Pex pipe ban in california: everything you need to know

PEX, or cross-linked polyethylene, is a flexible and durable plastic piping material that has gained popularity in plumbing applications. However, there have been concerns about the safety of PEX pipe, leading to questions about whether it is banned in California. This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the current status of PEX pipe in California, addressing any misconceptions and providing factual information.

The History of PEX Pipe in California

PEX pipe was first introduced in California in the 1980s as an alternative to traditional copper and galvanized steel pipes. Its flexibility and ease of installation made it an attractive option for both residential and commercial plumbing systems. However, in 2004, the California Department of Public Health (CDPH) issued a health advisory expressing concerns about the potential leaching of chemicals from PEX pipe into drinking water.

The CDPH Health Advisory

The CDPH health advisory cited studies that showed the presence of certain chemicals, such as formaldehyde and acetaldehyde, in water that had been in contact with PEX pipe. These chemicals are known carcinogens and have been linked to a range of health problems. As a result, the CDPH recommended that PEX pipe not be used in plumbing systems that supply drinking water.

The Response from the PEX Industry

The PEX industry responded to the CDPH health advisory by conducting further testing and research. They argued that the studies cited by the CDPH were flawed and that PEX pipe met all safety standards. They also pointed out that PEX pipe is widely used in other countries without any reported health concerns.

The Current Status of PEX Pipe in California

Despite the CDPH health advisory, PEX pipe is not banned in California. However, it is still not recommended for use in plumbing systems that supply drinking water. In 2016, the CDPH issued a revised health advisory that clarified that PEX pipe can be used for non-potable water applications, such as irrigation and radiant floor heating.

Where Can PEX Pipe Be Used in California?

PEX pipe can be used in California for the following non-potable water applications:

• Irrigation systems
• Radiant floor heating
• Fire sprinkler systems
• Industrial and commercial plumbing

What Are the Alternatives to PEX Pipe?

If you are concerned about the potential health risks associated with PEX pipe, there are several alternative piping materials available, including:

• Copper
• Galvanized steel
• Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC)
• Polypropylene (PP)

Recommendations: Navigating the Complexity

The question of whether PEX pipe is banned in California is not straightforward. While it is not banned outright, its use in plumbing systems that supply drinking water is strongly discouraged by the CDPH. However, PEX pipe remains a viable option for non-potable water applications. When choosing a piping material for your plumbing system, it is important to consult with a qualified plumber and consider all the available options.

Questions You May Have

Q: Is PEX pipe safe to use in California?
A: PEX pipe is not recommended for use in plumbing systems that supply drinking water in California due to concerns about potential chemical leaching.

Q: What are the alternatives to PEX pipe?
A: Copper, galvanized steel, CPVC, and PP are some alternative piping materials that can be used in California.

Q: What are the advantages of PEX pipe?
A: PEX pipe is flexible, durable, and easy to install.

Q: What are the disadvantages of PEX pipe?
A: PEX pipe may leach chemicals into drinking water and is not recommended for use in plumbing systems that supply drinking water in California.

Q: How can I tell if PEX pipe is safe to use?
A: Look for PEX pipe that is certified by a reputable testing organization, such as the NSF International.