Question? I’m getting ready to run my H/C water supply lines for my unfinished (taking forever to remodel) basement. Is it a good idea to use Shark Bite connectors? I utilizing CPVC, and I have never used this product…that is the connectors, so I’m using it in my place of residence.
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Replies
Elbert,
I used them on my own place with CPVC at the specific recommendation of my plumber.
Guys been in business for over 40 yrs and is the most sought after plumbing contractor in this area because of his knowledge and skill.
This will serve as a bump for others to add their comments.
Hey dovetail,
Thanks a million. That gives me peace of mind. I call my Bldg Div Inspector...and he pretty much guessed it was OK. However, he did not give me a rock solid yes.
The good news, it easy to remove without the headache.
E
There have been a few folks here who used them and said they worked pretty much as advertised. The main problem (besides expense) is that they don't have a track record to speak of -- no one knows how they'll do 10-20 years down the line.
Yeah I wonder about the track record also. Example: John Guest fittings came big on the scene a few years ago and are still very popular almost exclusive to to water filter world. They're great for assembling units at the factory but a couple years down the road when I have to service the units you get leaks. Its actually a easy fix to replace the O ring which I automatically do on the fittings I disturb or replace outright with a good old Jaco fitting. The units I assemble get only Jaco fittings. I have talked to the John Guest folks at various trade shows and just get a reaction of disbelief and just listen to my experience with that glazed over look. Total bs. If you never have to touch a John Guest fitting it will probably never leak. That being said I use Sharkbites but only for temporary connections while a job is in progress, they are a real time saver.Say you are putting a system together and want to pressure test or flush the system before moving on just use a sharkbite coupler with a valve and fire it up then just pop it off and keep going or just leave the job up for the customer and go back next day and finish up. I love em I just don't trust em for permanent installations.
wookie
DanH,
I guess that makes sense. Down the road it may give way, that is the connections. And the last thing I want is to rip drywall.
I guess you'll never know for sure until you install the product and see what develops. I guess a mold/mildew test down the road will dictate todays job, and tmrw possible frustration.
Thanks for the insight.
I am currently using Sharkbite and TecTite brand fittings in an industrial chilled water application. It is working great, but get back to me in 10 years! I used them because of the ability to make changes easily, R & D project....
CPVC fittings are so cheap and only one glue is needed, no primer necessary. Easy and quick glue up. I would use the CPVC fittings in a house. Save the expensive fittings for temporary use or problem areas, i.e. attaching copper to PB to PEX to CPVC. I know, Sharkbite does not promote their use with PB, but so far, so good. I'll let you know in 10 years.
Frank DuVal