Why has my plumber recommended the PureFlow Plumbing System instead of copper?
Your plumber, like thousands of others across the country, is upgrading to new technology to provide a cleaner, safer, simpler, and easier system to install. Just as copper replaced black iron pipes generations ago, new technology from Viega is replacing copper in new and existing homes. The PureFlow Plumbing Systems offer three forms of ViegaPEX tubing: ViegaPEX, ViegaPEX Ultra and FostaPEX. Unlike copper, all forms of Viega tubing offer proven resistance to chemically aggressive water conditions and temperature aging for longer life expectancy. Viega tubing meets strict ASTM standards in addition to UPC and international codes for potable water systems.
What about water quality?
Viega has been in the pure water business for over a century. For more than 25 years, the Viega PureFlow Plumbing Systems have met and exceeded every international standard for water purity. Some of the international standards Viega has exceeded includes NSF, IAPMO and ICC-ES. To assure the highest water and product quality, all listings are based upon testing against the following standards: ANSI/NSF 14, ANSI/NSF 61, ASTM F 876, and ASTM F 877. Additional plumbing code and standard information is available at: astm.org, iapmo.org, icc-es.org, nsf.org.
What about the durability of ViegaPEX vs. copper?
Unlike copper, ViegaPEX tubing resists denting, crimping and puncture that's common with thin walled copper pipe. Copper splits when pipes freeze and is susceptible to corrosion from chemicals such as chlorine, calcium and iron in the water. ViegaPEX tubing is chemically inert so it will not react to chemicals in the water. ViegaPEX tubing is produced by the industry's highest standards of quality assurance.
How is ViegaPEX different than ordinary plastic tubing?
Don't confuse ViegaPEX with ordinary PEX tubing sold in home improvement stores. ViegaPEX is a proven crosslinked polyethylene tubing material that is flexible yet very durable. The crosslinking process restructures the molecules of the polyethylene so they are formed similarly to a chain-link fence. This molecular structure gives the tubing enormous strength and desirable longevity for permanent building installation. ViegaPEX offers superior chlorine resistance and is especially well suited for recirculating applications.
What makes ViegaPEX Ultra different?
Like ViegaPEX, ViegaPEX Ultra offers superior chlorine resistance and protection against corrosion and freezing. In addition, ViegaPEX Ultra provides exceptional protection against UV rays for applications in areas where tubing could be exposed outdoors for up to six months. This not only improves durability, it also prevents algae growth in the tubing.
What is FostaPEX?
FostaPEX is a fully dimensional PEX tubing surrounded with an aluminum and PE outer layer for form stability and protection. FostaPEX can be bent holding its shape, and has an expansion rate similar to that of copper. The form stability of FostaPEX dramatically reduces expansion noise and "water hammer".
Does ViegaPEX tubing have any other advantages over copper or CPVC?
Yes. Because the tubing is flexible, it can bend around where a rigid system would require a joint. With fewer fittings or joints buried in the wall Viega PEX tubing provides increased security. In addition, ViegaPEX minimizes the "water hammer" noise common with rigid pipes.
What are the costs of ViegaPEX systems?
The material costs of ViegaPEX tubing is less than comparable lengths of copper pipe. In addition, thanks to its flexibility and faster connection technology, the installation costs can be significantly less than copper.
What kind of warranty is offered?
Viega offers a 10-year fully transferable, limited warranty on our PureFlow product line when installed by a licensed plumber.
Can I add ViegaPEX to my existing home?
Yes. The flexibility and easy connections of Viega PureFlow Plumbing Systems make it ideal for retrofit applications, especially where new tubing must be installed in existing finished walls.
What is the MANABLOC system?
The MANABLOC modular manifold system is a master control center for your household water. Think of it as a "fuse box" for your water system, controlling the flow of hot and cold water to every faucet, toilet or appliance from one central location. When you need to shut off water to an individual fixture, simply turn the individually labeled shut off valve at the MANABLOC control unit. There's no need to shut off the main water supply or struggle with hard to access shut off valves.
