Piping is a huge part of your outdoor boiler building decision! You have two primary options for underground lines: PEX (short for cross-linked polyethylene) and copper. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, and the ideal choice will depend on factors such as price, lifespan, installation ease and performance in the long run. This guide will compare underground PEX pipe and copper, making it easier to determine which works best for your equipment. Additionally, we'll explain the differences between underground PEX pipe vs. copper, so you can determine the option that's right for your system setup. We'll even touch on things like heat loss, maintenance, and even how to use a boiler installation cost calculator to figure out your budget.
Cost Comparison: Boiler Installation Cost Calculation
Let's talk cost – it's usually the first thing people think about when comparing PEX and copper pipes. PEX is much cheaper, ranging from $0.50 to $2 a foot. Because it is flexible, it is also faster and easier to install, saving on labor costs. Overall, you could save 20% to 40% over copper by using PEX. Copper, though, is a lot more expensive, at between $2 and $8 per foot. It’s also rigid, so you have a lot more fittings and specialized labor (and soldering!), which increases the cost of installation. While copper's durability might make up for this over many years, that initial expense can be a real problem for many people. So, if you're on a budget or want to see a quicker return on your investment, PEX wins hands down when it comes to cost. Learn more about efficiency tips for PEX Pipe installation, HERE.
Installation: Flexibility vs. Rigidity
Installation is another thing. PEX is super flexible, so it bends easily around obstacles and fits into tight spaces underground – no need for lots of extra fittings. Plus, the simple connections make repairs and changes a breeze. Copper? Not so much. It's rigid, meaning you need precise cuts and soldering, which takes more time and skill. It's definitely less of a DIY project.
PEX Installation Benefits
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Easily bends around underground obstacles
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Requires minimal fittings due to flexibility
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Can be installed with simple push-connect or crimp fittings
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Excellent DIY-friendly option for outdoor heating systems
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Adjusts to minor ground movement without damage
Copper Installation Challenges
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Requires precise measurements and cutting
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Needs numerous fittings for directional changes
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Demands professional soldering skills
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More time-consuming installation process
So, for underground pipes in an outdoor boiler system, PEX wins because it's so much easier to install. Remember to factor installation costs into your budget when using a boiler installation cost calculator.
Durability and Longevity
Now let's talk about how long these pipes last. Both PEX and copper are durable, but in different ways. PEX resists corrosion, scale buildup, and those tiny pinhole leaks that can shorten copper's life. It's also pretty good at handling freezing temperatures – it can expand a bit without bursting. That said, you must shield PEX from sun rays and rodents. Copper pipes usually outlast PEX (50-70 years compared with 30-50 for PEX) and are more resistant to damage from soil shift or heavy loads. But they can rust in acidic soil or mineral-rich areas. So, for long-term durability in soil that isn't corrosive, copper might be slightly better. But PEX's freeze resistance and corrosion protection make it a great choice underground, as long as you insulate it properly.
Performance and Efficiency
Let's talk about how well these pipes perform. Heat loss and pressure are important for efficiency. That said, you must shield PEX from sun rays and rodents. Copper pipes usually outlast PEX (50-70 years compared with 30-50 for PEX) and are more resistant to damage from soil shift or heavy loads. But they can rust in acidic soil or mineral-rich areas. With good insulation, PEX keeps the water consistently hot over long distances. Copper, on the other hand, loses more heat unless you really insulate it well, sacrificing efficiency. While copper has antimicrobial properties that can be good for drinking water lines, for outdoor boilers where keeping the heat is key, insulated PEX is the more energy-efficient choice.
Maintenance: Ease of Repairs
Being able to quickly fix or change your pipes is really important – you don't want your system down for long!
PEX Maintenance Advantages
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Simple repair procedures with minimal tools
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Push-connect or crimp fittings make repairs straightforward
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Flexibility allows for repairs with less excavation
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Less downtime during system maintenance
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Lower repair costs over system lifetime
Copper Maintenance Considerations
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Repairs require soldering equipment and skills
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More extensive excavation needed for underground repairs
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Higher labor costs for maintenance
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Longer system downtime during repairs
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Professional assistance typically required
When it comes to fixing things, PEX is much more practical for underground boiler pipes. Because it's so easy to repair, you'll save time and money. Those quick fixes mean less downtime and fewer headaches. Think about it – a simple repair with PEX might only take an hour or two, whereas a copper repair could take much longer and require a skilled plumber.
Conclusion
So, which pipe is best – PEX or copper?It depends on your priority, really. If you are dollar-conscious, seeking quick installation, and energy-efficient, PEX Pipe is the ideal choice. Copper may be a better option for long-lasting use in noncorrosive soil (or even above ground, where it can be protected from the sun). However insulated PEX is an excellent choice for near all outdoor boiler systems. It’s cheap, flexible, works for freezing temperatures and maximizes heat loss. As long as you install it correctly — bury it below the frost line and use decent insulation — PEX will provide years of dependable service and keep your home nice and toasty. And remember to factor the costs with a boiler installation cost calculator!
Ready to upgrade your outdoor boiler system with reliable, efficient PEX piping? Head over to OutdoorBoiler.com to explore our selection and find exactly what you need.
FAQs
Is PEX better than copper piping?
PEX frequently gets off better than copper if below the ground for factors like having reduced costs, even more flexibility in pipe, and not fading or scaling. Copper has a longer life span (50–70 years compared with 40–50 years for PEX), but it is also pricier, more difficult to install and susceptible to corrosion in acidic or mineral-rich environments.
Is PEX pipe suitable for underground?
Yes, PEX is approved for use underground. It can be flexible; it resists freezing, it resists corrosion. But it needs to be buried at the right depth (2 to 4 feet generally) and insulated properly to shield it from extreme temperatures and physical damage.
What are the disadvantages of PEX pipe?
It has a few disadvantages—it's UV light sensitive, which means it shouldn't be used outside in direct sunlight; it's also not rodent proof; and it can be incompatible with either very hard or very soft water. It also cannot be connected directly to water heaters, a transition fitting is required, and it is non-recyclable.
How long will PEX last underground?
PEX pipes typically last 40–50 years underground under optimal conditions. Factors like proper installation, insulation, water quality, and environmental conditions can influence their longevity.
