of the benefits that have made PEX fittings a favourite among plumbers in Australia.
1. PEX Fittings Are Fast And Easy To Install
Each PEX fitting is very fast and easy to install using just a crimp tool. The crimp tool is used to compress a crimp ring that secures the fitting to the PEX hose.
This is a much quicker and safer way of connecting fittings to pipes as it eliminates the need to use solder and a soldering iron and doesn’t require the need for heat.
PEX pipe is also flexible which adds to the ease of installation as well as a considerable time saving. Thanks to this flexibility, fewer directional fittings are required for each connection.
PEX pipe is also significantly cheaper than copper pipes. This offers important savings to the end customer.
2. Using PEX Pipe Reduces The Number Of Connections Required In Any Plumbing System
As PEX pipe is flexible, it can easily be manoeuvred around corners. This eliminates the need to use numerous elbows or other types of fittings that are commonly needed when using rigid pipe such as copper piping or metal pipe.
Not only does this reduce the number of connection points, but it also lowers the cost of materials needed and minimises the potential for leaks, significantly increasing safety - key when installing both gas and water pipes.
PEX tube also comes in long coil lengths which helps to reduce the number of connections required.
3. PEX Pipe And Fittings Are Highly Resistant To Extreme Weather Conditions
PEX piping and fittings are the most durable piping products available on the market today. PEX is resistant to freeze damage plus, it’s also resistant to corrosion, scaling and pitting.
PEX piping and fittings have the ability to withstand a wide range of temperature extremes from very cold to very hot. This makes them ideal for use in Australia’s varying climate.
4. PEX Pipe And Fittings Are Extremely Durable
As PEX is resistant to corrosion and does not facilitate mineral build-up or scaling, it's far more durable than other common materials like copper pipe. PEX commonly has a life span of 50 years or more.
As PEX tubing is flexible, it has the ability to expand and contract. This means that it’s not easily damaged when exposed to freezing temperatures or high-heat conditions.
5. PEX Significantly Reduces Fire Hazards During Installation
As no heat or soldering is required to install PEX tubing or fittings, this significantly reduces fire hazards, especially when working with gas installations.
This also makes the PEX system ideal for installation in small or constrained spaces where the use of heat would be quite dangerous.
6. PEX Reduces The Chances Of Water Contamination
Unlike plastic pipe or PVC pipe, PEX piping doesn't have to be glued. This eliminates the need for toxic solvents which may end up in the drinking water.
This offers a huge benefit to the end customer who can be assured that their drinking water is safe and free from any harmful chemicals. Ensuring the best water quality is important for all plumbing installations.
Get Your Quality PEX Fittings At Forge Plumbing
At Forge Plumbing, we offer a wide range of PEX tubing and fittings to suit all of your plumbing applications. Whether you’re doing a gas or water installation, our PEX product range will have all the supplies that you’re looking for.
Plus, you’ll be purchasing a quality brand of PEX products that are all designed to fit together seamlessly and provide the best possible connections. This avoids mixing brands that may not be designed to work together.
When you purchase your PEX products from us, you’re covered by our zero-risk returns policy and you can take advantage of our free shipping on every order, irrespective of the cost or where in Australia it's going.
If you set up a trade account with us, you can take advantage of our Buy Now and Pay Later payment system.
If any questions, give us a call on 1300 120 100 and have a chat with our friendly customer service team!