Wow! Talk about great timing! My Kill-A-Watt meter is doing the exact same thing! I used it earlier this week on that spy TV I received to see how much power it was pulling when it was "off" and almost threw it out. I am absolutely going to try this! Thanks for sharing!
I used Pex in my pole barn floor for the hydronic heating system. I used 3/4” tubing on 9” centers. I put 3 coils of tubing and the connectors are all above the concrete. The most difficult part is making the bends parallel to each other so that they look nice. If you ever do this, make an uncoiler to spread the tubing without kinks. It allows the coil to unwind by rotating it. The system has 23 pounds of pressure and there has been no leakage in 4 years. It works very well heating my barn to 50 degrees for about a gallon of propane per day.
Nice explanation of the PEX types. We use similar clamps at my work, they are technically called ear clamps. We use Oitiker brand for much of our plastic and rubber tubing.
I work on old BMWs as a hobby and the screw sizing thing brought back painful memories. One time fixed an instrument cluster. Screw went in sans washer and it went in far enough to crack part of the board. Lesson learned that day.
Yes! So many times there will be different screws that look identical but may only be a hair longer and that can totally ruin your day! I’ve been there more than once! 🫣😂👍
I have PEX in our basement that replaced all of our brass and iron water line and it is the greatest system I have seen. It gets cold in the basement but the PEX has never ruptured. Thanks for sharing this.
Good repair John. My whole house is PEX, only 2 years old. I have used it to add a spigot to the back patio. I used copper rings as that is what builder used. Flexibility of PEX makes it so you can install in existing walls/floors without the holes having to align exactly as with copper. Sometimes you can bend around corner without a fitting. I used plastic fittings, plenty of flow. Copper used to be OK to do before they took the lead out of the solder. New solder requires more heat and materials must be very clean to get a good connection. Good video. Dave
Saw this joke today watching a Seinfeld rerun: Elaine drew a comic for the New Yorker: a pig at the Complaint Department window says: "I'd like to be taller." Recently used PEX-A on a DIY project with great success: I needed to repair some copper lines in a crawlspace on the coast and didn't realize how SAND gets everywhere in a cramped space no matter how much you wipe things off. After 2 failed attempts at soldering some copper joints I realized that sand was either on my wiping rag, my flux brush, in my breath, whatever. The joints had little leaks. In a cramped, sandy space Pex gave me good joints. But I remember the disaster that was PB piping, so my preference is still copper.
Nice work on the Kill-A-Watt! Crazy that it just needed a cleaning. We recently moved into a house that uses 1/2" PEX and man the water flow and pressure just isn't great. I like the idea of upping to 3/4" like you did.
Your shows are so darn interesting. We always learn something, and they promote excellent discussion and suggestions from the viewers. Thanks very much! 👍
Hi John! Looks like the thin strip on the display part you missed it. You did a good job however! Excellent for a 1st time! Zebra connectors are pretty good they last for years, what happens is the strip gets pressed and over time it is not as tight. You can remove it and just squeeze it a little but don't overdo that because it can mis-shape and cause issues. If you use Deoxit on the strip on both sides, it will make connections on the display again don't overdo the Deoxit because that can cause the strip to compress too much and cause issue on the display all over again. It might be better to apply the Deoxit to the board where the little shinny connectors are and to the display connections. At any rate for a 1st time you did a good job, most excellent. You got it going and that says SUCESS! Well, done! If it doesn't last try going back, remove that narrow strip above the actual display and clean where it sits on the display, use some Deoit and then the other side, replace and put it back together and you are good to go. Good Luck I hope it lasts; they can be fiddley. Keep up the good work and love the videos, they are the highlight of my days.
Max- I really appreciate the information, I never seen those type contacts- I still have trouble understanding how the connection is made. My Dad had Deoxit in the attic when he used to clean up old Hi Fi equipment. Thanks again so much! 😃👍
Thout Cawafter, you are one funny guy lol. About 7 years ago I moved into this new house, naturally I had a plumbing problem the first week, I looked at the problem and saw all this plastic garbage and was disappointed. Do to a time factor I had to call a plumber, I had PEX tubing. Needless to say, I watched the plumber and now, as much as I hated it at first, PEX is the only way to ply, I love that stuff.
@@ScoutCrafter I hear ya, I have had some very good luck with pex, I still love copper, but pex is so fast and simple. I have had no leaks or issues with pex.
Nice fix on the Kill-A-Watt. Pex is not my choice. I use plastic for drains but not for supply. I spent too many years repairing and replacing plastic pressure lines in factories. Also I had to help my Mom repair her bathroom after a water line burst in the wall. To be honest the Pex might not have been at fault. This was 30 years ago. She hired a local plumber to plumb her house. They used Pex and strung it in the crawlspace without hangers. It was drooping all over the place. In the wall the Pex was sheared off at the fitting. It looked like the clamp was overtightened and cut the pipe in two. Too say I was angry is putting it mildly. I had installed Mom's cabinets and would have gladly put her plumbing in. It was a one story house with a bath and kitchen. The plumber charged her $2000.00. For Joe Homeowner Pex is easier to install. I just don't trust it.
Great video John, thanks for sharing. The fix on the meter was awesome and will try that on something in the future! I had my house replumbed 9 years ago and the plumber used Pex A, house is close to 100 years old. The galvanized pipe was DONE, water was down to a trickle! Non insulated crawl space and we've had no issues with busted pipes even with temps down in the single digits for a few days. The Pex A does a good job of expanding and not busting when it freezes. May not be advertised that way, but seems to work!
Another terrific video. You would be proud of me, I also attended a party last week and a woman said she had a man read her “ora”, and I just let it go and walked away.😂
Learned another trick to try before disposing of an electronic display instrument. Nice fix! I completely replumbed my calcium-buildup galvanized home water piping with PEX and used a manifold to totally isolate each hot and cold supply line. If I have any issue with a faucet, toilet, outdoor faucet, etc., I simply close the ball valve on the manifold and work on it at my leisure and everything else in the water supply for the house is functional. It really takes the stress out of fixing a leak NOW so the rest of the home can function. And repairs? As long as you have a PEX compression tool, compression rings and a small supply of the PEX, it takes minutes. I thought copper was the very best water lines until I used PEX. Used copper for many years. It would be cost prohibitive to install copper manifolds and individual lines to each appliance like you can with PEX. My system has been in service 8 years now and I have not had any leaking issues. I have read that there is a difference in type A and B in that type A swells several times in diameter and returns to original size after a freeze. Type B also swells when freezing but doesn't return to original size. (Internet info for what it's worth.) Regardless, a small splice is minutes to fix in either type. By the way, I used Type B with copper compression rings in my home. I didn't mean to write an epistle. Thanks.
Tony- Although I’m pretty sure PEX won’t outlast Copper or Brass, the enjoyment factor of working with PEX is off the charts! Every other plumbing job always includes the obligatory cursing session however with PEX it was literally enjoyable! 😂👍
@@ScoutCrafter - The problem with brass is that the threading compromises the rest of the system, Brass pipe would last damn near forever . . . if it did not have to be threaded. I renewed the plumbing in a building which was well over 100-years-old. It came with the water supply in brass. An Old Skool plumber told me to get rid of ALL of it. How right he was: as soon as I tried to cut into the brass, the next joint in the brass would leak. PEX changes everything just like plastic DWV did as opposed to cast iron. Remember the fun of working with CI soil pipe?
Quick tip when disassembling something with multiple different size screws use a cupcake tray and also number the cups in the order that you removed them so you know what goes back in order
An old steel (not aluminum) tray is great because you can stick a small magnet underneath each cup and it becomes almost spill proof. Just pick up a pack of flat neodymium magnets.
I remember the plastic pipe of the 60s, 70s, 80s that was supposed to be so good that a lot of people installed and then a bunch of failures. I am leery of PEX because of that experience. I did not have any of that pipe but I remember the problems a lot of people had. I have worked with PVC and like it. I have also worked with copper pipe and can solder. I spent over 14 years brazing copper to copper in my job.
Two homeowner victories today. I'm glad your electronic repair worked. I find them pretty dicey. Thanks for the tutorial on pex. My house is copper, galvanized and PVC, depending on when repairs or additions were made. So far I like the PVC, but pex looks like an advancement on PVC. Still no real info on drones. Drones in the air are one thing, but shouldn't the government tell us something when drones start closing runways at a busy airport, and shut down a US Air Force base? This is getting more worrisome.
When I first heard about Pex I wasn't thrilled but I saw a This Old House episode where they used it as well as explained the testing done and became impressed. It's not new and was used in Europe since the 1970s and introduced in the US around 1980 so it's not new. Maybe someone from Germany with a house from the 70s can say how it's held up.
I've always said that's the problem with adult movies. They give people an unrealistic expectation of how fast a plumber shows up. 😂 I was never fond of plumbing until a plumber friend showed me how to properly sweat a pipe and it just clicked at that moment. Once I picked that up I don't mind it. With that said I have to do some rerouting of some plumbing here in the house and I think I'm going to try PEX. Thanks for the episode John.
Cool repair on the Kill-A-Watt! After procrastinating for a while because I also hate plumbing, I too am going to tackle a plumbing job. Your demonstration of the Pex was interesting and has given me the confidence to try it out. I need to replace a toilet valve in the wall. There is an unfinished basement below it, so I don't anticipate any access issues. We will be replacing the toilet and the floor covering at the same time. My wife loves to do this kind of stuff, so she will probably be the one actually doing the job and I'll probably just be her moral support.
Hi Jim: If you haven't bought your new toilet yet I would highly endorse the American Standard Champion. Saw it on This Old House when the toilet was fairly new to market, and in the video they showed the thing flushing 20 golf balls with no problem. I've since put them in my own house (2x), my mom's house (2x) and a bunch of rentals and fixers and they just never plug up! I'm sure someone could plug one up, but they would really have try hard. Good luck with your project!
The LCD screen repair was awesome, I have the exact same issue with mine. I am starting a bathroom remodel at my rental house, pex looks appealing, but I'm scared the critters in the crawl space will chew through the pex. Great stuff. Cheers
Hi John. I have wondering about pex for quite some time now. You solved that for me. Looks like great stuff. Thanks. You have great confidence taking that meter apart. You are so amazing. Great job. Have a great day. 👍👍❤🤠
John, I'm not a fan of Pex, don't get me wrong it does have it's place and it's easy to work with. But I am a firm believer in copper. It has a proven background. Pex takes the artistry out of plumbing. You gotta admit when you finish with your plumbing job using copper and everything is shiny and new that's a good feeling.. but for a Holiday weekend in a plumbing emergency Pex is quick and easy.
George I have no doubt PEX will never compare with Brass or Copper but like PVC it has its place somewhere. As a plumber you have a better understanding of the pros and cons of different materials in different applications. 😃👍
Very interesting repair. I have the same attitude when it comes to broken things. Hopeful they can be fixed. I’m with you on plumbing. I generally fix one leak and it turns into 3 more leaks. Thank You
Something else about PEX is that you can get connectors to really old plumbing fittings. This got me out of a disaster once where my uncle had a leak under a concrete floor 12" deep. Replacing the leaking 6 foot length of pipe was impossible with copper, without taking up a lot more concrete, but a length of PEX flexed enough to fit it between adapters to the old plumbing.
Pex is awesome , have replaced copper in multiple homes . Like you said the cinch bands are really good in tight spaces . The other pex rings are cheaper but the tool costs more . The shark bite connections are really good for quick fixes they can join copper to pex , or pex to pex . A draw back is they are expensive. Killawatt reader turned out excellent
I was skeptical of Shark Bite fittings but used some in my home. Absolutely no problems except the expense. Use another method of coupling with PEX if it's practical.
That thin rubber strip on the top of the display is making the contacts. That rubber mat you wiped is just insulation and for mechanical protection of the display. Here in Germany we also use PEX, but in form of a compound pipe. Inner pipe is PEX, then comes a layer of adhesive, then a layer of aluminium sheet, next adhesive layer and as a top is polyethylene (PE), that is not cross-linked. That stuff has a DVGW rating, that means it will last at least 40 years. Depending on the temperature of the water, the hot water will be less durable. But still aproximately 50 years, the cold water can probably last up to 100 years. And one point you did not mention: It is more resilient against freezing. en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deutscher_Verein_des_Gas-_und_Wasserfaches
Marcel- I believe that in the future PEX or some equivalent will be standard. Right now in the US they estimate 60% of new homes are equipped with PEX. 😃👍
Galvanized pipe is horrible! I had it for drains in a house. It gets corroded from the inside. I replaced my waste lines with PVC. The same house had the copper pipes stolen before I bought it. I replumbed with PEX. It is a total game changer. It’s been in place for about 7 years now and I’ve used it for repairs like you did. No problems (knock wood) and it is unlikely to ever be stolen again like the copper. Fantastic fix on that Kill A Watt.
Thanks John, excellent repair on the Kill-a-watt, great community helping each other out with advice and encouragement ! The Pex plumbing looks great, I haven't seen one like that, we have "speed-fit" plumbing systems with plastic joints here that are popular now but I still like to use Copper and Brass ! Looking on the bright side you've got a good length of brass pipe to use for ferrules on tool handles now !
Great video on the Kill-A-Watt. I am always reluctant to work on electronics. Once I do - it is so bad, especially when I research videos such as this. I am currently doing a small addition to our house. I am adding PEX to the existing copper pipe. So nice to work with. I am using PEX-A with the cold compression fittings. Easy to arch and go around obstacles without adding additional connections. Another great tutorial!
About time you fixed that kilo watt. When it comes to plumbing 😢 I'd rather call a plumber. I don't think I'd be comfortable with pex inside a wall but I might give it a try in the basement. Interesting though the last time I had a hot water heater installed as well as my AC unit all they used were those crimp on fittings and they seem to hold up well.
Good video and info. I've used pex tubing in my house with shark bite connections in tight spots. It is a game changer. That crimping tool is just like the tool used on cv joint boot clamps. 😃👍🏻🇺🇲
To be honest I was hoping for a more elaborate "Drone Bit", something like a Drone chasing you when you were out on your walk. I installed a new water softener in maybe the late 90s with PEX and never been a problem in any way so you're likely safe with it not failing for the rest of your days.
Very timely video John! My KillAWatt has the same problem and now I know how to fix it. Also really enjoyed the segment on PEX. Last time the plumbers were here they used it and said they really liked the stuff. Thanks for telling us more about it.
Fantastic Episode! I'm planning to use it to run my airlines from my compressor in the shop! Changed my house out (90% anyways) to that a few years back. Good stuff!
I'd guess the plastic pipes are less likely to freeze. And if they did freeze would probably expand more. Plus in the UK, it's common in empty houses for toe rags to strip all the copper pipe out to sell, and flood the property out. Plus you wouldn't need to earth plastic pipes.
"Old School" copper but, these other types of matls and processes all have their place, when soldering water is the enemy slowing down the installation/repair...thxs for sharing
Wow! What a difference that made on the killa-watt. That was a great segment. I also thought the pipe segment interesting as well. Thanks again and see you next time.
Nice job on the pex. We’ve been installing it for 20 years trouble free at a fraction of the labor and material cost of copper providing savings for our customers. Have not had any quality issues thus far.
Nice fixes all around as always. I am a homeowner and can handle all basically plumbing i feel outside of repiping or plumbing a new build i have to say I am not a fan of pex. Then again I feel old school give me copper and brass anyday of the week and some pvc for drains. Though from looking around most plumbers seem to stand by cast iron because of the noise from pvc which I never considered. I feel like the antimicrobial, antibacterial etc that's natural is copper is better for water lines and I don't care what they say about pex I'm sure give it some more time I understand overseas UK etc has had it in use since the 80s and us maybe only 10 years or so has it become more common but just look at Nalgene and other plastic bottles we had the bpa escapades and I'm sure it will be something found with whatever microplastic chemicals causing issues with people. If I had to go pex I'd feel better with the expansion pex always wanting to reduce down, for sake of not having to upscale and it can handle freeze and thaw easier etc....least thats my understanding of it.
The day I first used PVC on drains was the last day I used metal. As for piping- the PEX is really easy and actually enjoyable to work with but longevity concerns always concerns me- I’m old and don’t have long but if I was Young I would be very conflicted. 😂👍
😂🤣😅😂great joke….I also despise plumbing…that infernal drip 🤬…really liked the look inside your tester I get about that far then just scratch my head at all those little gizmos in there …what da hill do they do…🤔🤔…🖖🏻
I think I was quite harsh on those Ring doorbells earlier 😂 I tend to naturally want to move away from the crowd... Maybe that's why I feel how I feel about cities.
Great job on the LCD screen. I thought there is no way a recovery would be possible. Now for the PEX (and like you) I wouldn't trust it. I am sure, like you, I have heard horror stories of plastic pipe rupturing causing all sorts of water damage. I would be interested if they made a drain line version without the alarm pf high water pressure.
@ScoutCrafter wow! Did you ever listen to or talk with anyone on the other side of the world? What other bands have you used other than 20 meter? Thanks for the reply!
Interesting thing about pex is that the pipes can freeze and they won't burst. It's a must have upstate if you rely on heat tape and working electricity.
Scout. screw that CRC dreck. In my day, I've tried a few contact cleaners. DE-OXIT is the ONLY one worthy of the name. It's not cheap, but it's worth every penny. It comes in an aerosol or liquid; I've used them both and I prefer the aerosol. The drones? Well your sweetheart warned you about buying that aluminum Skelator head, didn't she?
Suburban Chicago. Crook (cook) County here. I have lead pipe from the parkway valve to and through the basement floor up to the main shutoff valve then galvanized from there throughout the house. Lead is now outlawed and the village is trying to get grant money from the federal government to fund a replacement program. PEX is sold in all the big box stores but it’s very unclear if it is code approved. All my pipes are easily accessible and a complete replacement wouldn’t be hard labor wise. Anyway “ I use copper. It costs more because it saves money” - Cosmo Castorini
I would consider using PEX in a non potable setting IE hydronic or grey water use ie. outdoor water. As for potable water I prefer copper or brass even with the extra work involved.
I never used them but have seen them used on RUclips, some people love them some not so much. They can be a little pricey but they are quality made. 😃👍
The problem with any new plumbing system is that the short coming don't show up for 20 or 30 years. Example, who knew that CPVC would become brittle after about 20 years. Polybutylene piping was used extensively 30 or so years ago--now try to get homeowners insurance if you have any of it in you house--just sayin'. Hope PEX doesn't suffer same fate.
Oh man god bless the dad jokes so funny great show love the Pex looks like a great system very interesting what going on with the drones At the moment they are looking for something for sure god bless take care 🇳🇿🇺🇸🇮🇱🗽🪖🦅45-47DJT
Wow! Talk about great timing! My Kill-A-Watt meter is doing the exact same thing! I used it earlier this week on that spy TV I received to see how much power it was pulling when it was "off" and almost threw it out. I am absolutely going to try this! Thanks for sharing!
Tim make sure you watch Friday’s video first!!! 😃👍
I used Pex in my pole barn floor for the hydronic heating system. I used 3/4” tubing on 9” centers. I put 3 coils of tubing and the connectors are all above the concrete. The most difficult part is making the bends parallel to each other so that they look nice. If you ever do this, make an uncoiler to spread the tubing without kinks. It allows the coil to unwind by rotating it. The system has 23 pounds of pressure and there has been no leakage in 4 years. It works very well heating my barn to 50 degrees for about a gallon of propane per day.
In floor heating is amazing! From what I hear, it’s also the most comfortable type of heat. 😃👍
Nice explanation of the PEX types. We use similar clamps at my work, they are technically called ear clamps. We use Oitiker brand for much of our plastic and rubber tubing.
I did the same clean up on a old calculator..good to see i did nothing wrong
I have an update on Friday! 😃👍
I work on old BMWs as a hobby and the screw sizing thing brought back painful memories. One time fixed an instrument cluster. Screw went in sans washer and it went in far enough to crack part of the board. Lesson learned that day.
Yes! So many times there will be different screws that look identical but may only be a hair longer and that can totally ruin your day! I’ve been there more than once! 🫣😂👍
I have PEX in our basement that replaced all of our brass and iron water line and it is the greatest system I have seen. It gets cold in the basement but the PEX has never ruptured. Thanks for sharing this.
Good repair John. My whole house is PEX, only 2 years old. I have used it to add a spigot to the back patio. I used copper rings as that is what builder used. Flexibility of PEX makes it so you can install in existing walls/floors without the holes having to align exactly as with copper. Sometimes you can bend around corner without a fitting. I used plastic fittings, plenty of flow. Copper used to be OK to do before they took the lead out of the solder. New solder requires more heat and materials must be very clean to get a good connection.
Good video. Dave
Saw this joke today watching a Seinfeld rerun: Elaine drew a comic for the New Yorker: a pig at the Complaint Department window says: "I'd like to be taller."
Recently used PEX-A on a DIY project with great success: I needed to repair some copper lines in a crawlspace on the coast and didn't realize how SAND gets everywhere in a cramped space no matter how much you wipe things off. After 2 failed attempts at soldering some copper joints I realized that sand was either on my wiping rag, my flux brush, in my breath, whatever. The joints had little leaks. In a cramped, sandy space Pex gave me good joints. But I remember the disaster that was PB piping, so my preference is still copper.
I agree- Copper and Brass are better however I can’t stand working with them while working with PEX was really enjoyable. 🫣😂👍
Nice work on the Kill-A-Watt! Crazy that it just needed a cleaning. We recently moved into a house that uses 1/2" PEX and man the water flow and pressure just isn't great. I like the idea of upping to 3/4" like you did.
I’ve been using PVC semi-professionally for over 25 years. I’m transitioning to PEX gradually as I am slow to learn and change my ways as I get older.
John- It’s a lot more enjoyable to work with! No cussing! 🫣😂👍
Your shows are so darn interesting. We always learn something, and they promote excellent discussion and suggestions from the viewers. Thanks very much! 👍
The subscribers here are amazing! Everyone pitches in and helps me! 😃👍
Hi John! Looks like the thin strip on the display part you missed it. You did a good job however! Excellent for a 1st time! Zebra connectors are pretty good they last for years, what happens is the strip gets pressed and over time it is not as tight. You can remove it and just squeeze it a little but don't overdo that because it can mis-shape and cause issues. If you use Deoxit on the strip on both sides, it will make connections on the display again don't overdo the Deoxit because that can cause the strip to compress too much and cause issue on the display all over again. It might be better to apply the Deoxit to the board where the little shinny connectors are and to the display connections. At any rate for a 1st time you did a good job, most excellent. You got it going and that says SUCESS! Well, done! If it doesn't last try going back, remove that narrow strip above the actual display and clean where it sits on the display, use some Deoit and then the other side, replace and put it back together and you are good to go. Good Luck I hope it lasts; they can be fiddley. Keep up the good work and love the videos, they are the highlight of my days.
Max- I really appreciate the information, I never seen those type contacts- I still have trouble understanding how the connection is made. My Dad had Deoxit in the attic when he used to clean up old Hi Fi equipment. Thanks again so much! 😃👍
It's a press contact on both sides on that plastic strip. Has pretty good luck using IPA and run across the 2 contact surfaces.
Thout Cawafter, you are one funny guy lol. About 7 years ago I moved into this new house, naturally I had a plumbing problem the first week, I looked at the problem and saw all this plastic garbage and was disappointed. Do to a time factor I had to call a plumber, I had PEX tubing. Needless to say, I watched the plumber and now, as much as I hated it at first, PEX is the only way to ply, I love that stuff.
I know when I swapped some drain pipes for PVC I said I’ll never go back to metal drain lines. Maybe PEX is the same? 😃👍
@@ScoutCrafter I hear ya, I have had some very good luck with pex, I still love copper, but pex is so fast and simple. I have had no leaks or issues with pex.
The junk plastic tubing was most likely CPVC, this becomes brittle after awhile.
Nice fix on the Kill-A-Watt.
Pex is not my choice. I use plastic for drains but not for supply. I spent too many years repairing and replacing plastic pressure lines in factories. Also I had to help my Mom repair her bathroom after a water line burst in the wall.
To be honest the Pex might not have been at fault. This was 30 years ago. She hired a local plumber to plumb her house. They used Pex and strung it in the crawlspace without hangers. It was drooping all over the place. In the wall the Pex was sheared off at the fitting. It looked like the clamp was overtightened and cut the pipe in two.
Too say I was angry is putting it mildly.
I had installed Mom's cabinets and would have gladly put her plumbing in. It was a one story house with a bath and kitchen. The plumber charged her $2000.00.
For Joe Homeowner Pex is easier to install. I just don't trust it.
Great video John, thanks for sharing. The fix on the meter was awesome and will try that on something in the future! I had my house replumbed 9 years ago and the plumber used Pex A, house is close to 100 years old. The galvanized pipe was DONE, water was down to a trickle! Non insulated crawl space and we've had no issues with busted pipes even with temps down in the single digits for a few days. The Pex A does a good job of expanding and not busting when it freezes. May not be advertised that way, but seems to work!
I've been so hesitant to try pex. I just might go for it. It seems less intimidating than trying to solder copper for the first time. For thure!
I couldn’t believe how easy it was and inexpensive compared to the alternatives however I still wonder how it will fare over time. 😃👍
THANK GOD for Bryan Burk!!! That faded screen was driving me to start drinking again!!!
😂😂😂
Another terrific video. You would be proud of me, I also attended a party last week and a woman said she had a man read her “ora”, and I just let it go and walked away.😂
😃👍
Learned another trick to try before disposing of an electronic display instrument. Nice fix!
I completely replumbed my calcium-buildup galvanized home water piping with PEX and used a manifold to totally isolate each hot and cold supply line. If I have any issue with a faucet, toilet, outdoor faucet, etc., I simply close the ball valve on the manifold and work on it at my leisure and everything else in the water supply for the house is functional. It really takes the stress out of fixing a leak NOW so the rest of the home can function. And repairs? As long as you have a PEX compression tool, compression rings and a small supply of the PEX, it takes minutes. I thought copper was the very best water lines until I used PEX. Used copper for many years. It would be cost prohibitive to install copper manifolds and individual lines to each appliance like you can with PEX. My system has been in service 8 years now and I have not had any leaking issues. I have read that there is a difference in type A and B in that type A swells several times in diameter and returns to original size after a freeze. Type B also swells when freezing but doesn't return to original size. (Internet info for what it's worth.) Regardless, a small splice is minutes to fix in either type. By the way, I used Type B with copper compression rings in my home. I didn't mean to write an epistle.
Thanks.
The Ruskis "iron" similar display connections back into functionality.
Tony- Although I’m pretty sure PEX won’t outlast Copper or Brass, the enjoyment factor of working with PEX is off the charts! Every other plumbing job always includes the obligatory cursing session however with PEX it was literally enjoyable! 😂👍
@@ScoutCrafter - The problem with brass is that the threading compromises the rest of the system, Brass pipe would last damn near forever . . . if it did not have to be threaded. I renewed the plumbing in a building which was well over 100-years-old. It came with the water supply in brass. An Old Skool plumber told me to get rid of ALL of it. How right he was: as soon as I tried to cut into the brass, the next joint in the brass would leak. PEX changes everything just like plastic DWV did as opposed to cast iron. Remember the fun of working with CI soil pipe?
Quick tip when disassembling something with multiple different size screws use a cupcake tray and also number the cups in the order that you removed them so you know what goes back in order
I recently starting using a cupcake tray just for this reason!
An old steel (not aluminum) tray is great because you can stick a small magnet underneath each cup and it becomes almost spill proof. Just pick up a pack of flat neodymium magnets.
Worked at Titleist (golf balls) for 32 years. we use those ratchet cutters to cut balls in half for inspection in the manufacturing process.
Great tip on getting those displays to work again!
Brian Burke is a hero! I laughed out loud at your reaction 😂.
Great episode, No! Way better than great.
I remember the plastic pipe of the 60s, 70s, 80s that was supposed to be so good that a lot of people installed and then a bunch of failures. I am leery of PEX because of that experience. I did not have any of that pipe but I remember the problems a lot of people had. I have worked with PVC and like it. I have also worked with copper pipe and can solder. I spent over 14 years brazing copper to copper in my job.
I too have trust issues with PEX- however many people have had issues with copper also and brass is too expensive… 🫣😂👍
Two homeowner victories today. I'm glad your electronic repair worked. I find them pretty dicey. Thanks for the tutorial on pex. My house is copper, galvanized and PVC, depending on when repairs or additions were made. So far I like the PVC, but pex looks like an advancement on PVC. Still no real info on drones. Drones in the air are one thing, but shouldn't the government tell us something when drones start closing runways at a busy airport, and shut down a US Air Force base? This is getting more worrisome.
When I first heard about Pex I wasn't thrilled but I saw a This Old House episode where they used it as well as explained the testing done and became impressed. It's not new and was used in Europe since the 1970s and introduced in the US around 1980 so it's not new. Maybe someone from Germany with a house from the 70s can say how it's held up.
I've always said that's the problem with adult movies. They give people an unrealistic expectation of how fast a plumber shows up. 😂
I was never fond of plumbing until a plumber friend showed me how to properly sweat a pipe and it just clicked at that moment. Once I picked that up I don't mind it.
With that said I have to do some rerouting of some plumbing here in the house and I think I'm going to try PEX.
Thanks for the episode John.
Great Kill-a-Watt and Pex information. Nithe show ScoutCrafter!
Cool repair on the Kill-A-Watt! After procrastinating for a while because I also hate plumbing, I too am going to tackle a plumbing job. Your demonstration of the Pex was interesting and has given me the confidence to try it out. I need to replace a toilet valve in the wall. There is an unfinished basement below it, so I don't anticipate any access issues. We will be replacing the toilet and the floor covering at the same time. My wife loves to do this kind of stuff, so she will probably be the one actually doing the job and I'll probably just be her moral support.
Hi Jim: If you haven't bought your new toilet yet I would highly endorse the American Standard Champion. Saw it on This Old House when the toilet was fairly new to market, and in the video they showed the thing flushing 20 golf balls with no problem. I've since put them in my own house (2x), my mom's house (2x) and a bunch of rentals and fixers and they just never plug up! I'm sure someone could plug one up, but they would really have try hard. Good luck with your project!
Jim- Years back I replaced a toilet valve with a quarter turn ball valve- those cheap junk toilet valves that are standard are horrible!!! 🫣😂👍
I have used Pex. I like it easy to use.
The LCD screen repair was awesome, I have the exact same issue with mine. I am starting a bathroom remodel at my rental house, pex looks appealing, but I'm scared the critters in the crawl space will chew through the pex. Great stuff. Cheers
Joe- I have an update on Friday! 😃👍
Hi John. I have wondering about pex for quite some time now. You solved that for me. Looks like great stuff. Thanks. You have great confidence taking that meter apart. You are so amazing. Great job. Have a great day. 👍👍❤🤠
Larry- I don’t think Plastic will ever beat copper or brass but it sure is user friendly! 😂👍
John, I'm not a fan of Pex, don't get me wrong it does have it's place and it's easy to work with. But I am a firm believer in copper. It has a proven background. Pex takes the artistry out of plumbing. You gotta admit when you finish with your plumbing job using copper and everything is shiny and new that's a good feeling.. but for a Holiday weekend in a plumbing emergency Pex is quick and easy.
George I have no doubt PEX will never compare with Brass or Copper but like PVC it has its place somewhere. As a plumber you have a better understanding of the pros and cons of different materials in different applications. 😃👍
Very interesting repair. I have the same attitude when it comes to broken things. Hopeful they can be fixed. I’m with you on plumbing. I generally fix one leak and it turns into 3 more leaks. Thank You
Me too! That’s why I hate plumbing! 😂👍
Something else about PEX is that you can get connectors to really old plumbing fittings. This got me out of a disaster once where my uncle had a leak under a concrete floor 12" deep. Replacing the leaking 6 foot length of pipe was impossible with copper, without taking up a lot more concrete, but a length of PEX flexed enough to fit it between adapters to the old plumbing.
Excellent point!
Pex is awesome , have replaced copper in multiple homes . Like you said the cinch bands are really good in tight spaces . The other pex rings are cheaper but the tool costs more . The shark bite connections are really good for quick fixes they can join copper to pex , or pex to pex . A draw back is they are expensive. Killawatt reader turned out excellent
Scott- You know your PEX! 😃👍
Thanks John , with your help I’m learning at lot more about restoring tools .
I was skeptical of Shark Bite fittings but used some in my home. Absolutely no problems except the expense. Use another method of coupling with PEX if it's practical.
I have some in my tool box for emergencies , a couple of T ‘s and a few end caps
@@scotthayward996 Don't forget a few couplings for splicing in the event of a line failure. I keep the same inventory.
That thin rubber strip on the top of the display is making the contacts. That rubber mat you wiped is just insulation and for mechanical protection of the display.
Here in Germany we also use PEX, but in form of a compound pipe. Inner pipe is PEX, then comes a layer of adhesive, then a layer of aluminium sheet, next adhesive layer and as a top is polyethylene (PE), that is not cross-linked.
That stuff has a DVGW rating, that means it will last at least 40 years. Depending on the temperature of the water, the hot water will be less durable. But still aproximately 50 years, the cold water can probably last up to 100 years.
And one point you did not mention: It is more resilient against freezing.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deutscher_Verein_des_Gas-_und_Wasserfaches
Marcel- I believe that in the future PEX or some equivalent will be standard. Right now in the US they estimate 60% of new homes are equipped with PEX. 😃👍
Galvanized pipe is horrible! I had it for drains in a house. It gets corroded from the inside. I replaced my waste lines with PVC. The same house had the copper pipes stolen before I bought it. I replumbed with PEX. It is a total game changer. It’s been in place for about 7 years now and I’ve used it for repairs like you did. No problems (knock wood) and it is unlikely to ever be stolen again like the copper. Fantastic fix on that Kill A Watt.
Wait until you start figuring out ways to use the PEX other than for plumbing. It has many neat uses. It's almost endless. Use your imagination 👍🇺🇲👊
I love PVC for drains! I’ll never go back to metal. 😃👍
This was a awesome show! I learned 2 new things. I think I can do a little plumbing now. Thank You for sharing!!!!!
Thanks John, excellent repair on the Kill-a-watt, great community helping each other out with advice and encouragement ! The Pex plumbing looks great, I haven't seen one like that, we have "speed-fit" plumbing systems with plastic joints here that are popular now but I still like to use Copper and Brass ! Looking on the bright side you've got a good length of brass pipe to use for ferrules on tool handles now !
Great video on the Kill-A-Watt. I am always reluctant to work on electronics. Once I do - it is so bad, especially when I research videos such as this. I am currently doing a small addition to our house. I am adding PEX to the existing copper pipe. So nice to work with. I am using PEX-A with the cold compression fittings. Easy to arch and go around obstacles without adding additional connections. Another great tutorial!
Great channel. Personally I only attempt to fix things when they are completely non-functional. The killawatt wasn’t even close to not working:)
Usually I’m like that too but Brian was anxious. 🫣😂👍
That's great you saved kilowatt and good way not to get hosed by the plumber
I love pex. I would love to get rid of the ancient plumbing in this house and put in all pex.
About time you fixed that kilo watt. When it comes to plumbing 😢 I'd rather call a plumber. I don't think I'd be comfortable with pex inside a wall but I might give it a try in the basement. Interesting though the last time I had a hot water heater installed as well as my AC unit all they used were those crimp on fittings and they seem to hold up well.
Fred- The PEX is actually enjoyable to work with unlike most other plumbing equipment. PVC drain pipes changed my life and I’ll never go back! 😃👍
Glad to know about that pex plumbing seems really easy to use and will try that if I need to in the future 👍
Ken- It’s so easy it might make you want to do some random runs! 😂👍
Good video and info. I've used pex tubing in my house with shark bite connections in tight spots. It is a game changer. That crimping tool is just like the tool used on cv joint boot clamps. 😃👍🏻🇺🇲
Scout, PEX looks like great stuff but, I'm too old to change: copper is still king!
I think copper and brass are better however I think the future is PEX. We’re kind of stuck with it.
To be honest I was hoping for a more elaborate "Drone Bit", something like a Drone chasing you when you were out on your walk.
I installed a new water softener in maybe the late 90s with PEX and never been a problem in any way so you're likely safe with it not failing for the rest of your days.
😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂😂 I'm using that joke! 👍🏻
I own a 135 year old house and pex has saved me thousands
Wayne it’s actually fun to run that stuff! 😂👍
Very timely video John! My KillAWatt has the same problem and now I know how to fix it. Also really enjoyed the segment on PEX. Last time the plumbers were here they used it and said they really liked the stuff. Thanks for telling us more about it.
Make sure you watch Friday’s video first on the kill o watt I have an update! 😃👍
Problem is pex doesn't meet code in nyc. Health hazards if those lines are drinking water and your house won't pass inspection when you want to sell.
It’s only a matter of time. Everything will be PEX one day I believe. Copper and Brass is better but also more expensive and harder to install.
Fantastic Episode! I'm planning to use it to run my airlines from my compressor in the shop! Changed my house out (90% anyways) to that a few years back. Good stuff!
I'd guess the plastic pipes are less likely to freeze. And if they did freeze would probably expand more. Plus in the UK, it's common in empty houses for toe rags to strip all the copper pipe out to sell, and flood the property out. Plus you wouldn't need to earth plastic pipes.
"Old School" copper but, these other types of matls and processes all have their place, when soldering water is the enemy slowing down the installation/repair...thxs for sharing
Wow! What a difference that made on the killa-watt. That was a great segment. I also thought the pipe segment interesting as well. Thanks again and see you next time.
South Nassau County last night I had spotted 28 drones in 2 hours
Wow! 😃👍
Nice job on the pex. We’ve been installing it for 20 years trouble free at a fraction of the labor and material cost of copper providing savings for our customers. Have not had any quality issues thus far.
Nice fixes all around as always. I am a homeowner and can handle all basically plumbing i feel outside of repiping or plumbing a new build i have to say I am not a fan of pex. Then again I feel old school give me copper and brass anyday of the week and some pvc for drains. Though from looking around most plumbers seem to stand by cast iron because of the noise from pvc which I never considered. I feel like the antimicrobial, antibacterial etc that's natural is copper is better for water lines and I don't care what they say about pex I'm sure give it some more time I understand overseas UK etc has had it in use since the 80s and us maybe only 10 years or so has it become more common but just look at Nalgene and other plastic bottles we had the bpa escapades and I'm sure it will be something found with whatever microplastic chemicals causing issues with people. If I had to go pex I'd feel better with the expansion pex always wanting to reduce down, for sake of not having to upscale and it can handle freeze and thaw easier etc....least thats my understanding of it.
The day I first used PVC on drains was the last day I used metal. As for piping- the PEX is really easy and actually enjoyable to work with but longevity concerns always concerns me- I’m old and don’t have long but if I was Young I would be very conflicted. 😂👍
That was an verty interesting video about the PEX Plumbing. I'll thinking about to do something similar in my basemant. Thank you and merry christmas
Good video, Jathan, That's funny you snuck than one right in there.
That was all very interesting. Info on several future projects. Great, the Kill A Watt is back. I am enjoying the knock off one you had on the show.
That old brass pipe would make some excellent vise soft jaws
😂🤣😅😂great joke….I also despise plumbing…that infernal drip 🤬…really liked the look inside your tester I get about that far then just scratch my head at all those little gizmos in there …what da hill do they do…🤔🤔…🖖🏻
I think I was quite harsh on those Ring doorbells earlier 😂 I tend to naturally want to move away from the crowd... Maybe that's why I feel how I feel about cities.
The ring is a decent entry level unit but my WiFi needs boosting. 🫣😂
Great episode, John!👍🏼
Great job on the LCD screen. I thought there is no way a recovery would be possible. Now for the PEX (and like you) I wouldn't trust it. I am sure, like you, I have heard horror stories of plastic pipe rupturing causing all sorts of water damage. I would be interested if they made a drain line version without the alarm pf high water pressure.
7:51 Does that PL-259 connector go out to an antenna on the roof? Would love to see a "Scoutcrafter Ham Radio 101" episode!
It originally went to a 20 meter dipole in my yard but I cut the tree down! 😂👍
@ScoutCrafter wow! Did you ever listen to or talk with anyone on the other side of the world? What other bands have you used other than 20 meter? Thanks for the reply!
Interesting thing about pex is that the pipes can freeze and they won't burst. It's a must have upstate if you rely on heat tape and working electricity.
According to President Biden today, he said that there's only "one drone and we're following it." Wow, that makes me feel better.
😂😂😂😂
Scout. screw that CRC dreck. In my day, I've tried a few contact cleaners. DE-OXIT is the ONLY one worthy of the name. It's not cheap, but it's worth every penny. It comes in an aerosol or liquid; I've used them both and I prefer the aerosol. The drones? Well your sweetheart warned you about buying that aluminum Skelator head, didn't she?
Yes! I have it! Update on Friday!
Whoda thought the screen would be that simple of a fix, I tell ya 😂 All good to go now for many more years.
Nice video. Merry Christmas.
Interesting subject on the pecs. How did it connect to the old pipe?
I bought a thread to PEX adapter! It screwed into the coupling and the PEX hooked right up! 😃👍
Suburban Chicago. Crook (cook) County here. I have lead pipe from the parkway valve to and through the basement floor up to the main shutoff valve then galvanized from there throughout the house. Lead is now outlawed and the village is trying to get grant money from the federal government to fund a replacement program. PEX is sold in all the big box stores but it’s very unclear if it is code approved. All my pipes are easily accessible and a complete replacement wouldn’t be hard labor wise. Anyway “ I use copper. It costs more because it saves money” - Cosmo Castorini
Tony- I don’t think anyone believes PEX is better but it’s so easy and affordable! Like PVC drains! I’ll never go back to metal drainage. 😃👍
I love PEX
I would consider using PEX in a non potable setting IE hydronic or grey water use ie. outdoor water. As for potable water I prefer copper or brass even with the extra work involved.
John, I was going to ask you if you saw one of those drones now i know. Do you have a telescope , I know you have that powerful spotlight
They move too fast for my telescopes but binoculars would work! 😃👍
How do you like the shark bite fittings?
I never used them but have seen them used on RUclips, some people love them some not so much. They can be a little pricey but they are quality made. 😃👍
John, are those real brass fittings or brass colored? They look "funny" colored? A dog with a hair lip goes "mark" "mark"
Troy- Yes- Most plumbing fittings use “Red” brass a different alloy than the common yellow brass we use in machinery. (More copper)
NYPD chief of detectives said they are using drones to solves crimes. They also used drones to help them search for the murder suspect of the CEO.
Living out in the country I have seen Pex get chewed into by rats and mice,, I'm sure it has its place.
Lol, If drones broken, send them to scoutcrafter for good fixing,sir...
The problem with any new plumbing system is that the short coming don't show up for 20 or 30 years. Example, who knew that CPVC would become brittle after about 20 years. Polybutylene piping was used extensively 30 or so years ago--now try to get homeowners insurance if you have any of it in you house--just sayin'. Hope PEX doesn't suffer same fate.
Absolutely true! You can’t ever judge a product at introduction. The true test of quality is time! 😃👍
Wait until you start figuring out ways to use the PEX other than for plumbing. Many neat uses. Almost endless. Use your imagination 👍🇺🇲👊
Pex definitely cuts down on the skill level needed to install. I would use it in a crawl space or a basement. Not sure if I'd want it in walls
Mitch, I feel exactly the same way! 😃👍
Yes we hate plumbing. Thanks John
Gotcha 👀👍👍🔩🔩
Boom 😂😂😂😂😂
@@MrBoom246 👀👀👍👍🔩🔩
Code enforcement is coming for you 😂
They better bring a new violation book and a fresh pen! 😂
I hate those Rubber buttons on remotes and heating/AC controls. They allways wear out.
👍🏻
Lmao!!!
No thanks...I`ll stick to copper as long as it i available.
Oh man god bless the dad jokes so funny great show love the
Pex looks like a great system very interesting what going on with the drones
At the moment they are looking for something for sure god bless take care 🇳🇿🇺🇸🇮🇱🗽🪖🦅45-47DJT