As a professional plumber of 20 years, this tool is indispensable. I use it a lot and is great for emergency repairs. No need to wait around for pipes to drain. Love this tool!
@@eddye4833 if you're doing a lot of copper and aren't working by the hour it's a lifesaver I bought 4 sets of a different brand for my guys to have. Spent almost 5 grand but after they got the hang of it they paid for themselves in a week.
I've used the Pro Press system, at my job, since 2002. You cannot beat it! I recall a particular incident, where I had to replace a leaking 1.25 gate valve, in a system where the water could NOT be shut down. I cut the valve off (took a huge soaking) slid the new valve onto the pipe, in the open position, so it wouldn't blow-off, and crimped that puppy on...shut valve, cleaned up water...DONE!
Great story i was there too however i was not able to clean it properly as the water was under pressure at 80psi. So my shut off valve leaked until the superintendent came and shut the water off 2 days later. How did you clean and deburr the copper (assuming it is copper) while its bursting water all over? Thank you friend
Architect here. We use this system in Germany for 25+ years on copper, stainless steel and galvanized steel piping. Never encountered a leak and very easy to use.
Pressfittings on steel pipes have been used in Europe since 1969. Pressfittings for steel are similar to this made of copper. Viega adapted the steel pressfittings to copper in 1995.
Are you using Viega or? I have used once Hertz fittings and I am not been satisfied with it. You can remove metal part from fittings and make mistake during pressing. I was using it on alupex. In Croatia I was doing with alupex but in England because of rats I'm using copper.
As a professional plumber of 20 years, this tool is indispensable. I use it a lot and is great for emergency repairs. No need to wait around for pipes to drain. Love this tool!
your plumbing videos are absolutely the best on the Internet! I really appreciate all the hard work and dedication to detail you do for these presentations.
I just purchased a Rothenberger ProPress. The experience has been 110% positive. The very first job was 1-1/4" copper in a high rise building where the water just wouldn't stop coming. I got soaked from head to toe doing the job as the water poured out from above, but, the job got done! (the building manager said the last plumber just stood around for four hours and waited for the building to drain, which added $600 to his bill, and at the end-of-the day the pinholes still weren't fixed) I installed two Tees and two couplings in about 30mins which is 1/4 of the time it would take to solder. The only drawback so far is my supplier keeps very low inventory of Propress fittings for 1" and up. Hopefully that changes as they continue to catch on in Canada.
That's awesome, I love hearing positive stories like yours. If you do alot of that stuff, it'll pay for itself after 2 or 3 jobs, than it's easy money for you ;)
Top notch video- the cutaway shots, the detail views, the ‘mistake’ shots, the repeated connections, sound on !, ,lots of examples too. You are natural teacher sir.
Couple of tips for these Pro Press tools: If your battery dies mid press, absolutely do not move the tool while changing the battery. If the tool moves even a little, and you try to press again, that fitting will leak. For your marks for slip couplings, take either a stop coupling or a 90 to get your mark then press your slip to that mark. And dont press connections too close together, especially 1 1/2 pipe and up. The press actually crimps the pipe as well and if you press fittings too close together it'll have a higher chance of leaking.
1/2" to 2" it is important to keep the hexagonal deformation on the press. 2-1/2" to 4" it doesn't matter. Milwaukee won't feather and will reset, Rigid tools you can feather the press
Milwaukee pro-press kit $2000 for 1 inch to 1/2 inch pipes! Out of reach for most of us weekend warriors with a leaky pipe or a new bathroom! Your video's are the best!
It is spendy but considering what plumbers charge it looks like if you crimp about 24 fittings this tool will pay for itself. You can also buy a used one and then sell it, you might even make money on the tool.
If you think you may have more than a couple of water pipe jobs around the house over the lifetime of owning your home, it will pay for itself. And you have a very valuable tool left over when the work is done if you want to recoup most of the cost.
It's great if you're a plumbing/ HVAC contractor. It's a huge savings in labor costs. Being a mechanical insulation contractor, though, these systems increase my overall material and labor costs by 12-15% .(Mostly labor) Every fitting has to be oversized. On soldered piping the pipe insulation would squeeze right over the coupling fitting. (Every 10 feet) on mains. Now we have to oversize the insulation by one size to fit over the fitting decreasing output substantially. On chilled water systems these oversized fittings need to painted with a vapor barrier mastic to prevent sweating. To all you contractors out there, take care of your subs.
I’m a plumbing and heating apprentice and studying level 3. I’ve never done pressfit looks ok but I’d still prefer solder but my new employers use this method. Good video to learn from 👍
I use to work at a place where we repaired Hot Water/Heating systems.. We had a Pro Press and I really was impressed. It works well in tight quarters. Also Is was it was great when there was water in the lines .. Downside is the price.. But the company paid for it. All in all I think it’s awesome
Great video. I use a REMS AKKU Press. The 1/2" inch (15mm) fittings are competitively priced against other fittings such as pushfit, but the price jumps when the size is 3/4" (22mm). Not a tool for tight areas such as under kitchen sinks, but REMS sell a 45 degree head to allow better access. A very neat finish which is secure and leak free, with no heat required.
As a plumbing contractor for over 20 years, I can tell you this tool (I prefer the M12, it's smaller), can be a life saver. However, like any other tool it's NOT the silver bullet. Fittings DO leak when not crimped properly and many times you cannot get the tool in tight spots, also the very first fitting I crimped leaked! The tool was brand new and didn't work properly, so I had to have it serviced. It would have costs $826.00!! But luckily Milwaukee fixed under warranty at NO cost. Overall, I love it, but still have to solder sometimes.
"$826.00!!" for servicing the tool?See this people?This is why I rag on milwaukee.On top of all of the money this poor guy spent on that milwaukee press tool it failed him and if it hadn't been because the press tool was still under warranty this poor guy would have had to spend "826.00!!" that he probably needs for other things such as food and such.
Nelson Echevarria Poor guy? He must not be that poor if he can afford a specialty tool like a propress. He invests in his future and his livelihood. With the time and money that tool makes and saves you, you can fork out $826.00 It’s not chump change but it’s not a lot in the great scheme of things. It is BS how it failed on the first use but nothing is perfect and the percentage that this happens to must be very low.
@@alexveitia6909 Yes,I say "poor guy" because what if the company hadn't given the guy a new press tool or fixed the one he bought from them in the first place?As far as "With the money that tool makes and saves you,you can fork out $826.00" that is debateable because I recently bought not one but two press tools from China,the first press tool cost me $1,120.00 and the second press tool which is more compact and comparable to rigid's rp-200b which is the one that I wanted in the first place cost me $910.00.I'm a home owner but back in the day when I was young I learned plumbing from licensed contractors and licensed plumbers.Now I do my own home repairs if and when ever possible and I also occasionally do repairs for people that I know.My point which you clearly missed is how insanely expensive milwaukee and rigid sell their press tools for,have you taken a look at how insanely expensive the press jaws are as well?I have used my press tools already and I will say that the press tools are a great asset and time saver but there is no reason what so ever for companies such as milwaukee and rigid to fleece people especially when they have their press tools made in China then have the press tools shipped here to the U.S. and rip people off.rigid press tools come with a lifetime warranty but the lifetime warranty comes with humongus catches and considering that the press tool costs $2,500.00 and up plus how insanely expensive extra press jaws are I call total bullshit on both rigid and milwaukee."Oh,I have milwaukee/rigid press tool."So big fucking whoop what?Do you think your pipes give a shit what brand press tool you have or where you bought the press tool from?"Oh,you have to buy viega press fittings.",another horse drawn cart of pure unadulterated bullshit because I bought JW copper press fittings and they're just as good as the "viega copper press fittings" without the extra "viega" cost.I learned long ago and the hard way that expensive doesn't always mean that you get the most for your hard earned money.You mention SharkBite and I'm glad that you did because although SharkBite fittings are good I would not trust SharkBite fittings enough to install them in a wall then close the wall up.Maybe the SharkBite company has changed their policy but at no time have I ever read or heard that SharkBite fittings are meant as a permanent repair solution.Thanks for sharing.
as a bonus, You can turn the propress fittings BUT if you do more than a 1/4 turn you must recrimp It is recommended to keep certain distances between 2 fittings ( refer to the viega specs ) It is recommended to keep a certain distance between the propress joint and the copper weld you will do if you do any ( flush valves, soldered 3/8" valves ) refer to the viega specs It is recommended to crimp couplings on 2 different axis as to try to keep the copper line as straight as possible. AND take your time, sometimes in small areas YOU must precrimp certain fittings or else you wont have access with the propress gun to crimp them.
@robpendola5888 if I remembrr correctly it's past 1/4 turn. It was written in the ridgid / viega manual . Sometimes there is a slight movement in the crimp which is normal.
@@TheBostonstapler If you purposely rotate it,then you have to repress Viega ProPress fittings every time. Unlike MegaPress Viega fittings which are a natural swing joint. Never rotate a ProPress fitting under pressure, don't put a wrench on the fittings, and keep that hexagonal press shape. I can't speak for other press fittings, only Viega which is ProPress. I am a technical trainer for Viega
@robpendola5888 I understand, but it happens once in a while the fitting even when crimped, there is a tiny bit of movement in it. What I'm saying is that this is normal.
Great video. DIY homeowner here and I'm about to pull the trigger on one of these for two upcoming hybrid water heater installations that involve repiping. Expensive it is but it will save me a lot of headaches and stress... DIY not to save money but to do it right.
The tool is expensive but considering what plumbers charge its actually one of the easiest tools to pay for itself. One or two jobs and its paid for, that and you can buy a used one and then sell it for what you paid. Or just rent one if available.
We have soldered copper plumbing that is almost 125 years old in our old farm hours....no problems. I wonder if those rubber O-rings will do as well....
That is neither here nor there i have had soldered joints leak after 5 years and i have sharkbites that have not leaked in 10. so there is always room for problems is all i am saying. You can always get a bad joint with solder press or push to connect.
Under the list of pros & cons , you overlooked 1 very important factor. Safety! Transportation of flammable gas bottles incorrectly can be hazardous, if not fatal if not done correctly. I still remember news worthy articles of plumbing vans exploding like a land mine in my local news paper when I was an aprentice , being pointed out by my father , as he read the paper on a Sunday morning. Lets not take that for granted.
Been using these for 10 years and swear by them, had a handful of leaks over thousands of presses, obviously takes the skill out of it but when you're pressing up to 108mm it's nice to have that peace of mind.
Ive had my propress for 1 year already and absolutely love it. You don't need to calibrate it frequently, and I can use it while water is on if I need to. I can just press on a ball valve, close the valve, and good to go. No leak, everything is great. Spent $3k for all my attachments, and tool. And any issues, Milwaukee will be able to replace or fix for free.
Buddy of mine just came today to fix some copper pipes in front of my house he used this same method I was blown away how fast everything was done makes me want to get into plumbing 😂
A plumber came to do some emergency furnace work in my basement. His sharp eye spotted a bad copper fitting on my water heater, which I would have normally done myself, but he was there so I asked him to do it. He used the Ridgid version. The repair went so fast I didn't believe he could have been done. So he showed me the ProPress and it blew me away. I had never heard of it. I wanted one, but when I saw the prices I almost passed out. But I did find a hand tool, a hydraulic press for 1", 3/4", 1/2" for the DYI guys. Got good reviews. So if you're still drooling over the Milwaukee or Dewalt, like I am, the hydraulic hand tool smoothed me out like my morning Oxycontin. But I'm still dreaming that Milwaukee or Dewalt will give me one of theirs, like the DEWALT DCE200M2K 20V.
I absolutely love pro press. I use it mostly on commercial property’s for the simple fact that most business can’t go long with out water. It’s such a time saver. If at all possible can you do a review on pro pressing gas lines? Thanks and thanks again for another awesome video.
Kid from germany here: Im working since 6 months and in any application/construction sotw we habe never ever seen anybody not use propress. I asked why we dont solder things and they told me that in germany we dont solder things since more than 10 years
Great video. I'm just a homeowner, but seriously considering buying one. It's expensive, but could pay for itself in one or two jobs and you still have a tool with huge value left over.
Nice, informative video...like your others. One point you don't address that other videos skip, too: The cleaning of the outside of the pipe. While I guess it's not necessary, I'd still feel better if the outer surface of the adjoining pipe contacting the fitting was wiped down with SOMETHING before the rubber mates with it. Certainly couldn't hurt and wouldn't take all that long, either. Strange.
i've had to replace leaking copper fittings and had to drain the whole system on 2 different occasions. the water just kept flowing and flowing and flowing, lol. not saying i would shell out the money for this very expensive tool if i had to do it again, but it's great to know there is something like this available out there in case i need it for a non-emergency or a big job that pays for it, thank you for making the video!
As DIYer I love these new tools and fitting coming out. I enjoy taking on plumbing projects but always hated soldering. I'm not bad at it but sometimes the work area is too tight and seems too dangerous for a blow torch. Hopefully the price comes down after a couple years. Great video!
thank you for SHOWING what it does. That other plumbing youtuber (Roger Wakefield) just talked about it and never showed how it works, just kept the thing in its case, and blabbed on and on.
propress is a godsend for commercial work. Just pressed in a 3 inch valve for a hotel in no time. If i had to solder it would have been a pain the ass overhead 12 feet up.
If you are just doing a few fittings and want to keep it simple just use swagelok or yor-lok tube fittings. Fittings are a little expensive but the ease of installing is very nice. You don't need fancy equipment - just some wrenches.
As a plumber for a day... yes.. I am a master plumber.... I love this. In fact, I bought the Dewalt Expansion tool and all uponor fittings and now uponor makes these press fittings so I bought some to convert from copper to pex before I rip it all out and just run pex from the main line (when I get to that, I am not sure but I want to replumb the house with a tankless heater and manifold)
Wow, your video quality is absolutely monstrously gigantic. Your attention to detail is huge, your informativeness is astounding. 8:25 what's that big grey thing?
I love the tool It’s not for everything, but is a life saver in certain situations Has gotten me home at a reasonable hour several days by being able to transition to pex to temporary the water on for a customer after my guys chip through a line at the end of a day. Always happens on the ones the customer is living in the remodel
Never seen one, not that I'm a plumber anyway. I'm convinced they could clamp that using a hand bolt-cutter type device rather than a $$$$ battery tool. Not like you couldn't squeeze copper when you could break hardened steel. Just a thought, personally I'd prefer to solder fittings.
Excellent presentation. I had heard about this new system. I have sweated many pipes and made every mistake mentioned. The verbal and video presentation was clear and about the best youtube learning video I have ever seen.
We used this on 4" for a bit of the mains on a hotel we did. Pretty cool stuff. PS you can rent the tool for large jobs and return it when you are done.
In NYC we still use copper lines as per city regulations. However im seeing more of these crimp systems being implemented. I'm still a fan of soldered connection, but you can't argue with the speed and convenience of a crimp fitting.
Just got my m12 press tool yesterday. Where do you like to get your fittings? I'm looking for an online source where I can buy in bulk obviously. Thanks for the video!
Awesome video man I been really interested in this sytem, just recently got my m12 Milwaukee pex expander and really love that think ill stick to that for now but this definitely would be really handy for certain jobs that have to be done in copper.
I wish we had these in the past. I was installing a new water main at my parent's house and the valve at the street wouldn't stop leaking. Trying to get a new pipe soldered in before the whole thing fills up with water was a nightmare. This would have made it so easy.
This is where Sharkbite is actually useful. If it leaks in 10 years, does it matter? Nope. I don't use sharkbite in a house where it's inaccessible, but outside at a valve? For sure.
I use a Uponor tool with press heads depending on each use; Uponor for flex pipe, viega or vsh for copper, bonfix for copper to flex etc. Works great and is a lot less expensive to buy. The brand Uponor is a sister brand of Makita.
I'm not quite sure what you're on about, Uponor is a Finnish publicly traded company that manufactures pipe systems, and is in no way related to Makita. Uponor might have tools made by Makita rebranded for their use.
It would have been very helpful if you had given a web link or price as some sort of indicator because "a lot less expensive to buy" makes no sense without some sort of reference point for comparison.If you earn $250,000.00 per year and I only earn say $50,000.00 per year then your phrase "a lot less expensive to buy" is not going to mean the same thing to me as it does to you.I Iooked up that "Uponor" and from what I saw as far as the pricing of their press tools they are just as insanely priced as Milwaukee and Rigid press tools are.Look at this,for one set of 1/2" uponor replacement inserts they want $225.95.: www.supplyhouse.com/Wirsbo-Uponor-D6270500-1-2-Replacement-Insert-for-MLC-Mulitpress-Manual-Press-Tool-10972000-p that's just for one 1/2" set of inserts,and those inserts are only for a manual pressing tool,if they charge that much for a set of 1/2" inserts I'd hate to see how much they charge for the manual press tool itself,are they smoking crack-cocaine?To Milwaukee's credit they only charge $175.99 for a Milwaukee 1/2" m18 standard copper press jaw.: www.supplyhouse.com/Milwaukee-49-16-2650-1-2-M18-Standard-Copper-Press-Jaw You must be earing plenty big money to be able to call any of that "a lot less expensive to buy".
Pro press is a great system. There's only 2 things I don't like about it. Number 1 is that once it's pressed, it's not going anywhere, unlike solder where you can just heat it up and knock it apart if you need to. Number 2 is that the tool can be very awkward or sometimes impossible to use in certain places and you have to press some stuff separately which can make putting it together a real pain in the ass. But over all it's a great system that saves a ton of time.
This video was really well done, thank you. For me I will stick to solder. I am old school I guess. Solder is a molecular weld, not friction and o-ring. O-rings are not considered permanent seals in engineering(permanent meaning it will last the life of the copper). A molecular weld is considered permanent. I am an engineer with >20 years experience.
Great vid, had never seen these before until last year. A contractor installed them and there were 6 very very small leaks which sealed themselves after a few weeks and remain dry. Contractor was called back but said that sometimes some water "shelters" in the fittings :-)
When the tool asks for "calibration" all that means is that it's time to change the hydraulic fluid that the press tool uses along with the hydraulic seals.It's the same thing with quality hydraulic jacks which recommend replacing the hydraulic fluid and hydraulic seals after a specified number of uses the only difference being that quality hydraulic jacks do not have any lights to indicate when it is time to replace the hydraulic fluid and hydraulic seals and for that you have to send the press tool back to milwaukee and pay $250.00 to $500.00 plus the cost of shipping.It's all a gimmick plain and simple.
I save enough money with labor savings that we seldom use solder. It does gas piping so fast, that I save a week of labor on each project. Getting ready to put one on each truck that I own. George Dixon, Dixon Plumbing, Inc
Been using ProPress system for years on copper fuel runs in the gas industry. All fittings used are marked in yellow for gas. So for no leaks after running miles of copper lines. Time will tell how long the O-rings last. I've worked in the gas utility business for over 35 years and I can tell you I have seen companies come and go based on the idea of the next best invention or product. In other words one failure and one lawsuit and a system like this could be history.
I wonder if there's any system similar to this, but instead of the fittings being preloaded with a rubber O-ring, they are preloaded with solder and flux. Then you slip a battery operated tool over it that heats up the fitting to the right temperature for the right amount of time to ensure a good joint.
The closest thing that resembles that are Yorkshire fittings. For the heating part, you'd need a torch or on of those heating element specifically made for solder to heat it up. Here is the link to the fitting: bit.ly/39V2Vmh Here is the link to the heating tool: bit.ly/38VNAAw
@@Got2Learn WOW!!!I remember that tool from years ago,I was thinking of buying one at the time but the tool was not widely available here in the US.It would have been a great tool to use I think being that there is no flame involved. www.parksupplyofamerica.com/Antex-USA-Inc.-PipeMaster-Pro-Copper-Pipe-Flameless-Soldering-Tool?msclkid=de6e5d035b1d134b5353039fcd5dea5e The tool isn't as good as the tool can be because instead of using a set screws to attach the dies to the heating prongs on the tool the company opted to use threads which allows the dies to loosen.Set screws and a flattened side on the tool's heating prongs and the dies would definitely stay in place rather than working themselves loose.I would definitely buy and use the tool if the company ever decides to change the dies from the screw on type to dies that attach with a set screw because anyone that has used soldering irons knows full well that when the soldering iron tips get loose the tips no longer conduct heat like the soldering tips are supposed to.
Home Depot sell them back around 2010 for a few years I have gone to a few houses where they were used and they were leaking Had to cut them all out. I cut one out and saw the solder didn’t complete capillary attraction they stopped selling them they are a piece of junk I believe mueller streamline made the fittings
Looking at this I really wonder if a good old copper compression fitting will not have a longer life.... And also does not require a hot work permit. I would use those only for copper repair, for anything new, I am an Uponor Propex Expander guy.....
@@bjornmarley5670 Depends on the quality: The FORGE™ range of DZR brass screwed, flared & compression fittings are perfect for potable water, natural & LP gas applications. All fittings are fully compliant to AS3688, carry the Watermark approval and are backed by the FORGE™ 25 Year Lifetime warranty.
I never realized how bad i was at soldering water pipes, until i had to solder caps from removing hot water coil. Definitely failed on soldering, so i pulled out company's propress. Lol!! Hvacr tech. 0 leaks from brazing.
Now that you mention it I'm going to have to install ball valves,unions and a bypass line from my hot water coil pipe because the hot water coil is piped to the cold water inlet on my water heater so if my hot water coil ever gets clogged I'm going to need ball valves to shut off the water to the hot water coil,unions to disconnect the hot water coil and a bypass line to divert the water from the hot water coil directly to my water heater until I can order a new hot water coil for my boiler.Gee,isn't owning a home loads of fun?NOT!!!On the bright side,if you can call it that,a new hot water coil for my boiler would only cost me $250.00 (last time I checked.) plus the shipping and tax,that's if I do the work myself.If I call a contractor or plumber to do the work I don't even want to discuss it or think about it because it gives me a terrible headache and a big pain in the wallet.
This is why I'm getting out of plumbing after 25 years. There's simply no finesse. Thank god I've picked up enough skills along the way to shift to a General Builder
@@Sc-jf3yk At least you have more control over the quality of your work and methods instead of shirts controlling practices. The future of natural gas is another factor for me ;)
viega guarantees 50 years, the life of the o-ring, depending on the job, you can have a yellow o-ring for gas or different o-ring materials for oil lines or dairy products or whatever chemicals
@@rsilvers129 we exactly I just put a tap for a fridge freezer in 6 joints soldered and one tap shut off valve. Took me less than an hour to cut the pipes, solder, screw to wall and test. I even connected the fridge even though I didn't quote for that. I'm not sure how pressing would have save me much time. One joint would have been impossible to press under the sink.
Speaking from a Master Plumber/Gasfitter from Australia, one major concern I see with this video is this. Viega fittings with a Milwaukee press tool, sure it practically works but you really should be promoting the specified press tool for the product you are using by the manufacturer - Viega press tool and heads for viega fittings being used. An alternative branded press tool than what is specified for the product is an instant product warrantee void which could be a painful experience if a joint failure on a job is the cause of a fire with gas or extensive flooding on a property. Another aspect to keep in mind for people using press tools is that not every tool is compatible with every press fitting even if they work. Ultimately braze welding has its hangups but the old ways are a preferable better end result.
as an european plumber these videos are like a timecapsule back to my apprenticeship in the early 2000's. half of what he's doing is either completely illegal (edit. illegal where i live. I'm sure it is up to code where he lives) or obsolete :) Seems like a nice guy though, and good at his job
I just lucked out an picked up a M18 Press kit for $729 on clearance before taxes at Home Depot!!! It was on clearance from another store that couldn’t sale it🤙🏽🤙🏽
Great informative video. As a DIYer, I might consider going with this style fitting if I were installing a large number of fittings. However, as I only need to perform a couple of coupling installations, the propress is cost prohibitive, and I'll be going with the shark bite max.
I'm not a plumber, but the longevity of the o-ring would worry me in any work I had done in my house. It's similar to a compression fitting, using a tool instead of a nut. I wonder if a variant just using the copper fitting itself would work? It would have to be redesigned to have a ring that could be compressed onto the pipe, or maybe use a separate copper olive.
A lot of people have the same opinion as you, but little do people know, is that EPDM o-rings have been used on submarines in the military for years now and they are also used on every car's braking system, so we basically depend on these o-rings every day without even knowing it. This is why Pro Press fittings are reliable and are ok to use, there should be no worries. If you soldered the joint for example, it would also start leaking after 40-50 years, just like the o-ring, they are just quicker to install :)
@@Got2Learn A properly soldered joint will last the lifetime of the pipe. EDPM is petroleum based and will last about 50+ years...maybe. These o-rings are EDPM. Then again, copper pipe should last 50+ years. So it's a wash. Something will give.
I bought a manual press tool from iCrimp. Plan on using it to place hydronic loop in a place where I would rather not use a torch. I’ll see how it goes. I have to pre-fit the install and plan the sequence of crimps in such a way that I have the space to use the tool. The same problem exists with the power crimp too. I see Rigid offers an accessory kit that includes a special set of ring clamps and a special jaw that allows for work in tight spaces. If you’re paying $2k for the power tool what’s another $300 for the accessory kit. And, you have to admit, spending several thousand on the proper tools sure beats burning down the house.
Pardon me if I missed this, but to me the #1 most important pro of this tool is the ability to work in very cramped tight spaces. Cutting and especially sweating pipes in tight spaces is very hazardous and often impossible. This tool makes cramped joints and angles a snap.
Firstly, I live and work in northern Minnesota. It’s frozen most of the year. I do like how quick and convenient the press system can be. I don’t like the price. Most importantly, as a land lord, and housing contractor, I hate this system. Every house I’ve had or worked on with this system has had pipe failures. Either frozen pipes that burst (makes hydronic heat nearly impossible to fix) or more often than not, incorrect installation, both scenarios make my job particularly difficult. I prefer either copper with sweat joints (solder) or pex home run style.
@Don Caudle If people weren't such skin flints and would install electric baseboard heaters with thermostats they wouldn't end up with frozen burst pipes in their basements.The winter before last we had to have our boiler replaced because the boiler was in really bad shape even though I did my best to keep the old boiler in good condition.When we first bought this house one of the first things that I did was to install a six foot electric baseboard heater with a thermostat in my boiler room in case the boiler ever ran out of oil or malfunctioned and the baseboard heater came in handy and works like a true champ.The boiler replacement took from 7am to 10:30pm and the baseboard heater kept the basement warm while the boiler technicians replaced the old boiler.Frozen burst pipes cost you not only for the repair of the burst pipes but for the water damage caused by the burst water pipes as well.I keep my electric baseboard heater set at 60F and I have not had any problems or huge electric bills for the times the electric baseboard heater had to work in order to keep my basement from freezing.Work smarter,not harder.
I just left Montana where I was a maintenance tech for 12 years. It gets cold there too. I’ve noticed that crimp fittings retain small amounts of water, even when lines are blown out, as in irrigation. They burst in this scenario. I’ve always sweat soldered connections. But I wonder if the crimp connections hold small amounts of water outside the copper, retained from condensation. This would cause bursting. Shark bites are worthless in the north. Compression fittings are expensive but are bulletproof.
@Niek Vels I agree, however, Mother Nature often wins. When the temp outside is -45° to as cold as -65° these 100 year old houses have difficulty resisting the transition of heat. This would be a big difference if they were 2x6 framing and had 9” of exterior insulation with the 2x6 insulated walls. But that’s not the case. We do what we can with what we have available. Press fitting just don’t work well here.
You have a crooked press at 9:33. Also forgot to mention that there are (expensive) 1/4 turn valves available from Viega with ProPress female ends. This is vital on torch free jobs where you need to install shutoff valves.
I just had a spigot replaced and the plumber used these fittings to come from the riser. I had NEVER heard of these and was only aware of soldering for my all copper house piping. He was in and out VERY quickly. But I am still a little bit concerned about the O ring wearing out. I guess only time will tell and lawyers, if or when they deteriorate. It might be good to come up with a metal O ring material that is exactly the right size and soft enough or flexible to 'weld' to the pipe when under pressure and crimped. Check with Area 51 which might have it.
Outsider point-of-view here. I don't think any of the pro's need to feel threatened in any way by this technology. If I were a plumber I would more than likely own this machine. It looks like a reliable way to get the job done quickly, which in turn allows you guys more time to enjoy being FILTHY RICH!! My guess is that soldering is not going away anytime soon, and is a skill/art that a real plumber will need to be good at for at least the next 75-100 years. Nail guns haven't put the carpenter out of business, and they still have to know how to swing a hammer! -
You can say that again,I learned to solder copper pipe from licensed contractors and plumbers that I had the honor and the priviledge to work for and learn from when I was sixteen years old back in NYC,I am now fiftynine years old and I still solder copper pipe if and when ever it is convenient and safe to do so.Where it is not convenient and/or safe to solder copper pipe I now own and use copper pipe press tools,I get the best of both worlds.Even licensed seasoned plumbers that own and use press tools say that soldering is a necessary skill that every plumber must know,what does that tell us?
The only soldering I've seen recently, was to the new valve they install, & most important part was to remove the pieces & parts that the heat would otherwise melt. Then reassemble the valve. All our joints are half-inch pex , or half-inch existing copper fitting, but our kit also has the three-quarter inch heads. We NEVER leave this piece out where it could be stolen, BTW.
As a professional plumber of 20 years, this tool is indispensable. I use it a lot and is great for emergency repairs. No need to wait around for pipes to drain. Love this tool!
So are you recommended to buy this tool
@@eddye4833 yup
@@eddye4833 yes
@@eddye4833 if you're doing a lot of copper and aren't working by the hour it's a lifesaver
I bought 4 sets of a different brand for my guys to have. Spent almost 5 grand but after they got the hang of it they paid for themselves in a week.
What do you think about shark bite?
I've used the Pro Press system, at my job, since 2002. You cannot beat it!
I recall a particular incident, where I had to replace a leaking 1.25 gate valve, in a system where the water could NOT be shut down. I cut the valve off (took a huge soaking) slid the new valve onto the pipe, in the open position, so it wouldn't blow-off, and crimped that puppy on...shut valve, cleaned up water...DONE!
👌👌👌
Great story i was there too however i was not able to clean it properly as the water was under pressure at 80psi. So my shut off valve leaked until the superintendent came and shut the water off 2 days later. How did you clean and deburr the copper (assuming it is copper) while its bursting water all over? Thank you friend
Architect here. We use this system in Germany for 25+ years on copper, stainless steel and galvanized steel piping. Never encountered a leak and very easy to use.
Pressfittings on steel pipes have been used in Europe since 1969. Pressfittings for steel are similar to this made of copper. Viega adapted the steel pressfittings to copper in 1995.
Are you using Viega or? I have used once Hertz fittings and I am not been satisfied with it. You can remove metal part from fittings and make mistake during pressing. I was using it on alupex. In Croatia I was doing with alupex but in England because of rats I'm using copper.
eaglevision993 hey thanks! Architect here, learning about using this system for my own home. Very glad to get your note of confidence.
Please I want come to America to study plumbing who are know you any cuminaty college in usa
@@maradona-xf4mc NO . Stay where you are .
As a professional plumber of 20 years, this tool is indispensable. I use it a lot and is great for emergency repairs. No need to wait around for pipes to drain. Love this tool!
your plumbing videos are absolutely the best on the Internet! I really appreciate all the hard work and dedication to detail you do for these presentations.
Thanks a million Doug, really appreciate it 🤗
this guys a dork
The best and honest presentation .
I just purchased a Rothenberger ProPress. The experience has been 110% positive. The very first job was 1-1/4" copper in a high rise building where the water just wouldn't stop coming. I got soaked from head to toe doing the job as the water poured out from above, but, the job got done! (the building manager said the last plumber just stood around for four hours and waited for the building to drain, which added $600 to his bill, and at the end-of-the day the pinholes still weren't fixed) I installed two Tees and two couplings in about 30mins which is 1/4 of the time it would take to solder.
The only drawback so far is my supplier keeps very low inventory of Propress fittings for 1" and up. Hopefully that changes as they continue to catch on in Canada.
That's awesome, I love hearing positive stories like yours. If you do alot of that stuff, it'll pay for itself after 2 or 3 jobs, than it's easy money for you ;)
Problem is, their is a rubber o ring, that o ring will fail , rubber corrode. Now try getting that tool in tight places,
Rothenberger is propress?
Top notch video- the cutaway shots, the detail views, the ‘mistake’ shots, the repeated connections, sound on !, ,lots of examples too.
You are natural teacher sir.
Thank you for appreciating my videos! Thats what i do it for!
@@Got2Learn Thank you for great videos! Unlike others, your videos are always worth the time wasted on RUclips commercials :)
I agree top notch cut away and examples
Couple of tips for these Pro Press tools:
If your battery dies mid press, absolutely do not move the tool while changing the battery. If the tool moves even a little, and you try to press again, that fitting will leak.
For your marks for slip couplings, take either a stop coupling or a 90 to get your mark then press your slip to that mark.
And dont press connections too close together, especially 1 1/2 pipe and up. The press actually crimps the pipe as well and if you press fittings too close together it'll have a higher chance of leaking.
All good advice here, thanks a lot for your input!!!
1/2" to 2" it is important to keep the hexagonal deformation on the press. 2-1/2" to 4" it doesn't matter. Milwaukee won't feather and will reset, Rigid tools you can feather the press
About a year ago I rented this tool from a local company to use on a commercial system. It worked great and I would recommend it.
Absolutely!
Thanks
Milwaukee pro-press kit $2000 for 1 inch to 1/2 inch pipes! Out of reach for most of us weekend warriors with a leaky pipe or a new bathroom! Your video's are the best!
With the cost of plumbers in my area, it will pay for itself in a couple of jobs!
It is spendy but considering what plumbers charge it looks like if you crimp about 24 fittings this tool will pay for itself. You can also buy a used one and then sell it, you might even make money on the tool.
If you think you may have more than a couple of water pipe jobs around the house over the lifetime of owning your home, it will pay for itself. And you have a very valuable tool left over when the work is done if you want to recoup most of the cost.
the fact that you can use it on a line full of water is the biggest selling point imo... great for repair work
I agree completely with you, but I would never use this anywhere that has to be 100% solid, I feel like these pipes can work their way loose. IMO
It's great if you're a plumbing/ HVAC contractor. It's a huge savings in labor costs. Being a mechanical insulation contractor, though, these systems increase my overall material and labor costs by 12-15% .(Mostly labor) Every fitting has to be oversized. On soldered piping the pipe insulation would squeeze right over the coupling fitting. (Every 10 feet) on mains. Now we have to oversize the insulation by one size to fit over the fitting decreasing output substantially. On chilled water systems these oversized fittings need to painted with a vapor barrier mastic to prevent sweating. To all you contractors out there, take care of your subs.
Great point that’s commonly overlooked
I’m a plumbing and heating apprentice and studying level 3. I’ve never done pressfit looks ok but I’d still prefer solder but my new employers use this method. Good video to learn from 👍
Congrats! Yeah ProPress is slowly taking the lead but a lot of companies still solder their copper, but it's good to know how to do both, cheers!
How long do the o-rings last?
I use to work at a place where we repaired Hot Water/Heating systems.. We had a Pro Press and I really was impressed. It works well in tight quarters. Also Is was it was great when there was water in the lines .. Downside is the price.. But the company paid for it. All in all I think it’s awesome
💯💯💯
Been using the "Mega-press" for BIP about 5yrs now. So fast, easy prep for the helper, and i dont have to lug a threader onto a rooftop!
Amazing product, gonna make a video about it this summer 🤘
Like these videos. Very informative, educational and always to the point. No excessive narration or filler.
My pleasure man, glad you liked it, don't forget to subscribe and share, it helps a lot :)
Great video. I use a REMS AKKU Press. The 1/2" inch (15mm) fittings are competitively priced against other fittings such as pushfit, but the price jumps when the size is 3/4" (22mm). Not a tool for tight areas such as under kitchen sinks, but REMS sell a 45 degree head to allow better access. A very neat finish which is secure and leak free, with no heat required.
Yes indeed, not for under sink applications but great for so many other things, specially with that 45 degree adaptor ;)
As a plumbing contractor for over 20 years, I can tell you this tool (I prefer the M12, it's smaller), can be a life saver. However, like any other tool it's NOT the silver bullet. Fittings DO leak when not crimped properly and many times you cannot get the tool in tight spots, also the very first fitting I crimped leaked! The tool was brand new and didn't work properly, so I had to have it serviced. It would have costs $826.00!! But luckily Milwaukee fixed under warranty at NO cost. Overall, I love it, but still have to solder sometimes.
Yeah Vinny, it has it's ups and downs, but when you need it, it's fun to have ;) thx for passing by ;)
"$826.00!!" for servicing the tool?See this people?This is why I rag on milwaukee.On top of all of the money this poor guy spent on that milwaukee press tool it failed him and if it hadn't been because the press tool was still under warranty this poor guy would have had to spend "826.00!!" that he probably needs for other things such as food and such.
@@nelsonechevarria7009 I know right? You can buy a new one with no jaws or battery for close to that price.
Nelson Echevarria Poor guy? He must not be that poor if he can afford a specialty tool like a propress. He invests in his future and his livelihood. With the time and money that tool makes and saves you, you can fork out $826.00
It’s not chump change but it’s not a lot in the great scheme of things. It is BS how it failed on the first use but nothing is perfect and the percentage that this happens to must be very low.
@@alexveitia6909 Yes,I say "poor guy" because what if the company hadn't given the guy a new press tool or fixed the one he bought from them in the first place?As far as "With the money that tool makes and saves you,you can fork out $826.00" that is debateable because I recently bought not one but two press tools from China,the first press tool cost me $1,120.00 and the second press tool which is more compact and comparable to rigid's rp-200b which is the one that I wanted in the first place cost me $910.00.I'm a home owner but back in the day when I was young I learned plumbing from licensed contractors and licensed plumbers.Now I do my own home repairs if and when ever possible and I also occasionally do repairs for people that I know.My point which you clearly missed is how insanely expensive milwaukee and rigid sell their press tools for,have you taken a look at how insanely expensive the press jaws are as well?I have used my press tools already and I will say that the press tools are a great asset and time saver but there is no reason what so ever for companies such as milwaukee and rigid to fleece people especially when they have their press tools made in China then have the press tools shipped here to the U.S. and rip people off.rigid press tools come with a lifetime warranty but the lifetime warranty comes with humongus catches and considering that the press tool costs $2,500.00 and up plus how insanely expensive extra press jaws are I call total bullshit on both rigid and milwaukee."Oh,I have milwaukee/rigid press tool."So big fucking whoop what?Do you think your pipes give a shit what brand press tool you have or where you bought the press tool from?"Oh,you have to buy viega press fittings.",another horse drawn cart of pure unadulterated bullshit because I bought JW copper press fittings and they're just as good as the "viega copper press fittings" without the extra "viega" cost.I learned long ago and the hard way that expensive doesn't always mean that you get the most for your hard earned money.You mention SharkBite and I'm glad that you did because although SharkBite fittings are good I would not trust SharkBite fittings enough to install them in a wall then close the wall up.Maybe the SharkBite company has changed their policy but at no time have I ever read or heard that SharkBite fittings are meant as a permanent repair solution.Thanks for sharing.
as a bonus,
You can turn the propress fittings BUT if you do more than a 1/4 turn you must recrimp
It is recommended to keep certain distances between 2 fittings ( refer to the viega specs )
It is recommended to keep a certain distance between the propress joint and the copper weld you will do if you do any ( flush valves, soldered 3/8" valves ) refer to the viega specs
It is recommended to crimp couplings on 2 different axis as to try to keep the copper line as straight as possible.
AND take your time, sometimes in small areas YOU must precrimp certain fittings or else you wont have access with the propress gun to crimp them.
always have to repress propress after rotation, every single time no matter what
@robpendola5888 if I remembrr correctly it's past 1/4 turn. It was written in the ridgid / viega manual . Sometimes there is a slight movement in the crimp which is normal.
@@TheBostonstapler If you purposely rotate it,then you have to repress Viega ProPress fittings every time. Unlike MegaPress Viega fittings which are a natural swing joint. Never rotate a ProPress fitting under pressure, don't put a wrench on the fittings, and keep that hexagonal press shape. I can't speak for other press fittings, only Viega which is ProPress. I am a technical trainer for Viega
@robpendola5888 I understand, but it happens once in a while the fitting even when crimped, there is a tiny bit of movement in it. What I'm saying is that this is normal.
You and Roger are the best plumbing video channels. Thank you for all the free content
👌👌👌🙏
Great video. DIY homeowner here and I'm about to pull the trigger on one of these for two upcoming hybrid water heater installations that involve repiping. Expensive it is but it will save me a lot of headaches and stress... DIY not to save money but to do it right.
Nothing wrong with DIY as long as you do the correct research and know when you are out of your depth
@@lewis94uk The only time you are out of your depth is when you give up.
The tool is expensive but considering what plumbers charge its actually one of the easiest tools to pay for itself. One or two jobs and its paid for, that and you can buy a used one and then sell it for what you paid. Or just rent one if available.
This is absolutely the best plumbing channel 👍
Wow, I feel very special right now :)
@@Got2Learn You do explain this, and most plumbing techniques, very well! 👍
This machine is really great
We have soldered copper plumbing that is almost 125 years old in our old farm hours....no problems. I wonder if those rubber O-rings will do as well....
That is neither here nor there i have had soldered joints leak after 5 years and i have sharkbites that have not leaked in 10. so there is always room for problems is all i am saying. You can always get a bad joint with solder press or push to connect.
Under the list of pros & cons , you overlooked 1 very important factor.
Safety!
Transportation of flammable gas bottles incorrectly can be hazardous, if not fatal if not done correctly. I still remember news worthy articles of plumbing vans exploding like a land mine in my local news paper when I was an aprentice , being pointed out by my father , as he read the paper on a Sunday morning.
Lets not take that for granted.
Very true, thanks for adding that!
Been using these for 10 years and swear by them, had a handful of leaks over thousands of presses, obviously takes the skill out of it but when you're pressing up to 108mm it's nice to have that peace of mind.
What skill, soldering? My 11years old granddaughter can solder pipes stop trying to make it sound like rocket science
Ive had my propress for 1 year already and absolutely love it. You don't need to calibrate it frequently, and I can use it while water is on if I need to. I can just press on a ball valve, close the valve, and good to go. No leak, everything is great. Spent $3k for all my attachments, and tool. And any issues, Milwaukee will be able to replace or fix for free.
It's 50,000 cycles before the calibration
@@Got2Learn I've had it for a year and have done more than 50k cycles. Haven't got it calibrated once.
Not our fittings but that doesn't take away anything from this being a really great video! Kudos. ☺
Buddy of mine just came today to fix some copper pipes in front of my house he used this same method I was blown away how fast everything was done makes me want to get into plumbing 😂
You would think a plumber would charge less considering the job can be done very fast now but they use the tool as an excuse to charge more.
A plumber came to do some emergency furnace work in my basement. His sharp eye spotted a bad copper fitting on my water heater, which I would have normally done myself, but he was there so I asked him to do it. He used the Ridgid version. The repair went so fast I didn't believe he could have been done. So he showed me the ProPress and it blew me away. I had never heard of it. I wanted one, but when I saw the prices I almost passed out. But I did find a hand tool, a hydraulic press for 1", 3/4", 1/2" for the DYI guys. Got good reviews. So if you're still drooling over the Milwaukee or Dewalt, like I am, the hydraulic hand tool smoothed me out like my morning Oxycontin. But I'm still dreaming that Milwaukee or Dewalt will give me one of theirs, like the
DEWALT DCE200M2K 20V.
What hydraulic hand tool did you buy? I'd love to get one of those
I absolutely love pro press. I use it mostly on commercial property’s for the simple fact that most business can’t go long with out water. It’s such a time saver. If at all possible can you do a review on pro pressing gas lines? Thanks and thanks again for another awesome video.
Pro press is awesome man, thx again for the comment Richie!!!
Please don't use this on a house. They have made repairs on mine super expensive as a home gamer.
@@kennethcargill3512 why is that
Propress is a game changer. Even of you only ever press on pex adapters any professional plumber knows it is worth every penny.
It sure is ;)
Clearest videos and no beating around the bush! BEST kudos to you.
Thanks 👍!!!!!!
@@Got2Learn My pleasure, do you have videos on how to remove the Propress fittings? Thank you!
@@artyzinn7725 you can't remove them ;)
Kid from germany here: Im working since 6 months and in any application/construction sotw we habe never ever seen anybody not use propress. I asked why we dont solder things and they told me that in germany we dont solder things since more than 10 years
@Maximus Decimus Meridius i hope ur not right bcuz that will be alot of work :D
Maximus Decimus Meridius actually Europe has been using press fittings since about 1956. They are warrantied for 50 years.
@Maximus Decimus Meridius job Security my friend just like THE new cars.
Nice tool, I guess it's better than soldering in the residual flux in the water supply after soldering.
You're lucky. Here in the US propress is expensive. We still have to solder fittings. It sucks.
Great video. I'm just a homeowner, but seriously considering buying one. It's expensive, but could pay for itself in one or two jobs and you still have a tool with huge value left over.
I want one of these so bad. I’m not a plumber but i love tools and ever since I saw a plumber use one I want one
Got my first job tomorrow with the pro press really appreciate the content.
I dont even do plumbing but this is one of my fav channels LOL
Woooohooooo thanks 🤘🤘🤘
Great video! I'm shopping for a propress gift for my plumbing husband. Thanks
Nice, informative video...like your others. One point you don't address that other videos skip, too: The cleaning of the outside of the pipe. While I guess it's not necessary, I'd still feel better if the outer surface of the adjoining pipe contacting the fitting was wiped down with SOMETHING before the rubber mates with it. Certainly couldn't hurt and wouldn't take all that long, either. Strange.
This is the best channel for plumbing I have learned so much. If you did an electrical channel for residential I would love you.
Thank you! Extremely enlightening and well done. I think “Professional” is the correct word!
i've had to replace leaking copper fittings and had to drain the whole system on 2 different occasions. the water just kept flowing and flowing and flowing, lol. not saying i would shell out the money for this very expensive tool if i had to do it again, but it's great to know there is something like this available out there in case i need it for a non-emergency or a big job that pays for it, thank you for making the video!
🤘🤘🤘
As DIYer I love these new tools and fitting coming out. I enjoy taking on plumbing projects but always hated soldering. I'm not bad at it but sometimes the work area is too tight and seems too dangerous for a blow torch. Hopefully the price comes down after a couple years. Great video!
Yeah pro press is the way to go for so many reasons, thx for your comment Mike ;)
I have a small section of fiberglass welding blanket i use when i have to solder in a tight spot to protect the surroundings.
If you are a DYI'r don't use this. Buy Expansion Pex
that’s what soldering blankets are for
Rental is 156$ for a day at sunbelt.
Edit* I saw the dewalt kit.
thank you for SHOWING what it does. That other plumbing youtuber (Roger Wakefield) just talked about it and never showed how it works, just kept the thing in its case, and blabbed on and on.
🤣👌
propress is a godsend for commercial work. Just pressed in a 3 inch valve for a hotel in no time. If i had to solder it would have been a pain the ass overhead 12 feet up.
Exactly!
Wow, the fact that you needn't drain the pipes is a great feature. This looks like a great way to install systems.
If you are just doing a few fittings and want to keep it simple just use swagelok or yor-lok tube fittings. Fittings are a little expensive but the ease of installing is very nice. You don't need fancy equipment - just some wrenches.
Are those similar to compression fittings?
@@Got2Learn Yes they are compression fittings
As a plumber for a day... yes.. I am a master plumber.... I love this. In fact, I bought the Dewalt Expansion tool and all uponor fittings and now uponor makes these press fittings so I bought some to convert from copper to pex before I rip it all out and just run pex from the main line (when I get to that, I am not sure but I want to replumb the house with a tankless heater and manifold)
Wow, your video quality is absolutely monstrously gigantic.
Your attention to detail is huge, your informativeness is astounding.
8:25 what's that big grey thing?
Hehe, thank you very much. The grey thing is a torpedo level ;)
A torpedo level
I love the tool
It’s not for everything, but is a life saver in certain situations
Has gotten me home at a reasonable hour several days by being able to transition to pex to temporary the water on for a customer after my guys chip through a line at the end of a day. Always happens on the ones the customer is living in the remodel
Hehe yeah true ;)
I appreciate how well you explain everything! Love watching your videos! Thanks!
I enjoy watching that and I appreciate that. That's one of the most useful videos I watched these days on youtube.
Glad you enjoyed it!!
@@Got2Learn I'm an expert on hydraulic systems and piping. If you need help with that, just let me know. It's my honor to help you, Sir.
Never seen one, not that I'm a plumber anyway. I'm convinced they could clamp that using a hand bolt-cutter type device rather than a $$$$ battery tool. Not like you couldn't squeeze copper when you could break hardened steel. Just a thought, personally I'd prefer to solder fittings.
Excellent informative video! We used pro-press on some 1-1/4 copper chiller lines that carry glycol/water mix. No problems after several years yet.
Awesomeeeee 🤩🤩🤩
As long as the mix isnt too pure i had a whole house leak
We use less than 50%@@Linetworks
Thank you so much, ill be using it in a few minutes for my job ❤🎉thanks for the great video and the awesome explanation ❤❤
🙏🙏🙏
Excellent presentation. I had heard about this new system. I have sweated many pipes and made every mistake mentioned. The verbal and video presentation was clear and about the best youtube learning video I have ever seen.
Wow, thank you so much Charles, I really appreciate that, have a great evening!!!
We used this on 4" for a bit of the mains on a hotel we did. Pretty cool stuff. PS you can rent the tool for large jobs and return it when you are done.
Yeah that's also a good option.
I'm waiting for another video about copper pipes....success for "Got2Learn"
In NYC we still use copper lines as per city regulations. However im seeing more of these crimp systems being implemented. I'm still a fan of soldered connection, but you can't argue with the speed and convenience of a crimp fitting.
Yeah the speed is it's strongest point.
Just got my m12 press tool yesterday. Where do you like to get your fittings? I'm looking for an online source where I can buy in bulk obviously. Thanks for the video!
Also, do you like Viega or Nibco fittings? Or are there more brands than that to consider?
Awesome video man I been really interested in this sytem, just recently got my m12 Milwaukee pex expander and really love that think ill stick to that for now but this definitely would be really handy for certain jobs that have to be done in copper.
I wish we had these in the past. I was installing a new water main at my parent's house and the valve at the street wouldn't stop leaking. Trying to get a new pipe soldered in before the whole thing fills up with water was a nightmare. This would have made it so easy.
Yes, propress is awesome for that, and many other things, cheers!
This is where Sharkbite is actually useful. If it leaks in 10 years, does it matter? Nope. I don't use sharkbite in a house where it's inaccessible, but outside at a valve? For sure.
I use a Uponor tool with press heads depending on each use; Uponor for flex pipe, viega or vsh for copper, bonfix for copper to flex etc. Works great and is a lot less expensive to buy. The brand Uponor is a sister brand of Makita.
Uponor products ARE great, and it does seem to be a case of "you get what you pay for" (it's pricey).
I'm not quite sure what you're on about, Uponor is a Finnish publicly traded company that manufactures pipe systems, and is in no way related to Makita. Uponor might have tools made by Makita rebranded for their use.
It would have been very helpful if you had given a web link or price as some sort of indicator because "a lot less expensive to buy" makes no sense without some sort of reference point for comparison.If you earn $250,000.00 per year and I only earn say $50,000.00 per year then your phrase "a lot less expensive to buy" is not going to mean the same thing to me as it does to you.I Iooked up that "Uponor" and from what I saw as far as the pricing of their press tools they are just as insanely priced as Milwaukee and Rigid press tools are.Look at this,for one set of 1/2" uponor replacement inserts they want $225.95.: www.supplyhouse.com/Wirsbo-Uponor-D6270500-1-2-Replacement-Insert-for-MLC-Mulitpress-Manual-Press-Tool-10972000-p that's just for one 1/2" set of inserts,and those inserts are only for a manual pressing tool,if they charge that much for a set of 1/2" inserts I'd hate to see how much they charge for the manual press tool itself,are they smoking crack-cocaine?To Milwaukee's credit they only charge $175.99 for a Milwaukee 1/2" m18 standard copper press jaw.: www.supplyhouse.com/Milwaukee-49-16-2650-1-2-M18-Standard-Copper-Press-Jaw You must be earing plenty big money to be able to call any of that "a lot less expensive to buy".
How do those seals hold up over time. Clorine tends to wroght most rubber seals.
Seem to be doing fine for now, these are EPDM so chlorine has a hard time with those.
Pro press is a great system. There's only 2 things I don't like about it. Number 1 is that once it's pressed, it's not going anywhere, unlike solder where you can just heat it up and knock it apart if you need to. Number 2 is that the tool can be very awkward or sometimes impossible to use in certain places and you have to press some stuff separately which can make putting it together a real pain in the ass. But over all it's a great system that saves a ton of time.
they have close quarter ring kits for propress and megapress now
This video was really well done, thank you. For me I will stick to solder. I am old school I guess. Solder is a molecular weld, not friction and o-ring. O-rings are not considered permanent seals in engineering(permanent meaning it will last the life of the copper). A molecular weld is considered permanent. I am an engineer with >20 years experience.
The O-rings are a backup, you can pull them out and it will still seal, I was skeptical until I saw a test where they did just that
Great vid, had never seen these before until last year. A contractor installed them and there were 6 very very small leaks which sealed themselves after a few weeks and remain dry. Contractor was called back but said that sometimes some water "shelters" in the fittings :-)
Hmmm....interesting.
never had a drip yet.
When the tool asks for "calibration" all that means is that it's time to change the hydraulic fluid that the press tool uses along with the hydraulic seals.It's the same thing with quality hydraulic jacks which recommend replacing the hydraulic fluid and hydraulic seals after a specified number of uses the only difference being that quality hydraulic jacks do not have any lights to indicate when it is time to replace the hydraulic fluid and hydraulic seals and for that you have to send the press tool back to milwaukee and pay $250.00 to $500.00 plus the cost of shipping.It's all a gimmick plain and simple.
Very informative. Wondering how long pro-press fittngs are expected to last?
The fun thing about Propress fittings is they may not start leaking until months after assembly.
If it leaks, it wasn't properly installed.
@@Got2Learn If it leaks , It's Propress.
@@williardbillmore5713 🤙
I save enough money with labor savings that we seldom use solder. It does gas piping so fast, that I save a week of labor on each project. Getting ready to put one on each truck that I own. George Dixon, Dixon Plumbing, Inc
Is this good for gas pipes ?
It was nice speaking with you George.
Looking forward to connect in the future
Tyler
Pro-Care Restoration, inc.
Been using ProPress system for years on copper fuel runs in the gas industry. All fittings used are marked in yellow for gas. So for no leaks after running miles of copper lines. Time will tell how long the O-rings last. I've worked in the gas utility business for over 35 years and I can tell you I have seen companies come and go based on the idea of the next best invention or product. In other words one failure and one lawsuit and a system like this could be history.
Well said.
I wonder if there's any system similar to this, but instead of the fittings being preloaded with a rubber O-ring, they are preloaded with solder and flux. Then you slip a battery operated tool over it that heats up the fitting to the right temperature for the right amount of time to ensure a good joint.
The closest thing that resembles that are Yorkshire fittings. For the heating part, you'd need a torch or on of those heating element specifically made for solder to heat it up. Here is the link to the fitting: bit.ly/39V2Vmh
Here is the link to the heating tool: bit.ly/38VNAAw
@@Got2Learn Fascinating. I never even knew such a thing existed.
Now you do :)
@@Got2Learn WOW!!!I remember that tool from years ago,I was thinking of buying one at the time but the tool was not widely available here in the US.It would have been a great tool to use I think being that there is no flame involved. www.parksupplyofamerica.com/Antex-USA-Inc.-PipeMaster-Pro-Copper-Pipe-Flameless-Soldering-Tool?msclkid=de6e5d035b1d134b5353039fcd5dea5e The tool isn't as good as the tool can be because instead of using a set screws to attach the dies to the heating prongs on the tool the company opted to use threads which allows the dies to loosen.Set screws and a flattened side on the tool's heating prongs and the dies would definitely stay in place rather than working themselves loose.I would definitely buy and use the tool if the company ever decides to change the dies from the screw on type to dies that attach with a set screw because anyone that has used soldering irons knows full well that when the soldering iron tips get loose the tips no longer conduct heat like the soldering tips are supposed to.
Home Depot sell them back around 2010 for a few years
I have gone to a few houses where they were used and they were leaking Had to cut them all out. I cut one out and saw the solder didn’t complete capillary attraction they stopped selling them they are a piece of junk I believe mueller streamline made the fittings
Looking at this I really wonder if a good old copper compression fitting will not have a longer life.... And also does not require a hot work permit. I would use those only for copper repair, for anything new, I am an Uponor Propex Expander guy.....
Fittings have just a 10 year guarantee...
@@bjornmarley5670 Depends on the quality: The FORGE™ range of DZR brass screwed, flared & compression fittings are perfect for potable water, natural & LP gas applications. All fittings are fully compliant to AS3688, carry the Watermark approval and are backed by the FORGE™ 25 Year Lifetime warranty.
Truth is nothing is better than a soldering job done by a professional
Good explaiation. Thorough, complete and to the point. No wasted time.
Glad you liked it!
Thank you, don't forget to share, it really helps the channel!
I never realized how bad i was at soldering water pipes, until i had to solder caps from removing hot water coil. Definitely failed on soldering, so i pulled out company's propress. Lol!!
Hvacr tech. 0 leaks from brazing.
Or you could have used ball valves with comppression fittings or SharkBite caps if it was a temporary thing.
"Smoke 'em if ya got 'em."
Now that you mention it I'm going to have to install ball valves,unions and a bypass line from my hot water coil pipe because the hot water coil is piped to the cold water inlet on my water heater so if my hot water coil ever gets clogged I'm going to need ball valves to shut off the water to the hot water coil,unions to disconnect the hot water coil and a bypass line to divert the water from the hot water coil directly to my water heater until I can order a new hot water coil for my boiler.Gee,isn't owning a home loads of fun?NOT!!!On the bright side,if you can call it that,a new hot water coil for my boiler would only cost me $250.00 (last time I checked.) plus the shipping and tax,that's if I do the work myself.If I call a contractor or plumber to do the work I don't even want to discuss it or think about it because it gives me a terrible headache and a big pain in the wallet.
Another excellent learning video. Please consider " HATS " in the merchandise section. Us working men always love hats. Ball caps or beanies.
Will do, thanks!!!
Thank you, I feel less prepared to do this job myself now. lol Plumbers are expensive and you never know when or if they will have time.
This is why I'm getting out of plumbing after 25 years. There's simply no finesse. Thank god I've picked up enough skills along the way to shift to a General Builder
I'm a general builder. The finesse is leaving this trade too.
@@Sc-jf3yk At least you have more control over the quality of your work and methods instead of shirts controlling practices. The future of natural gas is another factor for me ;)
This honestly looks like a solution in search of a problem. I'm also more curious to see how durable these fittings will be 20+ years on.
viega guarantees 50 years, the life of the o-ring, depending on the job, you can have a yellow o-ring for gas or different o-ring materials for oil lines or dairy products or whatever chemicals
Huh? Soldering sucks labor wise. How is soldering not a problem?
@@rsilvers129 we exactly I just put a tap for a fridge freezer in 6 joints soldered and one tap shut off valve. Took me less than an hour to cut the pipes, solder, screw to wall and test. I even connected the fridge even though I didn't quote for that. I'm not sure how pressing would have save me much time. One joint would have been impossible to press under the sink.
Speaking from a Master Plumber/Gasfitter from Australia, one major concern I see with this video is this. Viega fittings with a Milwaukee press tool, sure it practically works but you really should be promoting the specified press tool for the product you are using by the manufacturer - Viega press tool and heads for viega fittings being used. An alternative branded press tool than what is specified for the product is an instant product warrantee void which could be a painful experience if a joint failure on a job is the cause of a fire with gas or extensive flooding on a property. Another aspect to keep in mind for people using press tools is that not every tool is compatible with every press fitting even if they work. Ultimately braze welding has its hangups but the old ways are a preferable better end result.
Pro Press systems work slick as snot, although the fittings are expensive!
yes, but the speed is worth the extra cost.
great job demonstrating the use of the tool, I don't like soldering copper so now I will just crimp it!
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25 years ago I was using these already. In Europe, that is.
It's probably considered a novelty in a country where houses are made out of cardboard.
as an european plumber these videos are like a timecapsule back to my apprenticeship in the early 2000's. half of what he's doing is either completely illegal (edit. illegal where i live. I'm sure it is up to code where he lives) or obsolete :) Seems like a nice guy though, and good at his job
@@kartoffelsaek In Germany plumbers have to know more about physics than the average physics student at any US university.
@@jacquesmertens3369 you seems like a proud european but US still have more invention than the whole euro combine
I just lucked out an picked up a M18 Press kit for $729 on clearance before taxes at Home Depot!!! It was on clearance from another store that couldn’t sale it🤙🏽🤙🏽
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Yea see this in all plumbers. Its good. We even do some in the sprinkler side. Never done one myself tho
Great informative video. As a DIYer, I might consider going with this style fitting if I were installing a large number of fittings. However, as I only need to perform a couple of coupling installations, the propress is cost prohibitive, and I'll be going with the shark bite max.
I'm not a plumber, but the longevity of the o-ring would worry me in any work I had done in my house. It's similar to a compression fitting, using a tool instead of a nut. I wonder if a variant just using the copper fitting itself would work? It would have to be redesigned to have a ring that could be compressed onto the pipe, or maybe use a separate copper olive.
A lot of people have the same opinion as you, but little do people know, is that EPDM o-rings have been used on submarines in the military for years now and they are also used on every car's braking system, so we basically depend on these o-rings every day without even knowing it. This is why Pro Press fittings are reliable and are ok to use, there should be no worries. If you soldered the joint for example, it would also start leaking after 40-50 years, just like the o-ring, they are just quicker to install :)
@@Got2Learn A properly soldered joint will last the lifetime of the pipe. EDPM is petroleum based and will last about 50+ years...maybe.
These o-rings are EDPM. Then again, copper pipe should last 50+ years. So it's a wash. Something will give.
I bought a manual press tool from iCrimp. Plan on using it to place hydronic loop in a place where I would rather not use a torch. I’ll see how it goes. I have to pre-fit the install and plan the sequence of crimps in such a way that I have the space to use the tool. The same problem exists with the power crimp too. I see Rigid offers an accessory kit that includes a special set of ring clamps and a special jaw that allows for work in tight spaces. If you’re paying $2k for the power tool what’s another $300 for the accessory kit. And, you have to admit, spending several thousand on the proper tools sure beats burning down the house.
The tool is pretty expensive but if i have lot of jobs to do,I would buy it. There are some installation spots, we definitely we need it
I seen other videos, yours are more well described. Thank you. Already subscribed.
Pardon me if I missed this, but to me the #1 most important pro of this tool is the ability to work in very cramped tight spaces. Cutting and especially sweating pipes in tight spaces is very hazardous and often impossible. This tool makes cramped joints and angles a snap.
Ordered mine this week, can’t wait to get it into the field!!
Same here, went with Ridgid though.
Firstly, I live and work in northern Minnesota. It’s frozen most of the year.
I do like how quick and convenient the press system can be. I don’t like the price. Most importantly, as a land lord, and housing contractor, I hate this system. Every house I’ve had or worked on with this system has had pipe failures. Either frozen pipes that burst (makes hydronic heat nearly impossible to fix) or more often than not, incorrect installation, both scenarios make my job particularly difficult. I prefer either copper with sweat joints (solder) or pex home run style.
@Don Caudle If people weren't such skin flints and would install electric baseboard heaters with thermostats they wouldn't end up with frozen burst pipes in their basements.The winter before last we had to have our boiler replaced because the boiler was in really bad shape even though I did my best to keep the old boiler in good condition.When we first bought this house one of the first things that I did was to install a six foot electric baseboard heater with a thermostat in my boiler room in case the boiler ever ran out of oil or malfunctioned and the baseboard heater came in handy and works like a true champ.The boiler replacement took from 7am to 10:30pm and the baseboard heater kept the basement warm while the boiler technicians replaced the old boiler.Frozen burst pipes cost you not only for the repair of the burst pipes but for the water damage caused by the burst water pipes as well.I keep my electric baseboard heater set at 60F and I have not had any problems or huge electric bills for the times the electric baseboard heater had to work in order to keep my basement from freezing.Work smarter,not harder.
I just left Montana where I was a maintenance tech for 12 years. It gets cold there too. I’ve noticed that crimp fittings retain small amounts of water, even when lines are blown out, as in irrigation. They burst in this scenario. I’ve always sweat soldered connections. But I wonder if the crimp connections hold small amounts of water outside the copper, retained from condensation. This would cause bursting. Shark bites are worthless in the north. Compression fittings are expensive but are bulletproof.
@Niek Vels I agree, however, Mother Nature often wins. When the temp outside is -45° to as cold as -65° these 100 year old houses have difficulty resisting the transition of heat. This would be a big difference if they were 2x6 framing and had 9” of exterior insulation with the 2x6 insulated walls. But that’s not the case. We do what we can with what we have available. Press fitting just don’t work well here.
You have a crooked press at 9:33. Also forgot to mention that there are (expensive) 1/4 turn valves available from Viega with ProPress female ends. This is vital on torch free jobs where you need to install shutoff valves.
I just had a spigot replaced and the plumber used these fittings to come from the riser. I had NEVER heard of these and was only aware of soldering for my all copper house piping. He was in and out VERY quickly. But I am still a little bit concerned about the O ring wearing out. I guess only time will tell and lawyers, if or when they deteriorate. It might be good to come up with a metal O ring material that is exactly the right size and soft enough or flexible to 'weld' to the pipe when under pressure and crimped. Check with Area 51 which might have it.
Maybe you can solder after its installed?
Nishi diyi ! You are NO . 1 !
🙏🙏🙏
Outsider point-of-view here.
I don't think any of the pro's need to feel threatened in any way by this technology. If I were a plumber I would more than likely own this machine. It looks like a reliable way to get the job done quickly, which in turn allows you guys more time to enjoy being FILTHY RICH!!
My guess is that soldering is not going away anytime soon, and is a skill/art that a real plumber will need to be good at for at least the next 75-100 years. Nail guns haven't put the carpenter out of business, and they still have to know how to swing a hammer!
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You can say that again,I learned to solder copper pipe from licensed contractors and plumbers that I had the honor and the priviledge to work for and learn from when I was sixteen years old back in NYC,I am now fiftynine years old and I still solder copper pipe if and when ever it is convenient and safe to do so.Where it is not convenient and/or safe to solder copper pipe I now own and use copper pipe press tools,I get the best of both worlds.Even licensed seasoned plumbers that own and use press tools say that soldering is a necessary skill that every plumber must know,what does that tell us?
I real pro is not going to be threatened because the tools do not make the tradesman.
True!
The only soldering I've seen recently, was to the new valve they install, & most important part was to remove the pieces & parts that the heat would otherwise melt. Then reassemble the valve. All our joints are half-inch pex , or half-inch existing copper fitting, but our kit also has the three-quarter inch heads. We NEVER leave this piece out where it could be stolen, BTW.
Have a propress at work. Fast, simple, and makes a rigid connection. We use them for weld gas supply, steam condensate, and water works at the plant.