PEX Plumbing Tubing (Non-Barrier)

The size of tubing is usually determined by the end use, or end application, with most common being:

1/2" PEX plumbing tubing is the most common of all sizes and is typically used in conjunction with PEX manifolds to carry hot or cold water from the manifold to plumbing fixtures. 1/2" PEX is also the most cost-effective and one of the most flexible tubing sizes.

3/4" PEX is generally used for main water lines in small to mid size residences and usually carries the supply of water from the water heater to the PEX manifold. Due to a larger ID than 1/2" size, it is sometimes used for plumbing fixtures that require greater than normal amount of flow, such as bath tubs, jacuzzi and shower jets.

1" PEX is typically used for water mains in medium to larger size residential homes.

3/8" PEX can be used for plumbing fixtures with normal or less than normal water flow requirements.

All sizes of PEX plumbing tubing may sometimes be used for radiant heating or hydronic heating applications, such as open loop systems, if the system is designed with all non-corrosive (non cast iron) components.

Related documents:
PEX tubing types - Oxygen Barrier vs. Non-Barrier
How to install PEX tubing. Making a crimp connection.