Funny how the “quick fixes” from past owners always end up being the longest jobs to sort out.
That’s so true, and honestly, it’s been my biggest headache with this house. Every time I open a wall, it’s like a time capsule of shortcuts. Testing every crimp twice is smart—gives me some peace of mind too. I’m sticking close to 60 psi as well, just feels safer in the long run. Feels good knowing others are in the same boat.
- 100% agree about the “quick fixes” being a nightmare. I swear, my crawlspace is like a museum of questionable decisions.
- Double-checking crimps is a must. I’ve found leaks months later that I thought were fine the first time.
- 60 psi seems like a good sweet spot. I’ve read some folks push it higher, but honestly, why risk it? Less stress on the pipes means less chance of micro-leaks down the road.
- One thing I wonder—have you noticed any difference in longevity between copper and PEX under similar pressure? My old copper lines seem to hold up, but I’m always second-guessing if I should swap more to PEX...
I’ve been wrestling with the same question. My house has a weird mix—original copper in some spots, PEX in others where we had to fix leaks. Honestly, the copper’s older than me and still going strong, but I’ve had a couple pinhole leaks pop up in the last year. PEX is way easier to work with, but I’m always kinda paranoid about the fittings. Haven’t seen any big issues yet, but it’s only been a few years. I keep the pressure at 60 too... feels safer, especially with all these weird connections under the house.
I totally get that “weird mix” feeling—been there myself. Honestly, copper’s legendary for lasting, but once those pinhole leaks start, it’s like a warning shot. PEX is a game changer for DIY fixes, even if the fittings make you nervous. You’re smart keeping pressure at 60; I’ve seen folks crank it up and regret it later.
PEX is way easier to work with, but I’m always kinda paranoid about the fittings.
That’s fair, but most issues I’ve seen with PEX come from rushed installs or cheap connectors. If you did it right, you’re probably in better shape than you think. Sometimes mixing old and new isn’t ideal, but honestly, it’s how most houses evolve. Don’t sweat it too much—sounds like you’re ahead of the curve.
- Gotta push back a bit on the “don’t sweat it” part—mixing copper and PEX isn’t always smooth sailing.
- Dielectric corrosion can sneak up if you’re not careful with the transition fittings.
- I’ve had to redo a section where a previous owner used the wrong brass connector and it started leaking after just a few years.
- Also, older copper can sometimes react weirdly with new water chemistry if you’ve changed filtration or softeners.
- Not saying it’s doomed, but I’d keep an eye on those joints, especially in crawlspaces or behind walls... learned that one the hard way.