Flexible pipe for baseboard connection
#1
02-01-17, 08:47 AM
Flexible pipe for baseboard connection
We're adding a basement bathroom and need one hot water baseboard. Piping through the slab is not an option but I can come in horizontally behind the baseboard through the stud wall (vertically down to an elbow through the wall). The problem is I don't know the final floor thickness since tiles haven't been chosen and who knows exactly how thick the mud will be either. With the vertical pipe down to a short stub, there won't be any real flex to fudge it.
So is there a code acceptable hot water safe "flex pipe" I can use for this?
Thanks guys!
So is there a code acceptable hot water safe "flex pipe" I can use for this?
Thanks guys!
#2
02-01-17, 12:20 PM
Super Moderator
Sure, it's what is used in most new installs now. It's a type of PEX but it also has a barrier to keep air out of it. It's not super flexible like a toilet supply line, but if you plan correctly and make sweeping curves, it should be fine. I believe you need a specific tool for the fittings. Sometimes can be rented or purchased and resold.
#3
02-01-17, 03:15 PM
Thanks Gunguy45.
I have copper up to the wall now. Is there an adapter to the pex? Does pex make a bend within 6 inches?
Is something like this allowed?
Eastman 3/4 in. FIP x 3/4 in. Female Sweat x 12 in. Corrugated Copper Water Heater Connector-0436912 - The Home Depot
I have copper up to the wall now. Is there an adapter to the pex? Does pex make a bend within 6 inches?
Is something like this allowed?
Eastman 3/4 in. FIP x 3/4 in. Female Sweat x 12 in. Corrugated Copper Water Heater Connector-0436912 - The Home Depot
#4
02-01-17, 03:20 PM
Group Moderator
I'm not sure about using a copper to pex adapter but what is usually done is the 90 is set just slightly higher than possibly needed. The baseboard enclosure does not have to sit on the floor.
#5
02-02-17, 07:25 AM
Thanks Pjmax. My wife won't go for the floating baseboard idea.
Anyone know if the copper flex I posted is legal?
Anyone know if the copper flex I posted is legal?
#6
02-02-17, 07:57 AM
I would get or buy a appropriate piece of rolled copper tubing maybe 4 feet long. Extra for error. Don't bend to many times in one place as it will get case hardened. Not to use for real tight bends as fittings are used for that. Good luck.
#7
02-03-17, 10:21 AM
I wouldn't use the corrugated copper tubing. Not sure if it's code or not, but regardless, I think it would look like a novice installation.
I'd try to pick out your tile now, then you can get it within 1/8" or so, which the copper fittings will have that much play. I think you're likely overthinking it, once you decide to go with porcelain/ceramic , they are all pretty much the same width, or at least close enough. You just need to be concerned if you will use a marble or natural stone tile, which will be thicker. Again, a 1/16" or 1/8" difference should be able to be made up in the final fittings and soldering.
I'd try to pick out your tile now, then you can get it within 1/8" or so, which the copper fittings will have that much play. I think you're likely overthinking it, once you decide to go with porcelain/ceramic , they are all pretty much the same width, or at least close enough. You just need to be concerned if you will use a marble or natural stone tile, which will be thicker. Again, a 1/16" or 1/8" difference should be able to be made up in the final fittings and soldering.
