Best PEX fitting system?

[ctilsie242]

I know what the first thing people say when it comes to PEX fittings, and that's Sharkbite/Gatorbite/etc. However, with those, there is only a single O-ring that can easily get nicked if one isn't careful inserting the tubing, and the O-ring will get eaten away over time by chlorine. Either way, you have a leak.

Crimp fittings are commonly used by RV makers, but twist the lines slightly, and they start to leak.

So far, the best I've found is Uponor's ProPex expanding fittings, which only work with their PEX-A pipe, and their expansion tool is not cheap.

Second best appears to be Flair-It fittings which assemble and disassemble by hand, and because they squeeze the PEX tubing on all sides, it does a good job.

What would one recommend for RV plumbing?

[RVhiker]

Stainless steel crimp rings have never let me down. The rings are fairly cheap, and I think my crimping tool cost about $45.

[SidecarFlip]

I have the crimp tool and bands and that is what I use. Tubing twist is more from not maintaining a steady firm grip on the tool when securing the bands more than anything else.
My in floor PEX hydronic heat system uses compression fittings with double 'o' rings. It's a Califfi (Italian Made system).

[darsben1]

Shark bite has done well for me for 4 years now

[RLS7201]

I carry a selection of Flair-It fittings for emergencies. I have both 3/8" and 1/2" fittings and valves. Call me paranoid.
My neighbors, that I help, call me all sorts of things. Including, "lets go to dinner, my treat".

Richard