Pex fittings are important to hold structural components together. Unfortunately, they do get worn out and can collapse. In order to avoid damages and injuries, they have to be removed and sometimes replaced. If they are removed the correct way, they can be used again. Wondering how to remove Pex clamps? There are a few tools you need to follow the step-by-step instructions but you can also remove them without tools.
Let’s take a look.
Tools Required:
- Pex crimp tool
- Pex cutter or pipe cutter
- Pex cinch/clamp tool (if using cinch/clamp fittings)
- Adjustable wrench (if using push-fit fittings)
How to Remove With Tools
1. Turn off the water supply to the Pex fitting.
2. Use a Pex cutter or pipe cutter to cut the Pex tubing close to the fitting you want to remove.
3. If using crimp fittings, use a Pex crimp tool to remove the crimp ring by squeezing it together and sliding it off the Pex tubing.
4. If using cinch/clamp fittings, use a Pex cinch/clamp tool to compress the cinch/clamp ring so that it expands and releases the grip on the Pex tubing.
5. If using push-fit fittings, use an adjustable wrench to grasp the collar of the fitting and pull it away from the Pex tubing.
6. Once the fitting is removed, you can insert a new fitting or cap the Pex tubing with an end cap.
How to Remove without Tools
1. Turn off the water supply to the Pex fitting.
2. Heat the Pex tubing near the fitting with a heat gun or a hairdryer. The heat will soften the Pex enough to make it pliable.
3. Once the Pex tubing is soft and pliable, gently twist and pull the fitting away from the tubing. Be careful not to apply too much force as this could cause damage to the tubing.
4. Once the fitting is removed, you can insert a new fitting or cap the Pex tubing with an end cap.
Other Recommended Maintenance
Now that you know about removing Pex clamps, let’s take a look at a few other areas of maintenance. One of those is the disadvantages of Pex plumbing. One of those is that the material is a favorite of rodents so they like to chew through it. Also, it can’t be recycled and can’t be used outdoors so think twice before using it on a project because of these limitations.
Another one is Pex in the attic. It is good to know that Pex won’t likely freeze in the attic. However, make sure you have insulation as you don’t want it to get too cold that it does end up freezing.
Lastly, if you have air in the water pipes, it is due to either a crack in the pipe or the need to replace plumbing materials.
When Do I Call A Professional?
Call a professional if you are having a hard time removing the clamps or fitting. It can be tricky to get them off the tubing so you may need a master plumber to help with this. Contact your local home inspection company to see if they can recommend someone to help you.
Conclusion
Removing the clamp can be difficult as it requires hand and arm strength, as well as being careful in the process. If you are unsure of how to do this, reach out to a company to help you. If the clamp breaks, it may not be used again so keep this in mind. Also, think about a home inspection while you are at it as you never know what else needs replacing in the home. Reach out to Alpha building inspections for a full home inspection in Merrimack, New Hampshire, and surrounding areas.
