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The popularity of PEX in residential and commercial construction has produced an influx of engineered polymer (EP) F1960 expansion fittings claiming to be “just the same as Uponor ProPEX^®”. However, these lower-quality F1960 fittings are putting systems and contractors at significant risk for leaks or poor performance.

Uponor ProPEX fittings are certified by a third-party agency, NSF International, to prove the product is designed and manufactured to the ASTM F1960 standard. In addition, ProPEX fittings also include additional internal quality testing that extends beyond ASTM F1960 standard requirements to provide a higher-quality product.

Some suppliers claim their fittings are compliant to F1960, which means, in their opinion, they meet the standard. However, there is no third-party agency to confirm that compliance. This confusion between certification and compliance is resulting in PEX piping installations with lower-quality connections that are putting systems at risk for failure and jeopardizing installers’ reputations.

Uponor has performed a random sampling of these lower-quality F1960 EP fittings and found them to have a reduced internal diameter — up to 50% in some instances. Additionally, Uponor has received claims for failed connections that, after investigation, were found to be different suppliers’ low-quality F1960 fittings.

Many generic F1960 expansion fittings have a thinner sealing barb and weaker tube stops compared to ProPEX fittings. Those differences can result in leaks that cost time and money to repair — and also damage a contractor’s reputation.

It is important to be vigilant when ordering and purchasing F1960 fittings. Ensure you are getting the superior quality of ProPEX that comes with a 25-year transferable limited warranty when used as a system with Uponor PEX-a pipe and ProPEX rings.

To learn more about the differences in ProPEX and how it can impact your business, visit uponor.com/propex.

Webstone®, a brand of NIBCO, announces new Water Heater Service Valve Kits. These kits simplify the installation of water heaters and isolate the water supply and other peripheral devices for service. Hot and cold connection solutions are available with options for your unique installation needs, including isolation valves, vacuum relief valves, and expansion tank service valves.

All kits feature FIP dielectric unions for connection to the water heater and press or sweat options for connection to system piping. All products are forged from lead-free dezincification-resistant brass.

Learn more: www.webstonevalves.com/pro-pal

The Easier, More Economical Way To Locate Leakage

The Gen-Ear LE^® from General Pipe Cleaners provides a simple, more economical water leak locator with stronger sound amplification than competitive systems offer.

Gen-Ear LE can pinpoint water leaks in residential and commercial water lines – including problems in walls and under concrete slabs, swimming pools, and hot tubs.

General’s compact amplifier fits easily in the palm of your hand – providing noise-free amplification with built-in, preset audio filters to eliminate settings guesswork.

High performance headphones with noise cancellation also block interference from ambient noise. And when released, an amplifier safety button mutes sudden loud noises.

Gen-Ear LE’s advanced acoustic ground sensor accurately detects the gurgling or hammering of water escaping from cracked pipes under concrete, asphalt, or tile. Probe rods pinpoint problems beneath soft surfaces like grass or carpet. And the magnetic attachment locates above ground pipe or hydrant leaks.

For especially hard-to-find leaks, the Sound Amplification Module adds air to the line, increasing water pressure and amplifying leak sounds to aid precise problem location.

Two AA batteries power Gen-Ear LE for 20 or more hours. To extend battery life, the system automatically shuts down when headphones are removed. And the power light blinks to indicate low batteries.