Uponor PEX & Spray Foam Insulation

Uponor hePEX and AquaPEX tubing is approved for use with closed-cell spray foam insulation. Direct contact with such insulation does not void the warranty on hePEX, AquaPEX, or brass ProPEX fittings, as long as temperatures of the insulation do not exceed 250°F due to chemical reactions during the application. To avoid this situation, Uponor recommends a 15 minute break after applying each 2” layer. Do not use spray foam insulation with Uponor’s Engineered Polymer (EP) fittings unless the fittings are covered with waterproof protection.

Rigid PEX Supports

The flexibility of PEX tubing makes it an attractive option for both new construction and retrofit plumbing and heating installations. PEX’s flexibility makes it easier to run, reduces the number of necessary fittings, and gives it added freeze resistance. One minor downside is that PEX can be more difficult to run through walls. Uponor’s Metal Straight-Through Supports provide a safe and easy way to pass 1/2” PEX tubing through a floor, wall, or ceiling. The zinc-plated supports have four nail holes, cover 3-1/2” of a piece of tubing, and are available on SupplyHouse.com.

SharkBite 2XL Fittings

SharkBite push-fit fittings revolutionized plumbing and hydronic heating, making installations and repairs faster and easier for professionals and do-it-yourselfers alike. Previously available in sizes only up to 1”, SharkBite now makes fittings for larger pipe. SharkBite 2XL fittings work with 1-1/4”, 1-1/2”, and 2” PEX, copper, and CPVC.

Use PEX stiffeners for PEX connections and “Shark Shifter” De-Mount Tools to remove any 2XL fitting (both available separately). Find the complete line of SharkBite fittings on SupplyHouse.com.

Mini-Splits for Multiple Zones

Are you looking for a new air conditioning solution this summer? Consider installing a ductless mini-split air conditioning system. Mini-Splits are a quiet and efficient alternative to window units and central air systems. They make it easy to set up zones in different rooms. Multi-Split outdoor units work with multiple indoor units, which are controlled independently.

Please note that multi-split compressors only work with between two and four indoor units. If you try to run a multi-split unit with only one indoor component, refrigerant returning to the compressor will cause a error code.

SupplyHouse.com carries Panasonic and LG mini-split systems.

Primary/Secondary Piping

Primary/Secondary piping hydraulically isolates circuits of a hydronic heating system, potentially decreasing circulator pump sizes. It’s necessary with condensing boilers or tankless water heaters used for heating in order to overcome the large pressure drop through the heat source.

You can create primary/secondary piping with closely-spaced tees, but use Taco’s Hydraulic Separator or Bell & Gossett’s Primary/Secondary Header to make the job easier. Available in several sizes and configurations, these devices even include an air vent. To find more heating supplies, go to SupplyHouse.com.

Mini-Split Inverter Technology

Ductless Mini-Split air conditioners combine indoor evaporator units with outdoor condensers and are available in single-zone and multi-zone configurations. Among the many advantages offered by mini-split systems is inverter technology. It modifies the speed of compressor rotations based on the necessary heat output. Traditional compressor motors operate at a fixed speed, which reduces efficiency and shrinks a system's range of cooling output. Additionally, inverter units consume less electricity and operate more quietly than standard models. SupplyHouse.com carries mini-split systems from LG and Panasonic.

ThermaPEX Oxygen Barrier Tubing

ThermaPEX PEX tubing is graded PEX-A, which gives it increased flexibility and makes it easier to work with. Compatible with expansion-type fittings, ThermaPEX’s oxygen barrier allows you to use it in closed-loop hydronic heating systems. ThermaPEX’s bend radius gives it another major advantage. While most PEX tubing can only be bent to a radius equal to six-times its outside diameter, ThermaPEX is capable of a four-times-the-OD radius. To purchase ThermaPEX in 3/8”, 1/2”, 5/8”, 3/4”, and 1” coils, please visit www.supplyhouse.com.

Connect PEX to Copper

SupplyHouse.com stocks a wide variety of fittings that make it possible to connect PEX to copper. Learn about the different options in our new video, “Connecting PEX Tubing to Copper Pipe.” Whether you own PEX tools, a soldering torch, or no tools at all, the parts you need are at SupplyHouse.com.

FostaPEX Prep Tool

Viega FostaPEX tubing contains an aluminum layer, but its dimensions differ from standard PEX-Aluminum-PEX. FostaPEX only works with one kind of fitting: PEX Press. While PEX Press fittings also work with any kind of standard, SDR-9 PEX tubing, make sure you prepare FostaPEX tubing properly prior to making any connections.

Use Viega’s FostaPEX Prep Tool to do this. Available in two configurations (one for 1/2” and 3/4” tubing and one for 5/8” and 1”), the tool peels back the outer layers of the FostaPEX and makes it compatible with PEX Press fittings. Visit SupplyHouse.com today to purchase more Viega products.

Milwaukee Laser Thermometer

The Milwaukee Laser TEMP-GUN Thermometer provides an easy and safe way to measure almost any temperature. With a temperature range of -20°F to 932°F (-30°C to 450°C), the thermometer operates on three AA batteries (which are included). Use the gun to get temperature readings for unreachable surfaces or items that are too hot to touch. The gun features an easy-to-read display and a solid grip. It is available on SupplyHouse.com.

Rifeng Manifold Packages

Rifeng radiant heat manifolds are stainless steel and available with between two and twelve loops. Use the proper EK20 fittings to connect 3/8”, 1/2”, or 5/8” PEX or PEX-AL-PEX tubing to the manifolds. All Rifeng manifolds come with flow meters, as well as shut-off valves with temperature gauges. Manifold “packages” include loop fittings for each supply and return connection for the specified tubing and size.

Honeywell F76S Pre-filters

Use Honeywell F76S brass water filters to remove sediment and other debris from your water supply. F76S models are easy to clean and ideal as pre-filters for well water lines. Available in sizes ranging from 1/2” to 2”, their clear plastic sumps allow you to view internal components. 100-micron screens come standard, with other sizes obtainable by request. Visit SupplyHouse.com to purchase these and other Honeywell products.