Standard SharkBite push-to-connect fittings work on copper, PEX and CPVC, and on PE-RT and SDR-9 HDPE, in any combination. They don’t work on PVC (SharkBite makes separate PVC fittings for that) or on galvanized steel.
What pipe is it?
Push-fit on this pipe
Yes, on copper
SharkBite fittings take copper pipe (ASTM B88). Cut it square, deburr the end, mark the insertion depth and push it to the stop.
On the package: Push-to-connect, in your pipe’s size
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Push-fit on this pipe
Yes, on PEX
Sized the same as copper, so a 1/2" fitting takes 1/2" PEX. Up to 1" the stiffener PEX needs is built in or not needed. From 1-1/4" to 2", it needs one sold separately.
On the package: Push-to-connect, in your PEX’s size
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Push-fit on this pipe
Yes, on CPVC
Copper-tube-size CPVC (ASTM D2846) fits the standard fittings. Deburr the cut end first.
On the package: Push-to-connect, in your CPVC’s size
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Push-fit on this pipe
Not the standard fitting
SharkBite’s standard (tan collar) fittings don’t take PVC. Its separate PVC fittings (white collar) take Schedule 40, 80 and 120 PVC with no primer or glue, and include a coupling from copper-size pipe to PVC.
On the package: SharkBite PVC fitting, white collar
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Push-fit on this pipe
No
Push-fit fittings aren’t approved for galvanized pipe, threaded or push-to-connect.
Start overPush-fit on this pipe
Only with a transition fitting
Polybutylene isn’t on the approved pipe list. It needs a polybutylene transition fitting first.
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Push-fit on this pipe
Yes, on PE-RT and SDR-9 HDPE
Both are on SharkBite’s approved list. HDPE needs a tube stiffener from the HDPE pipe’s maker.
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Sizes
SharkBite sizes are copper tube size, so a 1/2" fitting takes 1/2" copper or 1/2" PEX. The fitting’s size is the pipe’s nominal size, and the pipe is 1/8" wider than that across the outside.
| Fitting | Pipe across (OD) |
|---|---|
| 1/4" | 3/8" |
| 3/8" | 1/2" |
| 1/2" | 5/8" |
| 5/8" | 3/4" |
| 3/4" | 7/8" |
| 1" | 1-1/8" |
| 1-1/4" | 1-3/8" |
| 1-1/2" | 1-5/8" |
| 2" | 2-1/8" |
Mark the insertion depth from the instructions for the fitting you bought, because it differs between SharkBite’s product lines. On a 1/2" fitting it’s 1" for SharkBite Max and 0.95" for the older Universal fitting.
Does PEX need a stiffener?
- SharkBite Max, 1/2" to 1": no stiffener needed.
- Older SharkBite Universal, 3/8" to 1": the stiffener is built into the fitting. Copper and CPVC slide over it, so the same fitting works for them.
- 1/4": no stiffener.
- 1-1/4" to 2": PEX and PE-RT need a stiffener, sold separately. It’s copper, and it must not go in copper or CPVC pipe.
- HDPE: use the tube stiffener sold by the HDPE pipe’s maker.
Installing one
- Cut the pipe square with a tubing cutter (copper) or pipe shears (plastic). Deburr copper and CPVC so there are no sharp edges.
- Mark the insertion depth on the pipe with a permanent marker.
- Push the pipe in with a slight twist until it stops at the tube stop. The depth mark should end up at the edge of the release collar.
- To take it apart, use SharkBite’s disconnect clip or tongs. The fittings are meant to be permanent: one put in wrong can come off, but cut a new pipe end if the old one is marked.
Where not to use them
- Galvanized pipe: not approved.
- Gas or compressed air: not approved for either.
- As an electrical ground: the fittings don’t carry current. On copper, add a copper jumper cable across the fitting to keep the pipe grounded.
- Inside a concrete slab: no joints in the slab; run one continuous length of PEX.
- Buried: allowed, but wrap brass fittings in silicone tape (at least 0.020" thick) and follow local code.
- Near soldering: solder nearby joints first, then fit the SharkBite.
- In sunlight: keep them out of direct sun.
Not sure which pipe or size you have?
Tell pipe sizes apart