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Many plumbing professionals prefer using stainless steel PEX clamps instead of crimp rings when connecting piping systems. That’s because PEX clamps are easier to install, especially in tight spaces. They are also easier to remove if you make any mistake.
Nonetheless, it is crucial to understand how to remove PEX clamps correctly to avoid damaging the components of your piping system.
So, how to remove PEX clamps without damaging your piping? There are two simple ways that can be used to remove PEX clamps: using an end cutter as a tool or your bare hands. Using your bare hands may take some elbow grease than using a tool, but it still gets the job done without damaging your piping.
Removing a Stainless Steel PEX Clamp Using an End Cutter
Although you can eliminate the fittings without the tools, you are strongly advised to use them. Using tools such as end cutters makes it safer and more convenient for you to get the job done.
Follow the steps below to remove PEX clamps with an end cutter:
Step 1: Position Pipe Cutters
Position pipe cutters perpendicular to the pipe to cut off the ear of the clamp. Make sure the cut is near the fitting.
Leave about ½ to ¾ inch of pipe to make it easier to hold the pipe with pliers when pulling it from the fitting.
Step 2: Press the End Cutter’s Handles
With the cutting jaw placed on either side of the clamp ear, press the end cutter’s handles until the jaws snap completely through the clamp ear.
Next, hold one of the cut ends with the jaws, opening and removing the clamp from the pipe.
Step 3: Remove the Pipe
With a twisting motion, remove the pipe from the fitting while gripping the PEX pipe with pliers. You can cut partway through the pipe to get it off if necessary.
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How to Remove PEX Clamps Without Tools
No tools? No need to worry. You can remove PEX Clamps with just your bare hands. Although this approach may take some elbow grease than using a tool, it still gets the job done.
Follow these steps to remove PEX clamps without tools:
Step 1: Remove the Adhesives
Remove the fittings or adhesives with your bare hands. You accomplish this by simply turning the joint in an anti-clockwise direction to loosen the joint.
Step 2: Pull the PEX Materials
Once you remove the adhesives, you need to pull the PEX materials with your hands from where they are attached. Perform this task slowly and gently to avoid injuries during the process.
Step 3: Disconnect the Materials
The final step is to disconnect the materials that make up the structure. You should be careful to avoid causing any irreversible damage to the materials during this process.
You also need to assemble all the components firmly to ensure they don’t get lost.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better PEX crimp or clamp?
Crimping and clamping both make reliable seals when done properly. Choosing between the two comes to personal preference.
Stainless steel clamp rings resist corrosion better than copper crimp rings. PEX clamps are also easier to remove.
Can you reuse PEX fittings?
When done correctly, yes, you can reuse PEX fittings. In some circumstances, crimping more than once is acceptable so long as the gauge tool fits well in the GO spot, but not in the NO GO spot (meaning you did not over crimp).
Is Pex crimp reliable?
Pex crimping somehow makes more reliable and secure connections compared to the clamping method. It uses a Go/No Go gauge to check whether the connections are properly sealed.
Conclusion
Removing stainless steel PEX clamps can be challenging if you don’t know how to handle the entire process, and you may even end up with costly and permanent damages. We hope you find this article helpful if you want to learn how to remove PEX clamps correctly. You can check out ToolGrader for more valuable tips and information about woodworking tools.
