Attaching RODI to PEX plumbing
 

I was looking to set up my RODI to the cold water line in the utility room, but discovered last night that the plumbing is completely done in ... not pvc, not copper, and not threaded vinyl... after some quick research I think it might be PEX. (can attach a picture tonight).

Has anyone any experience with attaching RODI to PEX plumbing? I assume I can't use the needle clamp thing that I wanted to.... Will I have to do it in line? Do I need special fittings?

:help:

Do you think it would work to cut the line (if I can find somewhere to cut it), put in two PEX-PVC sharkbite push to connect fittings, and run a small PVC line between them and then clamp the RODI to the PVC?

Or something like this (eliminate the PVC entirely...)

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y22...83-300x229.jpg

Sharkbite connection should work, you just need to find an adapter to step down the size to the small diameter RODI tubing. I have copper, not PEX, but the photo below should give an idea of what's possible. I found a push type step down fitting at Can Tire. I'd say most stores dealing in plumbing fittings should have something similar.

You definitely want to include a shut off valve so that the RODI isn't under constant pressure.

https://tsl4pa.blu.livefilestore.com...ion.JPG?psid=1

EDIT: Was responding while you posted the last photo of the metal fitting, looks like that should work just great.

What I've done before is cut the Pex, install a Pex suitable tee, reconnect it. On the end of the tee use this fitting (buy a good quality one, not a cheap one):

http://guideimg.alibaba.com/images/s...pe_2238894.jpg



Or, if you can find it, use this one:
http://www.sanitarytek.com/upload/an...ve-V22-432.jpg

There is no point introducing pvc into the supply line.

I would:
Tee off from your main line with PEX crimp fittings
Run a branch over to the RO unit.
Add a ball valve where convenient to operate.
Then step it down to a 1/4" quick connect to go to the RO unit.

This ensures that the main lines in the house are using pex crimp rings. The quick connect is after a valve so that if any issues arise you can ensure that its off.

Personally I don't trust the shark-bit fittings or any other quick connects.
The slightest damage to the exterior of the pipe before installation or the o-rings during and you have potential for failure.

PEX crimp tool is pretty expensive for the one small job that I would be using it for. =/

Probably a lot cheaper than your insurance deductible for a flooded house.
Most hardware stores rent them for $10-$15 for 4hrs.

If you have a sink nearby you could use screw on adapter on a water supply line. I rely like this one :biggrin:
http://cdn.bulkreefsupply.com/media/...-grouped-a.jpg

I currently have it attached under a sink, but I want to keep it out of the bathroom (which is where the sink is).