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Plumbing with SharkBite Fittings: Homeowner's Guide

Updated: Nov 4, 2023

Homeownership often comes with its fair share of responsibilities, including maintenance and occasional repairs. Plumbing issues are some of the most common problems homeowners face, and while calling a professional plumber is sometimes necessary, there are instances when you can tackle smaller plumbing projects yourself. One essential tool in any DIY homeowner's plumbing arsenal is plumbing with SharkBite fittings. In this article, we'll explore the benefits and proper usage of SharkBite fittings, empowering you to confidently address minor plumbing tasks without breaking the bank. Plumbing with SharkBite fittings!

Understanding Plumbing with SharkBite Fittings

A SharkBite fitting for straight line.
SharkBite straight 1/2" fitting

Plumbing with SharkBite fittings is a revolutionary new idea designed for ease of use by both professionals and homeowners alike. These fittings are engineered to join various types of pipes, including copper, PEX, and CPVC, without the need for soldering, gluing, or any special tools.





The secret behind their simplicity and effectiveness lies in their design, which

A SharkBite breakdown drawing
SharkBit fitting interior drawing

incorporates sharp teeth and an O-ring within a push-to-connect mechanism.


Advantages of Plumbing with SharkBite Fittings

  1. Minimal Special Tools Required: One of the most significant advantages of plumbing with SharkBite fittings is that they don't demand an extensive tool collection. All you need is a simple pipe cutter and a deburring tool to prepare your pipes for connection. If you plan on doing several jobs you may need a removal tool which doesn't add much to the cost. You can use a hacksaw to cut your tubing, but a tubing cutter is more efficient.

  2. Time-Saving: Traditional plumbing methods often involve waiting for joints to cool or glue to dry. Plumbing with SharkBite fittings, on the other hand, make a secure and reliable connection in mere seconds, saving you valuable time during DIY projects.

  3. Ease of Use: Plumbing with SharkBite fittings is exceptionally user-friendly. To connect pipes, simply push the fitting onto the pipe until it clicks, signaling a secure connection. To disconnect, use a SharkBite disconnect clip.

  4. Versatility: These fittings are compatible with various pipe materials, making them versatile for a range of applications. Whether you're working with copper, PEX, or CPVC pipes, SharkBite fittings have you covered.

  5. Reusability: Plumbing with SharkBite fittings is designed for reuse, which means you can disassemble and reassemble them multiple times without compromising their effectiveness.

Common DIY Applications

Now that you understand the advantages of plumbing with SharkBite fittings, let's explore some common DIY plumbing projects where they can come in handy:

  1. Leaky Pipe Repair: Whether it's a small pinhole leak or a slightly damaged section of pipe, Plumbing with SharkBite fittings can provide a quick and reliable solution. Simply cut out the damaged portion, prepare the pipe ends, and use SharkBite fittings to join them securely.

  2. Adding New Fixtures: When installing a new faucet, toilet, or shower, Plumbing with SharkBite fittings makes it easy to connect the plumbing lines without the need for soldering or gluing.

  3. Replacing Valves: If you need to replace a faulty shut-off valve or pressure relief valve, plumbing with SharkBite fittings simplifies the process. Cut out the old valve, insert SharkBite fittings, and attach the new valve securely. One of the most common valves that are many times a headache for homeowners is the shut off valve for the toilet. The older type quarter turn stop valves are many times very difficult to turn. The newer replacement SharkBite stop valve shown below is only a few dollars more and a breeze to exchange.

A Sharkbite toilet stop fitting.
Newer Sharkbite toilet stop

Remodeling Projects: During bathroom or kitchen renovations, plumbing with SharkBite fittings allows you to make plumbing changes with minimal disruption. Whether you're rerouting pipes or connecting new fixtures, they offer a hassle-free solution.

Safety Considerations While SharkBite fittings are designed for DIY use, it's essential for homeowners to follow some safety precautions:

  1. Turn Off the Water: Always shut off the water supply to the area you're working on before making any plumbing connections or repairs.

  2. Properly Size and Prepare Pipes: Ensure you cut pipes cleanly and use a deburring tool to remove any rough edges before attaching SharkBite fittings.

  3. Inspect for Leaks: After making connections, carefully inspect for any leaks or drips. If you notice a leak, disassemble and reassemble the fitting or consult a professional if necessary.




Conclusion

Plumbing with SharkBite fittings has revolutionized DIY plumbing for plumbers as well as homeowners providing a reliable and straightforward solution for a wide range of projects. By understanding their benefits and proper usage, you can confidently tackle minor plumbing tasks, save time and money, and enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done. On simple tasks using SharkBite fittings, watch instructional videos and carefully follow the detailed installation recommendations and you will have at great DIY project completed! Remember to prioritize safety and consult a professional for more complex plumbing issues. Happy plumbing!


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If you need help with installation in the Dayton Area, please reach us at :


937-990-7517


or send us an email at: productassemblyservices@gmail.com


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