When it comes to PEX Piping vs. Copper, unless you're a plumber or an electrician, you may not even know the difference or which piping is better for your home. So, maybe it's time to expand your basic knowledge of plumbing and electricity to know what you're getting and if it's something you actually want. Once you've got the basics down, you'll know what to request from your plumber or electrician and why.

Let's start with what PEX Piping is. PEX Piping is cross-linked polyethylene pipe. What this means is that after the material goes through various processes, it becomes durable enough to handle extreme hot or cold temperatures and what's called "creep deformation" (that occurs from extended exposure to stress). It also counters chemical attacks from alkalines, acids, and other toxins. These factors all make PEX piping an excellent piping solution for cold and hot water plumbing systems. PEX tubing is also very flexible and adapts effortlessly to temperatures from below freezing all the way up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit.

PEX Piping is also better for your budget. It's a convenient material for your plumber or electrician to install and with its crack resistance and fewer joints, it brings your plumbing and electrical costs down. Pex has fewer fittings than copper, less chance of leaks, and can be used along with metal or PVC Piping, and can have a pressure balancing system.

Now Copper: On the beneficial side, Copper combats corrosion and is not affected by ultraviolet rays, which means it can be useful for outside plumbing needs. This factor differs from PEX pipes, which can be affected by ultraviolet rays and therefore should usually not be used outside. On the downside, however, copper will corrode from the pH of the water if the water becomes too acidic or too basic for the copper pipes.

Copper piping can freeze and break during winter weather, it has become more expensive and har der to install, raising your plumbing costs and with corrosion, the higher levels of copper seeping into your water will give your water a metallic taste.

It's our hope that these comparisons have given you a better basic understanding and knowledge of the differences between PEX and copper piping, giving you the opportunity to make the best decision for yourself. 

Contact the experts and John's Electric for all of your pip repair and other plumbing needs.