In this frosty winter, a hot bath after a long day of work can set up the mood right. And electric water heaters can do the trick. You can even install them yourself if you’re handy with tools and have a little bit of experience.
However, can you connect PEX directly to your electric water heater? You can connect it DIRECTLY to the heater, but if you ask if you should, then NO, you shouldn’t! That is to say, you can use this material as an extension.
But why shouldn’t you connect it directly? If you want to use it as an extension, how should you do it? Well, tag along with us! In this article, we’re gonna discuss your confusion away.
What is PEX Tubing?
PEX tubing is a type of cross-linked polyethylene tubing that is frequently used in plumbing applications. This tubing solution is made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and is used in a variety of applications, including plumbing and hydronic heating.
It’s available in various sizes, from 3/8-inch to 1-inch in diameter, and in various lengths, from 4 feet to 100 feet. Also, it is available in various colors, including white, black, red, blue, and green.
PEX is known for its flexibility, durability, and resistance to freezing and bursting. It is also easy to install and does not require soldering or glue.
Why Shouldn’t You Connect the PEX Directly to Electric Water Heaters?
PEX is a great material for plumbing because it is flexible and doesn’t corrode. However, connecting PEX directly to electric water heaters is not recommended. Think again if you’re considering connecting PEX directly to your electric water heater. It might not be a good idea.
Here’s why:
1. It’s a fire hazard
PEX is made of high-density polyethylene, which is a highly flammable material. If there’s a fire in your home, the last thing you want is for the flames to spread quickly through the PEX piping.
2. It voids the warranty on your water heater
Most water heater manufacturers void the warranty if you connect PEX directly to the unit. That means if something goes wrong with your water heater, you’re on your own.
3. It’s not up to code
In most areas, it’s not up to code to connect PEX directly to an electric water heater. That’s because the National Electric Code requires a dielectric union to be used when connecting dissimilar metals. PEX is made of plastic, so it doesn’t qualify as a metal.
4. It’s more likely to leak
The reason for this is that PEX can expand and contract with temperature changes. This can cause the PEX to loosen from the fittings on the water heater, which can lead to leaks. (Of course, when not installed properly).
5. Risk of electric shock
Additionally, the expansion and contraction of the PEX can put stress on the electrical connections, which can lead to shorts and fires. Meaning it can even be the cause of death.
So, if you’re considering connecting PEX to your electric water heater, we recommend against it. If you absolutely must connect PEX to an electric water heater, be sure to use copper or brass fittings and use dielectric unions to separate the dissimilar metals.
Why Should You Opt Out For PEX Over Copper?
There are a few different options available on the market when it comes to tubing electric water heaters. However, PEX tubing is quickly becoming one of the most popular choices, thanks to its benefits.
If you’re wondering why PEX tubing is better than copper tubing for electric water heaters, here’s a look at some of the reasons:
1. PEX tubing is more resistant to corrosion.
One of the main reasons why PEX tubing is better than copper tubing for electric water heaters is that it’s more resistant to corrosion. This is thanks to the fact that PEX tubing is made from cross-linked polyethylene, which is a material that’s more resistant to corrosion than copper.
This means that you won’t have to worry about your PEX tubing corroding over time, which can lead to leaks.
2. PEX tubing is more flexible
Another reason why PEX tubing is better than copper tubing for electric water heaters is that it’s more flexible. This makes it much easier to install, as you won’t have to worry about making sure that the tubing is perfectly straight.
This also means PEX tubing is less likely to crack or break during installation, saving you a lot of time and money.
3. PEX tubing is cheaper
One of the biggest reasons why PEX tubing is better than copper tubing for electric water heaters is that it’s cheaper. PEX tubing is made from cheaper materials than copper tubing, which means it costs less to produce.
This means that you’ll be able to save money on your electric water heater, which can be a big bonus.
4. PEX tubing is easier to install
As we mentioned before, PEX tubing is much more flexible than copper tubing. This makes it much easier to install, as you won’t have to worry about making sure that the tubing is perfectly straight.
This also means PEX tubing is less likely to crack or break during installation, saving you a lot of time and money.
5. PEX tubing is safer
PEX tubing is also a safer option than copper tubing. This is because PEX tubing is less likely to leach chemicals into your water, which can be dangerous. Additionally, PEX tubing is less likely to corrode, which can lead to leaks.
Overall, there are many reasons why PEX tubing is better than copper tubing for electric water heaters. PEX tubing is more resistant to corrosion, more flexible, cheaper, easier to install, and safer. If you’re looking for an electric water heater, PEX tubing is the way to go.
How To Connect PEX Indirectly To An Electric Water Heater?
If your home is equipped with a PEX (polyethylene) plumbing system and you need to connect it to an electric water heater, there are a few things you need to know.
The first is that PEX is not compatible with copper or brass fittings, so you’ll need to use special PEX fittings. The second is that PEX is not rated for hot water applications, so you can’t have a direct connection. You’ll need to use an indirect connection.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Cut the electricity to the water heater.
- To turn off the water heater, turn off the cold water supply.
- Cut the PEX tubing to the desired length.
- Slip a PEX fitting onto each end of the PEX tubing.
- Connect one end of the PEX tubing to the cold water inlet on the water heater.
- Connect the other end of the PEX tubing to the cold water shut-off valve.
- Turn on the power to the water heater.
- Open the cold water shut-off valve to allow water to flow into the water heater.
However, placing the PEX at least 6 inches apart from the exhaust pipe is crucial. And the connection should be made with at least 18 inches long copper or galvanized steel pipe. Otherwise, the PEX will expand due to excessive heat.
Bottom Line
PEX may be a great tubing solution, but it has its downsides too. It’s made from polyethylene and can expand in the reaction of excessive heat. Which means it bears some serious risks. As a result, it is not advisable to connect it directly to electric water heaters.
So, if you connect PEX tubing to an electric water heater, it is important to ensure that the tubing is properly insulated. This will help to reduce the risk of both electrical shock and fire.
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