Connect to Main Water Lines — Connect Pipes to Box Valves
Part of project
How to Install a Washing Machine Outlet Box · Step 7 of 8
In this video
The final plumbing step is to connect the new PEX lines to the main hot and cold water supply. First, locate the main water shutoff for the house and turn it off. Drain the remaining water from the pipes by opening a faucet. Cut the existing copper pipes in the ceiling using a pipe cutter. Connect the new red and blue PEX lines to the corresponding copper lines using push-to-connect fittings or other appropriate adapters. In the video, push-to-connect fittings are used to join PEX to the copper, and then the final connections are made with PEX crimps.
Goal: Tie the new plumbing into the main water supply
- Ensure the water is completely shut off and lines are drained before cutting to avoid flooding.
Used in this video
- Pipe Cutter (brand: Milwaukee, Tool Type: Plumbing Tools, Power Source: Manual) — Cutting the existing copper supply lines.
- PEX Crimping Tool (brand: unknown, Tool Type: Plumbing Tools, Power Source: Manual) — Making the final PEX connections.
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FAQs
Is the estimated 8-hour completion time realistic for an intermediate DIYer, or should I budget more time if I'm less experienced?
The 8-hour estimate is for an intermediate DIYer with some plumbing and carpentry experience. If you're a beginner, budget 1.5 to 2 times that, as learning new skills like pipe cutting, solvent welding, and working in tight spaces will add significant time. Always prioritize careful work over speed to avoid costly mistakes.
What are the most critical safety precautions I should take, especially when cutting into existing walls and dealing with water lines?
Before cutting into any wall, always use a stud finder with AC detection to locate studs, pipes, and electrical wires to avoid accidental damage. Turn off the main water supply before making any connections to existing lines. Have buckets and towels ready, and be prepared to shut off water immediately if a leak occurs during testing.
The project lists PEX crimp tools; can I use PEX expansion tools or SharkBite fittings instead, and what are the pros and cons?
Yes, PEX expansion tools like Uponor/ProPEX or SharkBite push-to-connect fittings are viable alternatives. Expansion tools require specific PEX-A tubing and offer a strong, reliable connection. SharkBite fittings are quicker and require no special tools beyond a cutter, but they are significantly more expensive per fitting and less permanent in nature.
What's the best way to ensure all my plumbing connections are leak-free, especially for the drain and supply lines?
For PVC drain lines, ensure you apply primer and cement generously and twist the pipe firmly into the fitting for a secure bond. For PEX supply lines, double-check that crimp rings are properly compressed or SharkBite fittings are fully seated. After all connections, slowly turn on the main water supply and thoroughly inspect every joint for drips or seeping water before closing the wall.
Connect to Main Water Lines — Connect Pipes to Box Valves
Part of project
How to Install a Washing Machine Outlet Box · Step 7 of 8
In this video
The final plumbing step is to connect the new PEX lines to the main hot and cold water supply. First, locate the main water shutoff for the house and turn it off. Drain the remaining water from the pipes by opening a faucet. Cut the existing copper pipes in the ceiling using a pipe cutter. Connect the new red and blue PEX lines to the corresponding copper lines using push-to-connect fittings or other appropriate adapters. In the video, push-to-connect fittings are used to join PEX to the copper, and then the final connections are made with PEX crimps.
Goal: Tie the new plumbing into the main water supply
- Ensure the water is completely shut off and lines are drained before cutting to avoid flooding.
Used in this video
- Pipe Cutter (brand: Milwaukee, Tool Type: Plumbing Tools, Power Source: Manual) — Cutting the existing copper supply lines.
- PEX Crimping Tool (brand: unknown, Tool Type: Plumbing Tools, Power Source: Manual) — Making the final PEX connections.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the estimated 8-hour completion time realistic for an intermediate DIYer, or should I budget more time if I'm less experienced?
The 8-hour estimate is for an intermediate DIYer with some plumbing and carpentry experience. If you're a beginner, budget 1.5 to 2 times that, as learning new skills like pipe cutting, solvent welding, and working in tight spaces will add significant time. Always prioritize careful work over speed to avoid costly mistakes.
What are the most critical safety precautions I should take, especially when cutting into existing walls and dealing with water lines?
Before cutting into any wall, always use a stud finder with AC detection to locate studs, pipes, and electrical wires to avoid accidental damage. Turn off the main water supply before making any connections to existing lines. Have buckets and towels ready, and be prepared to shut off water immediately if a leak occurs during testing.
The project lists PEX crimp tools; can I use PEX expansion tools or SharkBite fittings instead, and what are the pros and cons?
Yes, PEX expansion tools like Uponor/ProPEX or SharkBite push-to-connect fittings are viable alternatives. Expansion tools require specific PEX-A tubing and offer a strong, reliable connection. SharkBite fittings are quicker and require no special tools beyond a cutter, but they are significantly more expensive per fitting and less permanent in nature.
What's the best way to ensure all my plumbing connections are leak-free, especially for the drain and supply lines?
For PVC drain lines, ensure you apply primer and cement generously and twist the pipe firmly into the fitting for a secure bond. For PEX supply lines, double-check that crimp rings are properly compressed or SharkBite fittings are fully seated. After all connections, slowly turn on the main water supply and thoroughly inspect every joint for drips or seeping water before closing the wall.