SharkBite Universal push-to-connect fittings are the core products within the SharkBite Connection System, and provide the easiest and most dependable way to join PEX copper, CPVC, HDPE or PE-RT pipe in any combination without solder, clamps, unions or glue. When you insert the pipe, the stainless steel teeth in our push-to-connect fittings bite down and grip tight, while the specially formulated O-ring compresses to create a perfect, watertight seal.

No tools are required for connecting SharkBite fittings though the SharkBite Deburr & Gauge Tool is recommended for deburring and measuring the depth of the pipe. The pipe must be cut square, deburred and free of debris before installing.

Yes, the Disconnect Clip is required to remove a SharkBite fitting. Disconnect Tongs are also available to remove the fitting if the connection is in a confined or hard to reach space where a Disconnect Clip is not possible to use.

Yes, fittings can be reused for testing purposes, but any fitting used repeatedly for testing must not then be used in a permanent installation.

Yes, the fitting can be rotated after assembly and will not affect the integrity of the joint.

No, fittings are only certified for potable water and radiant heating installations.

SharkBite fittings are certified to 200 PSI and 200°F (93°C).

SharkBite fittings are certified for use with:

• Copper pipe hard drawn Type K, L and M and annealed Type M not to exceed 3/8 nominal, complying with ASTM B88
• PEX pipe complying with ASTM F876 or CSA B137.5
• CPVC pipe complying with ASTM D2846 or CSA B137.6
• PE-RT pipe complying with ASTM F2769
• HDPE pipe complying with ASTM D2737 (SDR-9)

No, SharkBite fittings can only be used with hard drawn copper types K, L, and M.

Yes, the tube liner can easily be removed by pulling it past the O-ring, then with the aid of the SharkBite Disconnect Clip or Disconnect Tongs (both sold separately). The tube support liner can drop out of the fittings as it can move freely past the grab ring. Needle nose pliers may be used to pull the tube support liner out.

NOTE: The tube liner is necessary for use with PEX, HDPE or PE-RT Pipe. It is not required for copper or CPVC, however, it is not necessary to remove the tube liner from the fitting.

Insertion depth will depend on the size of the fitting.

• ¼ in. Pipe Insertion Depth = 13/16 in.
• ⅜ in. Pipe Insertion Depth = 15/16 in. 
• 1/2 in. Pipe Insertion Depth = 15/16 in. 
• 5/8 in. Pipe Insertion Depth = 1-1/8 in. 
• 3/4 in. Pipe Insertion Depth = 1-1/8 in. 
• 1 in. Pipe Insertion Depth = 1-5/16 in. 

In general, SharkBite fittings only leak due to one of these reasons:

• The pipe was not properly deburred prior to installation.
• The pipe was not properly inserted.
• The pipe was not squarely cut.
• The pipe has scratches or debris on the outside that is preventing the O-ring from getting a watertight seal.

Water systems should not be allowed to freeze. When water freezes, it expands and creates pressure that exceeds plumbing system pressure capabilities, i.e. pipes and fittings burst.

It is recommended to solder any joints prior to installing a SharkBite fitting. The heat from the torch can be transferred through the pipe and potentially damage the O-ring.

Yes, SharkBite fittings can be used for hydronic heating applications if the temperature does not exceed 200°F.

NOTE: Glycol mixture for hydronic is acceptable up to and including 100%.

Red, white and blue Potable Water PEX Tubing are exactly the same material and are certified for potable water applications. The different colors provide the ability to easily distinguish between hot and cold lines. The orange pipe is an oxygen barrier PEX Pipe used only for hydronic heating applications.

Insertion depth will depend on the size of the fitting.

• 1-1/4 in. Pipe Insertion Depth = 2 in. 
• 1-1/2 in. Pipe Insertion Depth = 2-1/4 in. 
• 2 in. Pipe Insertion Depth = 2-1/2 in. 

Yes, a tube liner is required when using the SharkBite large diameter fittings in conjunction with PEX, PE-RT or HDPE pipe. Tube liners are not required when using SharkBite large diameter fittings with copper or CPVC. The large diameter tube liners are sold separately.

SharkBite push-to-connect fittings are certified for use within a concealed wall, but consulting with local plumbing codes is recommended for specific applications. It is also recommended to pressure test the system prior to sealing up the wall.

SharkBite Universal fittings are suitable for burial in most applications; however care is required when using fittings in applications that require burial to ensure the correct installation practices are used and due care is given to any environmental factors that may have a detrimental effect on the life expectancy of the fittings and pipe. The installation of SharkBite Universal fittings in applications that will require the burial of the fitting must comply with all local plumbing code requirements. SharkBite Universal fittings and SharkBite PEX are not suitable for use in areas where the soil is or may become contaminated* including the soil used for backfilling. All SharkBite Universal fittings with brass bodies must have an impervious barrier between the fitting and the surrounding soil. Self-fusing, formaldehyde and chloride-free, fully cured silicone tape with a minimum thickness of 0.020 in. should be used for this purpose. The soil used for backfilling must be free of rocks, debris or any sharp objects that may cause damage to the fitting or pipe through impact or abrasion.

No, the standard SharkBite fittings (i.e. Coupling, Elbow, Tee) cannot be used as a dielectric union. The SharkBite Stainless Steel Braided Flexible Coupling Hoses can be used as a dielectric union.

SharkBite fittings are certified to ASSE 1061, NSF/ANSI 61, NSF/ANSI 14 and NSF/ANSI 372. They are listed by IAPMO and CSA. SharkBite fittings are compliant with the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC), National Plumbing Code of Canada and the International Plumbing Code (IPC). Since local code varies by area, please consult with local plumbing codes for specific applications.

SharkBite fittings and PEX pipe carry a 25-year warranty against any manufacturer’s defect as long as the item has been installed in accordance with the installation instructions and complies with local code.

For more information, read our full SharkBite Warranty.