Brass Push-to-Connect Fittings FAQs
SharkBite push-to-connect fittings are the core products within the SharkBite 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, secure seal. Browse our brass push products.
Pipe insertion depths for SharkBite fittings vary depending on the size of the fitting. Up-to-date pipe insertion depths can be found here.
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. Read more about behind-the-wall applications.
Yes. SharkBite brass push fittings are approved by IAPMO for underground applications as long the fitting is wrapped with silicone tape. Our self-fusing silicone tape that protects brass fittings from contaminants that can be found in ground conditions.
No. You don't need any specialized tools to connect SharkBite fittings. Although, 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. A SharkBite Disconnect Clip or Disconnect Tongs are required to remove a SharkBite fitting.
Yes. SharkBite fittings can be reused for testing purposes but any fitting used repeatedly for testing should not be used in a permanent installation.
Yes. SharkBite fittings can be rotated after installation. Rotating the fitting will not affect the integrity of the joint.
No. SharkBite fittings are only certified for potable water & radiant heating installations.
SharkBite (1st Generation) fittings are certified to 200 psi and 200°F (93°C). Standard configurations of SharkBite Max — including elbows, couplings, adapters, caps and tees in most available sizes — are rated to 400 psi. Please reference the specific product’s specification sheet for temperature and pressure ratings as not all assemblies are rated for 400 psi and 200°F due to limitations of certain assembly components.
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.
The tube liner in SharkBite (1st Generation) fittings can easily be removed by pulling it past the o-ring, 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. The SharkBite (1st Generation) 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.
Because of its new design, SharkBite Max fittings don’t require a PEX tube liner, making installations simpler especially when working on copper and CPVC. When using SharkBite Max polybutylene adapters, a tube liner is included and required on the polybutylene end (gray collar). When using on HDPE SDR-9 pipe, a tube liner is required and needs to be supplied directly from the pipe manufacturer.
SharkBite fittings can 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.
Review installation instructions to ensure you've followed the correct steps. If still having issues, don't hesitate to contact our support team.
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%.
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.
Depends on the item. The standard SharkBite fittings (i.e. Coupling, Elbow, Tee) cannot be used as a dielectric union. However, SharkBite Stainless Steel Braided Flexible Coupling Hoses can be used as a dielectric union.
To view the full list of SharkBite brass push approvals, visit a product page for one of our Brass Push products. 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.