One of the most frequently asked questions when people are planning an outdoor water system is, “Does the pipe size of PEX really matter?” The answer to this is a big “yes!” Right pipe size selection is one very important determinant of how well your system will run efficiently and deliver the best possible water flow while being sustainable in the long term. Let’s dive a bit deeper into the reasons why pipe size matters for your PEX pipes and how to make the best choice based on your needs for an outdoor water line.
Understanding PEX Pipe: The Basics
Before we explore how pipe size really matters, let us first try to get a feel for what PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) pipe is. PEX pipe is a flexible, durable material of significant cost advantages which has proved to be so popular for various applications of supplying potable water. It is highly popular with underground installations because it does not fracture and crack easily. However, not all PEX pipes are created equal-there are different types and sizes that are designed for different purposes.
Why PEX Pipe Size Matters
When installing a water system, whether for a home or outdoor boiler, the diameter of the PEX pipe determines the flow rate and pressure of the water. Using a pipe that is too small may lead to insufficient water supply, while using one that’s too large can increase installation costs unnecessarily.
For underground water lines, a 1-inch PEX underground water line is often the preferred choice. The 1-inch size strikes a balance between providing adequate water flow and maintaining sufficient water pressure for systems that need to deliver water over longer distances or to multiple fixtures.
1-Inch PEX Pipe: The Gold Standard for Underground Use
For outdoor applications, the 1-inch PEX pipe underground is widely regarded as the best option. This size allows for an optimal flow rate, minimizing the chances of water pressure loss over long distances. It is especially ideal for coupling outside boilers, irrigation systems, or any high scale water system.
What is more, selecting the right type of PEX piping for underground use, it is necessary to opt for pre-insulated PEX pipe for outdoor underground. The insulation protects the pipe against extreme temperature conditions. It will help in preventing freezing in cold climates and maintains water temperature throughout
Oxygen Barrier PEX vs. Non-Oxygen Barrier PEX
Another important feature when selecting a PEX pipe is whether to choose Oxygen Barrier PEX or Non-Oxygen Barrier PEX.
Oxygen Barrier PEX is the most commonly used in hydronic heating. Water in this application is heated, and the oxygen barrier prevents rust and corrosion by depriving the water system of oxygen. That is helpful with heating boilers.
Non-Oxygen Barrier PEX is good for potable water applications as well as other non-heating applications. Because there is no requirement to exclude oxygen from entering the water, this is generally less expensive but still provides a very good performance in outdoor water line applications.
Remember To Finish It With End Caps
Proper sealing in any PEX pipe system is significant because this minimizes the chances of leakage and long-term performance. Sometimes, an end cap would be used to close off a PEX line during an installation. So it is crucial that the end caps you invest in are at par with the best qualities suited to the size and type of PEX pipe system you have.
Choosing the right size for your outdoor water line
In the selection of a PEX pipe, the following are to be considered for sizing.
- Water Demand: A large-household or bigger systems require a higher pipe size as such tends to have big demands for water like irrigation or outdoor boilers to flow properly.
- Distance: The distance the water has to travel is an important factor in pipe size. A 1-inch PEX pipe will typically handle longer distances more effectively than smaller sizes.
- System Pressure: Proper pipe sizing ensures that water pressure remains consistent throughout the system. Undersized pipes may result in pressure loss, leading to weaker water flow.
Conclusion
In summary, PEX pipe size matters more than you might think, especially for underground installations. Opting for a 1-inch PEX underground water line provides a balance between efficient water flow and maintaining adequate pressure, making it a popular choice for outdoor applications. Whether you need an oxygen barrier or a non-oxygen barrier PEX depends on the specific requirements of your system; end caps must always be in your installation checklist to avoid leaks.
Next time when you plan an outdoor project, make sure to get the right size PEX pipe for long-lasting performance and a stress-free installation. Visit OutdoorBoiler.com for high-quality PEX pipes and pre-insulated options to protect your underground water lines from extreme temperatures!
