How to Crimp Pex Without Tool | 15 Steps with Images

Pex piping is a revolutionary plumbing system that has been around for the last few decades and has become famous for many DIY home repairs. It is an excellent choice for any home repair project because it is cost-effective and easy to work with.

One of the best features of piping is that you can use it without needing any special tools. You can crimp Pex by applying pipe dope on PEX joins and doing some crimping ring works.

So, the home affluence team teaches you how to crimp Pex without a tool. Crimping is joining Pex pipes to a fitting by compressing the tube with a unique mechanism.                    

We will show you how to use natural leverage to achieve a tight and secure crimp without needing special tools. The Home Affluence team will provide step-by-step instructions so you can be sure to get a successful connection every time.

They will also review some pointers and tactics for getting the most out of your Pex piping system. Turning off the water supply when undertaking any plumbing or construction work is essential. 

It helps to reduce the risk of flooding and the spread of contaminants. Use the stopcock or main valve on the main water supply pipe to switch off the water supply. So, let’s begin:

How to Crimp Pex Without Tool

Follow the below steps;

• Turn off the water supply
• Flush the PEX
• Cut and Measure PEX
• Join the PEX
• Apply pipe dope on PEX Joints
• Crimp the pex using a pex crimping tool for copper-pex
• Wrap joints with tape
• Paint and test for leaks.
• Mark the Location for crimping
• Install the Crimp Ring
• Slide on the Grip Ring
• Connect the Quick-Connect Fitting
• Rotate the Crimping Tool Barrel
• Squeeze the Crimp Tool Together
• Test for leaks and connect PEX tubing to the fitting

Now, let’s learn each step with images for better understanding;

Turn off the water supply.

It is important to remember to turn the valve in a clockwise direction to turn it off and anti-clockwise to turn it back on. Once the water supply is off, it is vital to check that all taps turn off and that no water is running.

Turning off the water supply before you start any work is essential to ensure the safety of those around you.

Flush the PEX

Flushing the PEX is a crucial component of proper maintenance and upkeep of any plumbing system. It involves running clean water through the system to clear out any sediment, chemicals, or other debris that may have built up over time. This process can do manually using a garden hose or a specialized PEX flush kit.

Should complete the flush process annually to ensure optimal performance and prevent future issues from arising. Doing a flush can help extend the life of the PEX plumbing system, as well as improve water quality and reduce the risk of leaks. 

Cut and Measure PEX

Cut and Measure PEX uses plumbing for connecting pipes for water flow. It is an excellent choice for plumbing projects as it is easy to work with, cost-effective, and durable. PEX is a flexible, plastic piping used for hot and cold water supply systems that lasts up to 50 years. 

Make sure to allow the correct space between the pipe and fittings and leave enough slack for the connection. With the right tools and techniques, cutting and measuring PEX is a simple and reliable way to make plumbing connections.

Join the PEX

Joining the PEX card program is an excellent choice for businesses looking to maximize their purchasing power.

The PEX card provides a secure payment source for various purchases, including travel expenses, office supplies, etc. Members also benefit from rewards, discounts, and other special offers.

The program is easy to manage, with a simple application process and no annual fees. All transactions do track and reported, giving businesses visibility into their spending and providing invaluable information to inform decisions.

The PEX card is a powerful tool that can help enterprises to save money and operate more efficiently.

Apply pipe dope on PEX Joints

Pipe dope is an essential component when applying PEX joints. It acts as a lubricant and sealant to create a waterproof seal and ensure the joint is secure. Before applying the pipe dope, provide the common is clean and free from debris.

It is vital to use the correct pipe dope for the application, as different materials require different types of pipe dope. If done correctly, the common should be watertight and secure against leaks.

Crimp the Pex using a pex crimping tool for copper-pex

When crimping Pex with a Pex crimping tool for copper-Pex, it is vital to ensure the instrument adequately adjusts to the pipe’s size.

So, the crimping tool should position the final pipe with the crimp ring and insert it until the round is at the correct depth for the pipe size.

After the crimp ring does complete, the pipe should test for leaks. With proper use and care of the Pex crimping tool, the pipe should withstand considerable pressure and maintain a watertight seal.

Wrap joints with tape

Taping of wrap joints is an essential step in the finishing process for many projects. It involves the application of a particular tape, often a polyethylene-based video, over the joint between two pieces of wrap material. 

Taping is essential for preventing water from seeping in, which can cause delamination and other issues. Properly taping wrap joints will ensure a lasting and professional-looking finish.

Paint and test for leaks.

Paint and testing for leaks is an integral part of maintaining any structure. You should paint with an appropriate type of paint to ensure longevity and protection from the elements. After painting, it is necessary to test for leaks.

You can do it by conducting a pressure test or using a leak detection system. Water testing with a garden hose is also an effective way to identify any areas with potential leaks. Timely repair and repainting are necessary to protect your structure and help ensure its long-term stability.

Mark the location for crimping

Marking the location for crimping is an essential part of any wiring process. Accurate marking is critical, reducing the risk of an electrical failure or a short circuit. It is essential to mark the location with a permanent marker, as this ensures that the marking remains visible should any adjustments or repairs to make.

Additionally, using a measuring tape or ruler to measure and mark the locations for crimping is vital. Taking the time to celebrate the site for crimping is an essential step in any wiring process.

Install the Crimp Ring

Installing a crimp ring is a relatively straightforward process. First, select the correct size of the crimp ring and ensure that the pipe is free of obstructions or damage. Next, slide the crimp ring onto the tube and position it correctly.

Once in place, use a crimping tool to compress the ring, creating a secure seal. After crimping, check the seal to ensure it is fast and free of any leaks. Repeat the process if a leak is present until a secure connection to achieve. 

Crimp rings are ideal for connecting pipes, offering a reliable and cost-effective solution. When installed correctly, they are a durable and long-lasting connection.

Slide on the Grip Ring

It features an ergonomic design that fits the hand perfectly, allowing the user to maintain a secure grip while fixing PEX. The flexible, non-slip silicone material ensures the Grip Ring will stay in place, even during vigorous activity.

Its versatility and convenience make it an excellent choice for anyone looking to maximize their performance while protecting their hands.

Connect the Quick-Connect Fitting

The Quick-Connect Fitting is a revolutionary product that offers a quick and easy solution to connecting pipes and hoses. It makes it perfect for applications requiring frequent connection and disconnection, such as in many industrial uses.

The Quick-Connect Fitting makes a durable, corrosion-resistant material that lasts for years. Its simple design makes it easy to install, and will stay firmly in place once connected. The Quick-Connect Fitting is an excellent solution for those looking for a quick and easy way to connect pipes and hoses.

Rotate the Crimping Tool Barrel

Rotating the crimping tool barrel is a critical step in the crimping process. To turn the barrel, loosen the handle and rotate the barrel to the desired position. Ensure the barrel is in the proper orientation to ensure appropriate crimping. Additionally, ensure that the barrel is secured when it is in place. The crimp should fit snugly against the wire, and the barrel should be firmly attached.

It will prevent any issues during the crimping process and ensure a strong connection. If the crimp does not form correctly, it could lead to poor electrical connections and possible corrosion. Taking the time to rotate the barrel properly will help to ensure a successful crimping process.

Squeeze the Crimp Tool Together

Should firmly squeeze the crimp tool together for the most secure connection. It is essential to ensure that the crimp tool is held at the same angle throughout the process to ensure the integrity of the link. When the crimp tool squeezes together, it should do it slowly and control to ensure the pins are fully engaged and secure connection.

It is also vital to ensure that the crimp tool is not over-squeezed, as this can cause damage to the pins and the connection. When the desired crimp does achieve, the crimp tool should be released, and the relationship can test for integrity. By following these steps, you can perform a secure connection.

Test for Leaks and Connect PEX Tubing to Fitting

Testing for leaks and connecting PEX tubing to fittings is essential to any plumbing system installation. When testing for leaks, it is vital to use a pressure gauge to test the joints in the system. If the pressure drops, it indicates a leak. 

The tubing must be cut to the appropriate length and inserted into the fitting. The fitting must be tightened using a proper tool and tested for leaks. Finally, the system is ready for use providing the user with a safe, reliable plumbing system.

Expert Opinion

PEX tubing is a type of plastic pipe that you can use for water, heating, and cooling. PEX tubing is also known as PE-X or Polyethylene-Crosslinked Polyethylene.

Can connect PEX tubing to crimp fittings without using tools. There are two types of crimp fittings – male and female. Male fittings have an inside diameter slightly larger than the outside diameter of the PEX tubing, and female fittings have an outer diameter somewhat more prominent than the inside diameter of the PEX tubing.

Male crimp fittings connect PEX tubing to other pieces of piping or equipment, while female crimp fittings connect a length of PEX tubing to another size of PEX tube.

There are three ways to connect pex tubing to crimp fittings: by using a crimping tool, by using pipe dope, or by using a ring.

These steps ensure that your PEX joints are properly sealed and ready for use. With the right tools and materials, you can be sure that your PEX connections are secure and reliable.

References

• Editors Team. (2022, March 31). PEX Plumbing Pipe: Everything You Need to Know. Retrieved December 15, 2022
• Editors Team. (2022, September 19). How to crimp PEX without tool 2022 (Guide). Retrieved December 15, 2022
• Ryan. (2021, May 8). HOW TO INSTALL PEX WITHOUT A CRIMP TOOL. Retrieved December 15, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CmLsSYbBqo8 
• Editors Team, M., & MakinThings » M. A. (2019, February 5). Crimping Pex with Cheap Vice-crimper. Retrieved December 15, 2022, from https://www.instructables.com/Crimping-Pex-With-Cheap-Vice-crimper/