Hello friends! 👋 Today, I’m going to talk to you about Apollo PEX-A vs SharkBite PEX-A. If you’ve ever heard of these two brands, you probably know they are both popular when it comes to plumbing. But, maybe you’re wondering, “Which one should I use? What’s the difference?” Well, don’t worry, I’ve got your back! I’ll explain it in simple words so you can easily understand it. Let’s dive right in! 🚀
What is PEX-A Anyway?
Before we start comparing Apollo PEX-A and SharkBite PEX-A, let me quickly explain what PEX-A is. PEX-A is a type of flexible pipe used in plumbing for water supply systems. It’s made from a special kind of plastic called polyethylene. The “A” part refers to how the pipe is made, and PEX-A is known for being super flexible and durable, which is a huge advantage when installing it in tight spaces!
Imagine trying to bend a stiff straw into a circle—it’s impossible, right? But if you had a flexible rubber straw, you could bend it easily. That’s what PEX-A is like compared to other types of pipes! It’s flexible, strong, and super easy to work with, especially for plumbing projects in your home.
Now that we know what PEX-A is, let’s see how Apollo and SharkBite compare when it comes to this flexible pipe!
Apollo PEX-A vs SharkBite PEX-A: What’s the Difference?
When it comes to PEX-A pipes, both Apollo and SharkBite are well-respected brands. But, of course, there are some key differences between the two that you should know. So, let’s compare them and see which one might be better for your needs!
1. Ease of Installation
Both Apollo and SharkBite PEX-A pipes are known for being easy to install, which is why they are so popular among homeowners and even professional plumbers. But there are some differences when it comes to how you install them.
- Apollo PEX-A: Apollo PEX-A pipes usually require special tools to connect the fittings, like a crimping tool or a clamp. This means you’ll need to have the right equipment on hand before you can start using them. The good news is, once you have the tools, the installation is straightforward and secure.
- SharkBite PEX-A: SharkBite PEX-A pipes, on the other hand, are famous for their push-to-connect system. You don’t need any special tools! You just push the pipe into the fitting, and that’s it! Super simple, right? This makes SharkBite a favorite choice for DIY projects because it saves time and effort.
In short, if you want a fast, tool-free installation, SharkBite is the way to go. But if you don’t mind using tools and want to save some money (because Apollo PEX-A fittings can be cheaper), then Apollo could be a better option.
2. Price Comparison
When it comes to price, it’s natural to want the best bang for your buck! Let’s compare the costs of these two brands.
- Apollo PEX-A: Apollo PEX-A pipes and fittings tend to be more affordable compared to SharkBite. However, you’ll have to buy the tools needed for installation if you don’t already have them. This could add to the cost, especially if it’s your first time working with PEX-A.
- SharkBite PEX-A: SharkBite PEX-A fittings are more expensive because of their special design that doesn’t require tools. But remember, since you don’t need any extra tools, you might end up saving money in the long run, especially if you’re only doing a small plumbing job.
So, if you’re doing a large project, Apollo might save you money. But if you’re doing a small project and want the quickest, easiest option, SharkBite is worth the extra price!
3. Durability and Flexibility
Both Apollo and SharkBite PEX-A pipes are highly durable and flexible. That’s why people love them so much! But let’s see how they stack up against each other:
- Apollo PEX-A: Apollo’s PEX-A pipes are known for being extremely strong and can withstand high water pressure. They’re also very flexible, which makes them perfect for complicated plumbing layouts where you need to make a lot of bends.
- SharkBite PEX-A: SharkBite PEX-A pipes are just as durable as Apollo. They can handle hot and cold water systems and are also great for tight spaces due to their flexibility. Plus, because the fittings are push-to-connect, they have a secure seal that lasts a long time!
So, in terms of durability and flexibility, both Apollo and SharkBite are top-notch. You really can’t go wrong with either brand here!
4. Availability
Now let’s talk about how easy it is to find these pipes and fittings.
- Apollo PEX-A: You can find Apollo PEX-A products at many hardware stores and online retailers. However, it might not be as widely available as SharkBite in some regions, so you’ll need to check where you can buy them.
- SharkBite PEX-A: SharkBite is everywhere! It’s a very popular brand, and you can find their products in most hardware stores and big home improvement chains. You can also order them easily online. So, if you need something right away, SharkBite is probably easier to find.
Apollo PEX-A vs SharkBite PEX-A: Which One Should You Choose?
Alright, now that we’ve compared Apollo PEX-A and SharkBite PEX-A in terms of installation, price, durability, and availability, it’s time to ask the big question: Which one is better for you? 🤔
- If you’re doing a small project and want the easiest, fastest installation with no need for special tools, SharkBite is the best choice. The push-to-connect system is super convenient, and while the fittings might be pricier, you’ll save time and effort.
- If you’re doing a bigger project and you don’t mind using tools, Apollo PEX-A might be a better option because it’s more affordable overall. You just need to make sure you have the crimping tools to get the job done!
In the end, both Apollo and SharkBite offer high-quality PEX-A pipes, and you can’t really go wrong with either one. It all comes down to your specific needs and budget.
Pros and Cons of Apollo PEX-A vs SharkBite PEX-A
To help you make the best decision, let’s break down the pros and cons of each:
Apollo PEX-A
Pros:
- More affordable fittings
- Very flexible and durable
- Great for larger projects
Cons:
- Requires special tools for installation
- Not as widely available as SharkBite in some areas
SharkBite PEX-A
Pros:
- No tools required for installation (push-to-connect)
- Very easy and quick to use
- Available almost everywhere
Cons:
- More expensive fittings
- May not be worth the extra cost for larger projects
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s answer some common questions people have about Apollo and SharkBite PEX-A.
1. Can I use SharkBite fittings on Apollo PEX-A pipes?
Yes! SharkBite fittings work on all PEX-A pipes, including Apollo. So, if you have Apollo PEX-A pipes but want to use SharkBite’s push-to-connect fittings, go for it! They are compatible.
2. Which one lasts longer: Apollo PEX-A or SharkBite PEX-A?
Both Apollo and SharkBite PEX-A pipes have similar lifespans. They can last 50 years or more, as long as they’re installed correctly. The key is to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for installation and maintenance.
3. Are PEX-A pipes better than copper pipes?
PEX-A pipes, whether from Apollo or SharkBite, have several advantages over copper pipes. They are more flexible, easier to install, and less likely to burst in cold weather. Copper pipes, however, are known for their long history of reliability. So, it really depends on your preference and the specific project you’re working on.
In the Apollo PEX-A vs SharkBite PEX-A debate, both brands have a lot to offer. If you want a simple, tool-free installation and are okay with spending a little extra, SharkBite is an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more affordable option and don’t mind using tools, Apollo PEX-A is a great alternative.
At the end of the day, both brands will give you strong, reliable, and flexible pipes that will last for years. So whichever you choose, you’ll be making a good decision for your plumbing project. Happy plumbing!
