Plumbing: Using the SharkBite Connector

The SharkBite connectors are plumbing fittings that eliminate the need for soldering. SkarkBites use a technologically advanced push-on fit design that when used properly can be used with cooper pipe, pvc pipe, and pex pipe. Although SharkBite connectors are still considered too expensive to fit an entire new home with, a SharkBite can be a real lifesaver for the homeowner with a leaky pipe. SharkBites in effect can turn the homeowner into a plumber. I keep a couple of SharkBite end caps on hand at the house in case I have to cap a burst pipe or some other emergency arises. The SharkBite can save you a fortune in emergency plumbing bills in the right situation. The SharkBite fitting will cost

Like anything else, knowing when, where, and how to use a SharkBite is critical. Take for example the situation where you have a slow dripping copper pipe that must be capped to stop the dripping. Soldering the cap won't work because the water makes the pipe wet and impossible to solder. But a Sharkbite can cap the end in a second with no tools. Let's see how that's done.

To cap the end of the dripping copper pipe first make sure the end of the copper pipe is clean and has no micro-dings in it. It would be a good idea to saw off two inches if possible to start with a clean edge. Also very important is to clean the pipe with sandpaper to remove any burs. The SharkBite will need a full inch of copper pipe to hold properly. Whatever type of pipe your working with should be clean and free of imperfections.

HOW TO USE
When the SharkBite is fit onto the copper pipe, push the Sharkbite onto the pipe a full inch. It is a good idea to mark off an inch on the pipe so you know you have got the SharkBite on all the way. The SharkBite has a release collar on it which the copper pipe will first pass through. The copper pipe will then catch on a stainless steel grab ring that the SharkBite has inside it. The grab ring that is built into the SharkBite has teeth that open out and will grip copper pipe.
Continued pressure must be kept on the SharkBite at this stage because the copper pipe mist be pushed through a special o-ring that compresses in between the wall of the Sharkbite and the copper pipe just before the copper pipe reaches the end of the SharkBite. The Sharkbite must be pressed onto the copper pipe a full one inch to get a proper grasp. Use a slight twisting motion when pressing the SharkBite on. When pressure on the Sharkbite is removed the SharkBite is now permanently capped onto the copper pipe, although it can be removed with a special tool supplied by SharkBite and used again.

WHERE CAN A SHARKBITE BE USE
Before using a SharkeBite you should find out if they are considered up to plumbing code in your are. SharkBites are sold at your Home Depot and they will know if SharkBites are up to code in your area. That is the easiest way to find out. You may prefer to find out from your local town or city.

WHEN SHOULD A SHARKBITE BE USED
Obviously a SharkBite is a great fitting to have during an emergency, but should you use one inside of a wall, for example during a room remodel? The SharkBite has been certified for use in this manner by various plumbing regulatory agencies, but you will want to consult with local plumbing codes again. In my experience with the SharkBite, plumbers do not like them for anything other than an emergency fix. But of course you must consider the source and make up your own mind. I can say that in researching the SharkBite through the manufacture re at SharkBitePlumbing.com the forums and message boards of major DIY websites, I have not come across even one instance where anyone had an experience where a SharkBite failed in any application. I found the Sharkbite to be very easy to use and valuable in many applications. In fact a SharkBite saved me from an emergency plumbing bill on two occasions.