piping

Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) is manufactured using three different methods of cross-linking. PEX-A is produced by the peroxide (Engel) method. Common brands sold in North America produced under the Engel method would be Uponor, Rehau & MrPEX. One unique property of PEX-a is its ability to be heated, using a heat gun, and repaired if kinked Read more

Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) is manufactured using three different methods of cross-linking. PEX-A is produced by the peroxide (Engel) method. Common brands sold in North America produced under the Engel method would be Uponor, Rehau & MrPEX.

One unique property of PEX-a is its ability to be heated, using a heat gun, and repaired if kinked in the handling process which eliminates the need to cut the tubing and install a coupling. This information is widely known by plumbers having experience with this type PEX but for those not familiar I thought I’d take a couple minutes and put it all in a quick video. The total time it took to make this simple repair was about 5 minutes using the cordless heat gun. I edited the video to speed up the process, using a corded heat gun would also quicken the process. No manufacturer condones the use of a flame (torch) as a heat source.

 

John Guest has always been a trusted name in push-to-connect fittings. But with JG ProLock, they’ve reached for a new level. An advanced thermoplastic fitting usable with copper, PEX, and CPVC, JG ProLock introduces Twist-to-Lock technology for ultimate control. ProLock’s responsive design ensures a secure fit at unprecedented insertion depth – and because it’s safe Read more

John Guest has always been a trusted name in push-to-connect fittings. But with JG ProLock, they’ve reached for a new level.

An advanced thermoplastic fitting usable with copper, PEX, and CPVC, JG ProLock introduces Twist-to-Lock technology for ultimate control. ProLock’s responsive design ensures a secure fit at unprecedented insertion depth – and because it’s safe for behind-wall use, it’s a unique combination of strength and versatility.

  • No tools or master installer needed for installation
  • Audible click sound and visible alignment arrows assure a secure fit
  • 45% more insertion depth than traditional joining solutions
  • Certified for ASSE1061 and NSF61(G)
  • In compliance with the UPC® (Uniform Plumbing Code), IPC® (International Plumbing Code) and the National Plumbing Code of Canada
  • Available for copper, PEX and CPVC tube sizes (CTS) 3/8” through 1”

The best way to see the power of ProLock is to try it yourself. Get your free sample coupler today at JGProLock.com.

https://youtu.be/OKchhHbl2SA The Hub’s Eric Aune visits with Uponor’s head of training Wes Sisco to discuss some new plumbing applications Read more

The Hub’s Eric Aune visits with Uponor’s head of training Wes Sisco to discuss some new plumbing applications.

https://youtu.be/OKchhHbl2SA The Hub’s Eric Aune visits with Uponor’s head of training Wes Sisco to discuss some new plumbing applications Read more

The Hub’s Eric Aune visits with Uponor’s head of training Wes Sisco to discuss some new plumbing applications.

Here’s a quick look at the Milwaukee Tool Cheater pipe wrench 48-22-7314. When I first got my hands on the Cheater wrench I was blown away by its simplicity. I thought “Why hadn’t someone thought of this decades ago?!” This wrench had the potential to replace my traditional, fixed-length wrenches but it’s not there just Read more

Here’s a quick look at the Milwaukee Tool Cheater pipe wrench 48-22-7314.

When I first got my hands on the Cheater wrench I was blown away by its simplicity. I thought “Why hadn’t someone thought of this decades ago?!”

This wrench had the potential to replace my traditional, fixed-length wrenches but it’s not there just yet. Milwaukee is pushing the fact that this wrench takes the place of three wrenches but I’m not yet convinced. To me it’s either a short, medium length or too long of a wrench for 1/2″-1″ pipe sizes.

I’d prefer some modification to the handle to increase grip and control. With some improvement I’d be more inclined to use it up high or overhead. Check out a related Instagram post for more thoughts and comments by many of my followers.

If you look close you’ll see some chipped paint on the wrench head. I’m not sure if this is epoxy or powder coat but it’s chipped in about ten spots, rust will form there no doubt. I’ve had this wrench since June/July ’16. It’s been used weekly at least. I should have included this in the video: This wrench retails for $99. That’s a bit high in my opinion. I get why the pricing is set there, marketing it as a 3-n-1 but it doesn’t truly replace three wrenches and therefor I’d say the current price is upwards of $30 too high. Just my opinion. Please click the video below for a look.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ijoqAGaZ2CY

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