FAQ: Can Sharkbite Fittings Be Buried Underground?

Who says SharkBite fittings can’t be used underground? It’s time to set the record straight: Yes, SharkBite brass push fittings can be used underground.

How long will a SharkBite last underground?

As you may already know, our SharkBite fittings are made of brass, which is susceptible to corrosion when exposed to severe ground conditions. Any underground application of SharkBite fittings must be wrapped in order to maintain the 25 year warranty.

Can SharkBite PEX be buried?

Can SharkBite PEX pipe be buried? Yes, SharkBite PEX pipe is approved to AWWA C904 which covers PEX pipe in regards to burial. PEX pipe can be used as a service line based on its corrosion resistance to soil and water, its long life, and its oxidative resistance.

Why you shouldn’t use SharkBite fittings?

A SharkBite fitting contains a rubber O-ring, which is not best for permanent connections. We don’t recommend using a SharkBite fitting outside because sunlight can dry out the rubber O-ring and cause it to crack or split.

Are SharkBite fittings rated for outdoor use?

Using SharkBite for Outdoor Fixtures Some SharkBite solutions used for indoor installations can also be used on the same fixtures outside. A versatile plumbing solution, push-to-connect fittings can be exposed outside, but if they are going in the ground, they must be wrapped with an impermeable material.

Are shark bites as good as solder?

So far they seem to be just as reliable, although given that they’ve only been on the market for a few years they don’t have the same history as soldered connections. Here in the UK almost all new-build houses use push-fit connectors for concealed work as it’s much quicker and easier.

Do plumbers use SharkBite fittings?

SharkBite fittings have been used quite frequently by do-it-yourselfers in order to accomplish small plumbing tasks. Although they are more expensive than regular connections, the simplicity of pushing these pieces on rather than using solder makes for a hassle free installation.

Which pipe is best for underground water supply?

HDPE (High Density Polyethylene) pipes are a considered the best choice for underground water lines. What makes this type of piping so great? HDPE pipes are non-toxic, tasteless, and considered a green building material. The pipes are designed to be high crack- and corrosion-resistant.

What type of PEX is best for underground?

Nowadays, PEX tubing is quickly replacing traditional copper and galvanized steel pipes and is an exceptional option for underground piping.

• PEX tubing is approved for direct burial outdoors.
• PEX-B is the first choice for burying due to its higher bursting pressure and reduced issues with leached chemicals.

Is PEX OK to run underground?

Some plumbing contractors may be surprised to know that PEX is approved for use in underground as well as in-slab applications. Installing PEX pipe in the slab or underground can help reduce costs because there are no hangers required and less ladder time for installers (adding to installation efficiencies).

Why are SharkBite fittings illegal in California?

CA has a powerful plumbing lobby and they don’t like homeowners having access to easier products. CA has strict anti-lead legislation where many brass fixtures still contain a percentage of lead.

Do shark bites work on copper?

SharkBite brass push-to-connect fittings are compatible with PEX, Copper, CPVC, PE-RT and HDPE pipe. SharkBite fittings come with a PEX stiffener pre-loaded into the fitting for PEX, PE-RT and HDPE. The PEX stiffener does not need to be removed for Copper or CPVC applications.

Do shark bites reduce water flow?

Do sharkbite fittings reduce flow rate? Technically the answer is absolutely no. They will not effect pressure at all. They may effect flow rates and while theoretically different there is a real correlation between the two.

Can SharkBite fittings be permanent?

Properly installed SharkBite fittings provide permanent connections, backed by a 25-year warranty against any manufacturer’s defect as long as the item has been installed according to installation instructions and compliant with local code.

Do shark bites leak?

SharkBite fittings are designed to create a leak-proof seal. When a SharkBite fitting does leak, the first thing you’ll want to do is see if the pipe is connected to the fitting correctly. By disconnecting and reconnecting the pipe, you may fix the problem.