Leaky pipes, sputtering faucets, and backed up drains—for most homeowners, plumbing problems mean it’s time to call the professionals. But when your trusted plumber arrives and starts examining your PVC and copper pipes, there’s a good chance you’ll notice a look of disdain once they spot a particular fitting—the SharkBite.
SharkBite fittings have become increasingly popular with DIYers and homeowners due to their push-to-connect design that allows connecting pipes without soldering, clamps, or threading. But talk to most plumbers, and you’ll get an earful about why they avoid using SharkBites as much as possible.
In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons why most plumbers dislike SharkBite fittings and often advise against their use. We’ll examine the durability concerns, installation challenges, cost factors, and other issues that cause many plumbers to view SharkBites as inferior to traditional soldered copper and threaded pipe connections.
Gaining an understanding of what causes plumbers to “hate” SharkBites can help homeowners make more informed decisions when repairs are needed. While SharkBite fittings have their defenders and appropriate applications, it’s important to hear the other side of the story from the professionals who work with plumbing systems every day.
Durability and Reliability Concerns
One of the top reasons plumbers dislike SharkBite fittings is the concern that they are less durable and reliable than traditional soldered copper and threaded pipe connections. In the plumbing world, there is a perception that SharkBite fittings represent a shortcut rather than quality craftsmanship.
Not as Strong and Prone to Leaks
- SharkBite fittings rely on an o-ring to seal the connection between pipes. Plumbers worry this plastic-on-plastic seal is not as robust and leak-proof as metal-to-metal soldered joints.
- The plastic material of SharkBite fittings is seen as weaker than copper pipes. There is concern they may crack or break over time.
- Even a small leak can cause big damage. Plumbers prefer time-tested methods less likely to fail.
Concerns in Certain Situations
- SharkBite fittings may not stand up well to high temperatures. Soldered copper has a longer track record in hot water applications.
- They also raise concerns for high pressure systems, vibration, and other stressful situations. The o-ring seal may not hold up.
- Soldered copper and threaded fittings are seen as more heavy duty for the most demanding applications.
Uncertainty About Long-Term Reliability
- SharkBite is a relatively new product without decades of proven reliability in the field.
- Plumbers have seen many “new and improved” products come and go. They are cautious to trust unproven methods.
- There are concerns about how SharkBite fittings will hold up as plumbing systems age. Will they start leaking over time?
While SharkBite fittings may serve temporary repairs well, most plumbers avoid using them for permanent installations due to durability concerns. They prefer time-tested methods that have shown decades of leak-free reliability.
Installation Challenges
While SharkBite fittings are marketed as a faster, easier way to make watertight pipe connections, many plumbers point out that they still require proper installation technique to avoid problems down the road.
Care and Skill Needed for Installation
- The pipe must be fully inserted into the SharkBite fitting for the o-ring to seal properly. This takes a deliberate, even push.
- Failure to insert the pipe completely can lead to leaks. Rushing the job can damage the o-ring.
- Plumbers recommend using the depth gauge tool to ensure proper installation.
Concerns About Improper Installation
- If homeowners or amateur DIYers install SharkBite fittings incorrectly, leaks or joint failures may occur.
- Leaks caused by improper installation reflect poorly on the fitting, not the installer. This frustrates plumbers.
- Even if installed correctly, failure is blamed on the SharkBite fitting, not the installer.
Extra Tools and Steps
- The special SharkBite depth gauge and deburring tool add steps compared to soldering or threading pipe.
- For plumbers accustomed to other methods, the extra tools and new techniques can be an annoyance.
- Taking shortcuts leads to improper installation and leaks.
While SharkBite fittings are designed for convenience, proper installation remains critical. Plumbers need to follow all instructions to ensure reliable performance and avoid damaging their professional reputation.
Conclusion
The debates around SharkBite fittings within the plumbing community illustrate how any new technology disrupting an industry often faces initial resistance. While SharkBite has its defenders and useful applications, it’s understandable why many plumbers approach this product cautiously.
The concerns around durability, proper installation, cost factors, and maintenance reflect a natural hesitation to move away from proven methods that have served the trade well for decades. However, it’s important not to paint all plumbers with the same brush. Younger generations may be more open to innovation, and there are situations where SharkBite fittings offer benefits.
More time and data is needed to fully assess the long-term reliability of SharkBite. If these fittings continue to see widespread use without developing a reputation for leaks and failures, opinions within the plumbing field may gradually shift. For now, consumers should weigh the pros and cons when deciding between SharkBite and traditional fittings for their home plumbing projects and repairs.
