Manifold, parallel or home-run plumbing systems are much like a breaker box for the electrical system in the home. The manifold provides a common location from which all the plumbing fixtures are supplied. Some high-end manifolds also feature fixture shut-off valves allowing the user to shut off the water to individual fixtures from one location. Others are semi-home run manifolds or termination manifolds, which may feed the plumbing requirements for a room or set of rooms and reduce the number of fittings required in the plumbing system.

Yes, the flexibility of PEX allows many directional changes to be made without fittings.  PEX systems are sized in the same manner as copper or CPVC CTS plumbing systems. PEX piping is also used in high performance manifold plumbing systems that takes advantage of the flexibility and cost effective.

PEX is available in 1/4″ through 1″ CTS (Copper Tube Size) and is packaged in coils or 20′ straight lengths. Some manufacturers tubing is color-coded for easy identification of hot and cold lines. Coil lengths generally run to a maximum of 1000′ and are available in a variety of shorter lengths.

PEX is available through most plumbing wholesale distributors throughout the United States and Canada. Many retail building supply outlets also supply PEX piping and fittings. Piping and fittings are commonly available in 1/4″ through 1″ CTS (Copper Tube Size) with some manufacturers also supplying larger sizes up to 2.” Because the wall-thickness is proportionate for each size, the pressure ratings are the same for all sizes.

Most PEX plumbing systems can be tested immediately after the installation is complete but follow manufacturer’s directions. There is no wait time for glue to dry or joint to cool off. Manufacturer’s instructions should be followed in cold climates.

PEX plumbing and radiant heating systems can be pressure tested using water to check for leaks. Follow manufacturer’s instructions.

PEX tubing can be used up to 200° Fahrenheit for heating applications. For plumbing, PEX is limited to 180° F. Temperature limitations are always noted on the print line of the PEX tubing.. PEX systems are tested to and can be used with standard T and P relief valves that operate at 210” F and 150 psi.

PEX tubing is not intended for outdoor applications and must be stored in a covered environment not exposed to direct sunlight. Refer to manufacturer’s instructions as to how long your pipe can have UV or sunlight exposure.

There are currently three methods for producing PEX tubing, the “Engle” or “Peroxide” (PEX-A) method, the “Silane” (PEX-B) method, and the “E-beam” (PEX-C) method.  All three processes produce tubing that exceed the minimum requirements of ASTM F 876 and are acceptable for potable water distribution applications. All PEX that has been tested and certified for potable applications carries the mark(s) of nationally recognized third-party certification agencies such as NSF, IAPMO, ICBO-ES, Warnock Hersey or UL.

PEX is designed and tested to perform as well or better than any other material approved for hot and cold-water distribution systems. For indoor plumbing applications, PEX is expected to perform as long as copper, CPVC or any other approved plumbing distribution materials.