Important do's and dont's

By following the simple installation guidelines the Sharkbite system can dramatically reduce installation time over traditional plumbing systems. It is important however to consider these following guidelines to ensure your installation is correct and suitable for the application.

Do

  • Do use Sharkbite or Sharkbite PE-X pipe only for hot and cold water distribution.
  • Do install Sharkbite or Sharkbite PE-X pipe to the appropriate local plumbing codes.
  • Do use only fittings or accessories that have been tested and approved for the Sharkbite or Sharkbite PE-X Plumbing System.
  • Do inspect all pipe before and after installation. Damaged or kinked sections should be cut out and replaced.
  • Do pressure test the system on completion (AS3500 16.3.1 requires 1500kPa for at least 30mins).
  • Do refer to the chemical resistance chart on this site to ensure the suitability of the product for the intended application.

Do Not

Chemicals

  • Do not use with natural gas, propane, fuel oil or any other fluid, chemical or product.
  • Do not subject pipe to prolonged exposure to free chlorine concentrations greater than 4 mg/L.
  • Do not use in contaminated soils.
  • Do not expose to materials that affect the basic properties of cross-linked polyethylene, brass, or copper. Certain adhesives may react negatively with PE-X pipe. It is best to avoid applying adhesives directly to PE-X if you are unsure of long-term consequences.

Temperature & Other environments

  • Do not freeze. Sharkbite or Sharkbite PE-X pipe is freeze-resistant, but not freeze-proof. Pipe embedded in concrete that is subjected to freezing conditions will likely damage both the concrete and the pipe. Pipe that is not embedded and frozen may damage joints or manifolds. Be sure to carefully pressure test, inspect and repair systems that have been subjected to a freeze prior to returning them to normal operation.
  • Do not pressure test with water in freezing conditions.
  • Do not expose the pipe to direct flame.
  • Do not install pipe near heat sources. Keep the pipe a MINIMUM of 12” vertically and 6” horizontally from sources of high heat such as recessed light fixtures, gas flue vents, heating appliances, or electric motors. These areas of installation should be rechecked after further construction and other mechanical systems have been installed. Forced air heating ducts are not generally considered sources of high heat. PE-X can be installed in return air plenums.
  • Do not store or install where pipe will be exposed to direct or indirect ultraviolet light (i.e. sunlight).
  • Do not use in excessive operating conditions inconsistent with pressure ratings that appear on pipe and applicable standards.


Installation

  • Do not use sharp instruments to open the Sharkbite or Sharkbite packaging, you may damage the pipe.
  • Do not use defective fittings with the pipe.
  • Do not install pipe that has defects such as: gouges, cuts, deep scratches, kinks, evidence of grease, tar or any chemical exposure, fading or discolouration.
  • Do not drag the pipe over rough terrain, rocks, or any other surface which could abrade, cut, puncture or damage the pipe wall in any way.
  • Do not crush or kink the pipe. Do not heat kinked pipe to repair/reform.
  • Do not install through metal studs or concrete without using a protective sleeve
  • Do not use supports that may collapse or cut the pipe. Supports should NOT have sharp edges which could damage the pipe.
  • Do not use metal hangers with sharp or abrasive edges or hangers that may pinch or penetrate the pipe. Proper hangers, clamps and straps are available from your Sharkbite supplier.
  • Do not pull pipe tight at connections. Prevent unnecessary strain on the pipe, fittings and connections with straps or clamps.