Totally get what you’re saying about push-to-connect. I’ve seen a couple that worked fine for a while, then started weeping just enough to cause headaches. Crimp rings or expansion fittings take a little more time, but honestly, peace of mind is worth it—especially inside walls. You’re on the right track thinking long-term.
Crimp rings or expansion fittings take a little more time, but honestly, peace of mind is worth it—especially inside walls.
Couldn’t agree more about the “peace of mind” part. I’ve watched enough water sneak out of push-to-connects to know I’d rather spend an extra hour with the crimper than spend a weekend tearing out drywall. That said, I’ll admit those push-to-connects are tempting when you’re in a crawlspace and your knees are screaming for mercy.
One thing I learned the hard way—make sure you’ve got the right tool for expansion fittings. Borrowed my uncle’s expander once, and it was like wrestling an angry raccoon. If you’re doing a bunch of connections, it’s worth investing in a decent tool. And always double-check pipe depth... I’ve seen leaks just because someone didn’t push the fitting on all the way.
Long story short: slow and steady wins the race, especially if you don’t want to meet your plumber again in six months.
I totally get the temptation with push-to-connects, especially when you’re wedged under a sink or in some weird crawlspace. I’ve used them a couple times for “temporary” fixes that somehow turned into permanent solutions… but I always end up worrying about them later. Maybe it’s just paranoia, but I’ve seen one too many slow leaks turn into a mess.
Crimp rings have been my go-to for most stuff behind walls, but I’m still kind of on the fence about expansion fittings. They seem solid, but that expander tool is no joke—mine jammed up once and I spent more time fixing the tool than actually plumbing. Has anyone else had issues with the tool itself? Or maybe I just got a dud.
Also, does anyone bother with those little depth gauges? I always think I can eyeball it, then second-guess myself after everything’s closed up. Maybe overthinking it, but water has a way of finding every mistake you make...
Yeah, those push-to-connects are a lifesaver in tight spots, but I never quite trust them long-term either. Had one start weeping behind a vanity once—total pain. I’m with you on crimp rings for stuff you’re closing up. As for the expander tool, mine’s jammed a couple times too, especially when it’s cold out. Not sure if it’s the tool or user error, honestly.
I do use the depth gauge, but only when I remember where I left it... Most of the time, I just eyeball and hope for the best. Ever tried pressing fittings instead? Curious if anyone thinks they’re worth the extra cost.
Press fittings are kind of like the unicorn of plumbing—everyone talks about them, but I don’t see them out in the wild much, at least not for small DIY jobs. I tried a set once when working on a buddy’s basement bathroom. The tool was a rental, and it felt like operating a hydraulic car jack on steroids. Super satisfying “clunk,” but man, those fittings are pricey.
Honestly, for stuff behind walls, I still lean toward crimp rings or even good old sweat joints if it’s copper. Just feels more bulletproof. Press is fast and clean, though—no torches or worrying about setting off smoke alarms (ask me about that time with the kitchen reno...).
I’ve also had my expander tool freeze up in the winter—thought it was just me being impatient. Maybe they just don’t like cold garages? As for depth gauges, mine’s probably hanging out with all my lost 10mm sockets somewhere.
If you’re doing a lot of work and want speed, press might be worth it. For occasional fixes, I’m not sure the cost adds up unless you hate crimping that much.
