SharkBite is among the most versatile, simple-to-install, safe, and watertight brands of push-fit plumbing fittings. Wondering if it can work on PVC, PEX, or copper? Worry no more! We’re here to assist you as we share the information we have gathered from the experts.
SharkBite fittings work well with polyvinyl chloride (PVC), cross-linked polyethylene (PEX), or copper pipes. They are also compatible with chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC), polyethylene of raised temperature resistance (PE-RT), Polybutylene (PB), or standard dimension ratio-9 high-density polyethylene (SDR-9 HDPE) pipes.
Now you know what pipe is compatible with Sharkbite, we can talk about it in more detail. We will also share with you how to install, dismantle, and the tips for SharkBite fittings. So with that, let's get started with this post!
What Is SharkBite?
SharkBite fittings are push-fit fittings that are very practical devices. They make it possible to join two different pipes without soldering. They're simple, quick, and will help you save a lot of time.
The three components that make up a SharkBite fitting are:
- Collet: It has a ring of metal teeth that firmly grasp the pipe
- O-ring: It forms a waterproof seal.
- Locking mechanism: Holds everything together.
SharkBite fittings have a higher temperature and pressure tolerance than plastic quick-connect fittings because they are made of lead-free brass.
Click here to see this SharkBite contractor kit on Amazon.
SharkBite fittings are the perfect fitting for copper pipes because the material keeps them from cracking in subfreezing temperatures.
Also, it has a push-to-connect design. The teeth clench down when a SharkBite fitting is pushed onto a piece of tubing or pipe. To release them, they must be pushed aside using a disconnect tool.
Moreover, the pipe or tubing is gripped and held in place by the numerous tiny teeth on a collet that surrounds a SharkBite fitting which is called the ring of teeth.
Lastly, SharkBite has a plastic spacer which is a detachable insert that moves the collet, securing the tubing and preventing the tube back out.
What Pipe Can Be Used With SharkBite Fittings?
SharkBite fittings are designed to be easily installed, produce a strong seal, and are compatible connecting to the following:
PVC Pipe
These are common white plastic pipes used for drainage and plumbing. Many use these pipes for their strength, durability, simplicity of installation, and low price.
Click here to see this PVC pipe on Amazon.
PEX Pipe
These pipes are created by joining polymer molecules in polyethylene, which boosts their flexibility and durability. They have recently grown in popularity as an alternative for copper and galvanized piping.
Click here to see this PEX pipe on Amazon.
Copper Pipe
Copper pipes are frequently used for drain and vent lines as well as for residential water supply lines. Soft or rigid copper can be used to manufacture copper pipes, which provide excellent corrosion resistance and dependable connections.
Click here to see this copper pipe on Amazon.
CPVC Pipe
This is a thermoplastic made from polyvinyl chloride resin that has been chlorinated. In comparison to PVC, CPVC is significantly more flexible and has a higher temperature tolerance. It can be used for handling industrial liquids as well as for delivering hot and cold water.
Click here to see this PB pipe on Amazon.
PE-RT Pipe
This is a kind of polyethylene pipe that is not crosslinked and can be used for hot water. These pipes are inexpensive, lightweight, and environmentally friendly. They provide a fantastic substitute for copper and metal pipes.
Click here to see this PE-RT pipe on Amazon.
PB Pipe
These are made from plastic resin, which is an affordable and practical response to the sunbelt building boom between 1975 and 1995.
SDR-9 HDPE Pipe
This kind of pipe is a continuous length, smooth, solid-wall conduit with multiple uses. They have ultraviolet (UV) stabilization and friction-reducing additives.
How Long Do SharkBite Fittings Last?
As long as the product has been installed in accordance with installation instructions and is in compliance with local code, SharkBite fittings that have been properly installed offer permanent connections and are covered by a 25-year warranty against any manufacturer's defect.
The SharkBite universal fittings are made specifically to ensure a lasting connection. They are not meant to be repeatedly disconnected and reconnected.
How To Install And Dismantle SharkBite Fittings?
Push-to-connect fittings made by SharkBite make it simple and seamless to switch between various pipe materials. The fittings can even be installed in wet lines without the need for any tools.
Since the fitting can be turned after installation, you can install it without concern for where it should be placed. SharkBite fittings are authorized for installations both underground and behind walls.
Before burying, wrap the fitting with silicone self-adhesive tape if it is being installed for underground use.
Installing
First, determine the type of pipe material to use. All pipes mentioned above are compatible with SharkBite fittings. The PEX stiffener is pre-loaded into SharkBite fittings for PEX, PE-RT, and SDR-9 HDPE applications. It does not need to be taken out for other pipe applications.
Click here to see these PEX stiffeners on Amazon.
Second, make sure the pipe is free of dings or scratches, and cut it as neatly and squarely as you can. Use a deburring tool or sandpaper to remove any burrs or sharp edges from the copper pipe if you're working with it. Deburring the pipe improperly can damage the fitting.
Click here to see this deburring tool kit on Amazon.
Third, measure and mark the insertion depth of your pipe using the SharkBite deburr and gauge tool.
Click here to see this deburr and gauge tool on Amazon.
Lastly, start connecting. In order to insert the fitting, simply push it against the pipe's insertion mark. To check the connection, turn on the water.
Dismantling
In contrast to other fittings, SharkBite fittings can be taken apart and reused if adjustments are required. Use SharkBite disconnect tongs or clip to remove the fitting.
Click here to see this disconnect tong on Amazon.
Snap the disconnect clip onto the pipe and raise it to the release collar. Then, pull the pipe away from the fitting by depressing the release collar with the disconnect clip.
Click here to see these disconnect clips on Amazon.
After that, slide the disconnect tongs over the fitting and the pipe to use them. Lastly, pull the pipe from the fitting by applying pressure to the release collar of the fitting with the tongs.
A video tutorial on installing and dismantling SharkBite Fittings is shown on Youtube below.
Tips In Installing SharkBite Fittings
Following are the tips to have a successful installation of SharkBite fittings:
1. Use Deburring And Gauge Tools
It's possible to harm the O-ring if the pipe's end has any burrs. A deburring and gauge tool would be very useful in this situation. The pipe's end is very effectively smoothed by it. To mark the depth at which to insert the pipe into the fitting, use the gauge.
2. Never Ever Use A Hacksaw To Cut Pipe
You should utilize a pipe/tubing cutter. When using SharkBite, a clean and smooth cut is necessary to ensure that the pipe is leak-free.
3. No Need To Wait For It To Dry
Push-fit fittings can be used before your pipes are completely dry, so there is no need to wait. If you need to connect your pipes right away, just quickly shut off the water, drain as much water as you can, and start connecting.
4. Ensure Fully Insert Of SharkBite
Read the manufacturer's directions so you are aware of the precise depth at which to insert them into the pipe.
5. Take Time To Installing SharkBite
When installing your SharkBite or other fittings into the end of the pipes, be sure to take your time. If you cram them in too quickly, the O-ring might get damaged, which would lead to a leaky pipe.
6. Use A Special Insert For PEX Pipe
The pipe is prevented from collapsing by this insert. The good news is that the insert is already included in the fitting if you're using SharkBite.
7. Don't Just Pull Out Push-Fit Fitting
You cannot simply pull out a push-fit fitting that has been inserted into a pipe's end after making the decision to do so. You must apply considerable pressure to the fitting's release collar, or collet, in order to remove these fittings. Look for a tiny, plastic ring sticking out of the fitting end if you're using a SharkBite fitting.
8. Tighten The Nuts
Observe the nuts at the ends if your push-fit fittings have "twist and lock" technology. To guarantee that the fitting is completely secure, these nuts must be tightened. On the John Guest fittings, "twist and lock" technology was widely used. The fact that SharkBite fittings lack this technology should be noted.
9. Use Locking Clips
You can use optional locking clips to increase the security of your push-fit fitting. These tiny attachments fit in between the collet and the fitting body.
In Summary
With the help of SharkBite pipe transition connectors, you can switch between various pipe materials quickly, easily, and securely, ensuring that jobs are finished on schedule and with high-quality materials.
SharkBites are approved for use with copper and PVC/CPVC. These fittings work well with copper, whereas some other push-to-connect fittings perform better with plastic connections. PEX tubing is compatible with SharkBite fittings as well.
However, when using them with PEX, you must use tube stiffeners because they are required for the fitting to connect.
We hope that all the information above has helped you. Please feel free to browse our website or check out the articles below if you need more of our guidance.