When installing a PEX plumbing system, one of the most important decisions is choosing between plastic and brass fittings. Both have their advantages and disadvantages in terms of cost, durability, ease of installation, and longevity. Here is an in-depth comparison of plastic vs brass PEX fittings to help you decide which is the better option for your plumbing project.
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Cost Comparison
One of the biggest differences between plastic and brass PEX fittings is cost. Plastic fittings are generally made from engineered plastics like PEX or CPVC. They are very affordable, with prices ranging from $0.50 – $3 per fitting on average. Brass fittings are made from brass alloy and are significantly more expensive, with prices from $4 – $12 per fitting on average depending on size and style.
| Fitting Type | Average Cost Per Fitting |
|---|---|
| Plastic PEX | $1 |
| Brass PEX | $8 |
Plastic is the clear winner when it comes to cost and budget. Going with plastic PEX fittings can save you 50-75% on material costs over brass. This adds up to major savings for large plumbing projects.
Durability
Durability and longevity is another key consideration when selecting PEX fittings. Plastic fittings are generally reliable and durable enough for residential water supply applications. However, brass is more rigid and durable over the very long-term.
Plastic fittings are engineered to withstand water pressures up to 200 PSI and temperatures up to 180°F. They can last 20-25 years or longer under normal conditions before needing to be replaced. On the other hand, brass fittings can easily last 50+ years and are not prone to cracking or wearing out like plastic.
The main downside of brass is that it’s prone to dezincification corrosion when exposed to soft or acidic water. This can cause brass fittings to fail prematurely. Plastic fittings do not have this corrosion issue. Overall, brass has the edge for durability but requires more maintenance.
Ease of Installation
Installation is faster and easier with plastic PEX fittings compared to brass. Plastic fittings are designed for push-to-connect or crimp connections. This allows for quick and simple installation without soldering or gluing.
Brass fittings require soldering, brazing, or threaded connections. This adds time and complexity to the installation process. Soldering brass fittings also requires handling a torch and hot solder, which can increase safety risks.
Additionally, plastic PEX is highly flexible and easier to maneuver than rigid copper pipes with brass fittings during installation. The simplicity and flexibility of plastic gives it the advantage for DIY and new plumbing installations.
Longevity
For maximum lifelong performance, brass PEX fittings are the better choice over plastic. Brass has superior strength and corrosion resistance. This allows it to last for decades without failure or leaks.
Plastic fittings may only last 20-25 years before becoming brittle and prone to cracking failures. The plastic material degrades slowly over time, especially when exposed to UV light. While plastic should hold up fine under normal conditions, it does not match the extreme longevity of brass.
If your goal is to install fittings that will last as long as possible without needing replacement, brass is the winner for longevity. However, plastic has adequate longevity for most residential applications.
Flow Rate
Brass PEX fittings allow for slightly better water flow rates compared to plastic fittings of the same size. The smooth interior surface of brass provides less friction loss, allowing water to flow through more freely.
Plastic fittings have marginally higher friction loss due to the plastic material’s surface. However, for most residential supply lines, the difference in flow rate between brass and plastic is negligible. Both offer adequate flow for sinks, showers, appliances, etc.
If maximizing water flow is critical, such as for a commercial building, boiler system, or fire suppression system, brass may provide a slight advantage. But for typical homes, plastic PEX will usually flow just as well as brass.
Freezing Resistance
Plastic PEX pipe and fittings have better resistance to freezing compared to copper or brass. Plastic is more flexible and can expand without bursting if water inside freezes and expands. Brass and copper are rigid and prone to splitting under freezing pressure.
If you live in a region with cold winters, plastic systems handle frozen pipes better. They are less likely to rupture and cause major water damage. Plastic’s flexibility gives it an advantage for cold weather climates.
Chemical Resistance
One advantage of brass over plastic is better chemical resistance. Brass is unaffected by exposure to most household chemicals, hot sulfur water, or water treatments like chlorine.
Plastic fittings have the potential to degrade over time with chemical exposure. Cleaners, disinfectants, sulfur water, and chlorine can all accelerate wear and damage. Brass is the better choice if chemical resistance is important.
Appearance
Brass fittings add visual appeal to exposed plumbing lines with their clear golden shine. Plastic has a dull grey look. If appearance matters, brass is more attractive.
However, for most homes, fittings are hidden behind walls or cabinets. Only you will see the difference, so appearance should not be a major deciding factor.
Noise
One downside to brass fittings is increased water flow noise. Brass conducts sound better than plastic. This can lead to resonant pipe noises as water flows through brass fitting connections.
Plastic dampens noises for quieter performance. If water noise from pipes is an issue, plastic system may be preferable. However, with proper anchoring, noise can be reduced regardless of fitting material.
Pros of Plastic PEX Fittings:
- Very affordable price
- Easy push-fit or crimp connections
- Flexible for easier installation
- Resistant to freezing damage
- Dampens water flow noises
Cons of Plastic Fittings:
- Prone to UV and chemical damage
- Potential for cracks and leaks as plastic degrades
- Shorter lifespan than brass (20-25 years vs. 50+ years)
Pros of Brass Fittings:
- Extremely durable for 50+ year lifespan
- Excellent corrosion resistance
- Maximizes water flow rate
- Better resistance to chemical exposure
- More attractive golden appearance
Cons of Brass Fittings:
- Expensive material cost
- Requires soldering or brazing for installation
- Prone to dezincification corrosion
- Potential for flow noises
- Can burst if pipes freeze
Conclusion
For most residential plumbing projects, plastic PEX fittings present the better overall value. The low cost, ease of installation, adequate durability, and noise dampening of plastic make it the ideal choice for the majority of homeowners and DIYers.
Brass fittings excel in terms of longevity, flow rate, and chemical resistance. These factors may make brass the preferable option for large commercial systems or specialized applications. However, brass comes at a steep price premium over plastic.
In summary, plastic PEX fittings are recommended for typical home plumbing. Brass can provide benefits for certain systems, but is overkill for general use. Consider your specific needs in terms of budget, ease of installation, and expected lifespan when deciding between plastic vs brass PEX fittings for your next plumbing project.