Using pex for the first time. Even after crimping, I find that valves and fittings rotate easily. Is that normal? I’m concerned that I may end up with a whole lot of leaks. As far as I know, I’m using the correct tools and materials.
Thanks in advance for any replies.
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Replies
I would say they rotate, but not easily.
How long have they been in?
Crimp style or expansion.
This is not the expanding type. It's the Zurn stuff sold by Lowe's. It uses the black crimp rings with the go/no-go gauge. The pipe will not pull loose from the fitting, but the fitting rotates with only a slight bit of effort. Even the valves that attach to the manifold have a slight wobble to them.New knowledge is priceless.
Used knowledge is even more valuable.
I have had several brands spin, but it took a little effort.
Could be some lube or moisture on the fitting that is reducing the friction.
Spinning is ok, wobbling is not.
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<factory certified installer of wirsbo/upnor ... which mean the factory guy came by spent 30 min with me & my plumber... next thing i know i get a certificate in the mail... I'm "factory trained & certified"
yes they rotate... at least the wirsbo/upnor... which is the expand the pipe and slip in the fitting... in thousands of joints all the way up to 1.5" tube... zero leaks nada... not a one.... none...
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I don't think that the fitting should rotate with light of mild force. I would check the adjustment of the crimping tool. It may be a little off on the factory setting. There is an instruction book on how to calibrate the crimping tool. I have done many crimps with the Zurn tool and crimp rings and all my crimps are really tight.
Virginbuild
I used the Watts WaterPEX system for my new house, and yes, they all rotate to an extent. And none of them leak.
I used that system in a house I just finished. I would say that the properly installed rings can rotate, but not easily. I had a problem with some of my 1/2" rings not being crimped tightly enough. I think that the tool loosened up somewhere along the way or got adjusted for the 3/4" size and was then wrong when switched back to 1/2". When I turned the water on and pressurized the system, I had several small leaks. All I had to do was adjust the crimp tool tighter and go back and clamp down on the leaky fittings - no more leaks. I'll definitely keep a closer eye on adjustment next time.
Jamie