A push-fit fitting uses metal tines to hold the tubing, in this case PEX and copper, against an O-ring seal. The fittings are sized by the tubing’s outside diameter. A clamp-ring connection connects PEX to existing metal pipe. PEX tubing is crimped onto the male end, and the female end is either soldered or threaded onto existing pipe.

The most common connection method used in PEX installation is the “Crimp” method. This process involves sliding a ribbed fitting into the PEX tube and crimping a seal ring around the connection point. These rings are typically made of copper, but may be found in plastic as well as brass.

Plus, connecting a PEX system is relatively easy to learn and quick to install. Learn about the five PEX connection methods — crimp, clamp, push-to-connect, expansion and expansion with compression — and hear about the pros and cons of each to determine which fitting system will work best for your future piping projects.

There are two parts to this transition: the PEX-A MIP adapter and the PEX-B FIP adapter. These parts will thread together and allow you to join PEX-A to PEX-B. The PEX-A side will require an expansion ring while the PEX-B side requires the crimp ring. This method will also require using pipe dope and tape to ensure the seal is good.