You will require all the right tools if you want to install PEX pipes in your home. One of the essential tools is the PEX crimp tool. This tool ensures the accurate installation of PEX. PEX crimp tools come in different shapes and sizes to fit the different types of wiring and pipes. They are used by many professional plumbers. The tool is specifically used for securing the crimp ring on to the pipe to ensure a watertight seal.
Table of Contents
- Our Favorites:
- Why do you need a PEX crimp tool?
- PEX crimp tool buying guide
- Top 8 best PEX crimp tools
- Frequently Asked Questions About Pex Crimp Tools
- What’s the best PEX crimp tool?
- How long does PEX last for?
- Is PEX better than PVC?
- What is the primary advantage of PEX pipe?
- What temperature does PEX melt?
- Related posts:
Our Favorites:
- Best Overall : Milwaukee Short Throw Press Kit PEX Crimp Jaws
- Best Budget Buy : IWISS PEX Pipe Crimping Tool Kits with PEX Pipe Cutters Suits
- Best Tool Set : Zurn Crimp Tool for Creating Watertight PEX Connections
- Best for Home Use : Zern Medium PEX Crimping Tool
Why do you need a PEX crimp tool?
By getting yourself a crimp tool, you will no longer require the help of a professional plumber every time you have a leak. You will also save a lot of money by fixing your leaks. Below are some of the best crimp tools that you can buy to fix your pipes. But first, let’s talk about some of the things that you should keep in mind when purchasing a PEX crimp tool.
All PEX crimping tools have the same function. However, you will find some differences depending upon the brand. Some of these tools can be easier to use and may help you finish your job much faster. With several crimp tools available in the market from different manufacturers, it can be hard to pick the best one. You should know what to look for and also the things which the best tool should have.
PEX crimp tool buying guide
Keep the following things in mind, and you might just find the perfect tool for yourself.
- Soft and Ergonomic Design
One of the most important things to look for in a PEX crimp tool is a soft and comfortable grip. Crimp tools require a lot of force, and you might end up with blisters in your hand if you use it for a long period. A soft and comfortable handle may prevent this from happening.
- Durability
Always look for a durable tool because it is not favorable to keep spending money on a new tool every time. A low-quality tool will always keep requiring repairs or replacement. Analyze the material to see if the tool is constructed from the best steel.
- Adjustability
The best crimp tool should be adjustable to all types of crimp rings to avoid having multiple tools for each size. Some tools are only compatible with their products, so it’s better to avoid those tools.
- Weight
The weight is one of the most important factors which you should look into. A heavy crimp tool will tire out your hands after using it for a long period. So choose a light crimp tool so that it will be easier to handle and also carry around.
- Length
Crimp tools come in various sizes. A short and small crimp tool will help you to do the work in tight places while and long crimp tool will help you reach places that are in hard-to-reach places. Consider this option and choose the one which is more suitable for you.
- Price
Price is another thing to consider while buying a crimp tool. Crimp tools come in different price tags. However, if you want the best tool which has better durability and comfort, you will need to shell out some cash.
- Purpose
There are several crimp tools, each with a different purpose. You must know your needs before heading to the store. This way, you won’t end up buying the wrong kind of crimp tool.
- Calibration
A good crimp tool will have the ability to be calibrated. It is no secret that crimp tools become stretched out after a prolonged period of use. This is why you must get a tool that can be calibrated so you can effectively continue with your work.
Top 8 best PEX crimp tools
- Milwaukee Short Throw Press Kit PEX Crimp Tools
- Zern Medium PEX Crimping Tool
- IWISS PEX Pipe Crimping Tool Kits with PEX Pipe Cutters Suits
- IWISS PEX Pipe Crimping Tool Kit with Cutter Suits
- IWISS Combo Angle Head PEX Pipe Crimping Tool Kits
- Zurn Crimp Tool for Creating Watertight PEX Connections
- Pipe Crimping Tool – Copper Pipe Press and Pex Crimp Tool
- EFIELD PEX Crimping Tool Kit
Keeping all these things in mind, let’s look at some of the best PEX crimp tools which you can buy:
1. Milwaukee Short Throw Press Kit PEX Crimp Jaws
The Milwaukee 2674-22C or also known by M18 is one of the best PEX crimp tools which you should consider if you are looking for a fast and easy tool. This product is the fastest tool that you will find in the market. It presses up to 40% faster than most of the other tools, which are considered fast. Unlike most of the other crimping tools, this one is battery powered. Which means you won’t have to use as much energy as you would with a manual tool. It is powered by a lithium battery.
The M18 works by using its jaws to grip the rings. This provides extremely precise alignment. The Auto-Cycle feature of this product also provides a full press every single time so you can be assured of a watertight connection in your pipeline.
This product makes PEX installation extremely simple and effortless. It is one of the best PEX crimp tools which you can buy for yourself. You can use this product with just one hand, as it is specifically designed for one-handed use. It has the edge over those hand tools.
Features
- One-Handed design
- This product has a jaw grip that is spring-loaded and provides precise alignment
- Auto Cycle provides the best press each time
- This product press 40% faster compared to other products
- It is battery powered.
Pros:
- Extremely fast operation
- Easy to use
- Comes with different size of the head for different crimp rings
- Precise alignment
Cons:
- A little expensive
2. Zern Medium PEX Crimping Tool
Zern QCRT4CM is a small compact tool that can be great for carrying around. It is an extremely portable tool. This medium tool is great for crimping pipes, which are the size of 3/4inch. This is a factory-calibrated tool, which means that you don’t have to calibrate it again before you use it.
A Go no go gauge comes along with this tool, which is extremely helpful to measure the size of a crimp ring. This will let you know if your tool will fit on to the crimp ring. One great thing about this tool is that it allows you to recalibrate it. This is important because crimping tools become loose after using it for a long time.
If you require a crimping tool for small tight spaces, this Zern QCRT4CM will be great for you. It’s small, and lightweight body makes it very easy to use in small spaces.
Features:
- Small compact body
- Suitable for 3/4 inch pipes and crimp rings
- Go no go gauge for easy measurement
Pros:
- Perfect for small spaces
- Comes with a go no go gauge
- Great build
Cons:
- A little expensive considering what it offers
3. IWISS PEX Pipe Crimping Tool Kits with PEX Pipe Cutters Suits
The IWISS Combo Angle head tool kit is one which is a must-have if you’re looking to buy a PEX crimp tool. It is a factory-calibrated tool and is one of the best crimp tools for tight spaces. The tool kit comes with three devices – a ½ and ¾ clamps along with a PEX cutter.
Sometimes, having two tools is better than having to replace the jaws every time you need a different head. It is much easier to switch that way. The added cutter that comes along with this package is also a very useful tool that you will need while repairing your pipes. If you get this tool kit, you won’t have to buy a separate cutter.
The gauges of this tool come well-calibrated, meaning that you can get on with your work right away. You won’t need to calibrate before using it like most of the other tools. One of the best things about this tool is the polished crimp jaw. This jaw protects the PEX pipe and crimp rings from getting damaged. The product also has a very rugged handle that provides amazing grip while you are working
Features:
- These tools come factory calibrated
- Angled head for ease of use in small spaces
- Polished crimp jaw for better pipe and ring protection
Pros:
- Well calibrated tools
- Solid handles
- Suitable for tight spaces
- Lightweight
Cons:
- Not very suitable for people with small hands
4. IWISS PEX Pipe Crimping Tool Kit with Cutter Suits
The IWISS PEX pipe F1807 is one of the best PEX crimp tools you will find. This tool has everything that you will want. It has one of the best builds with sturdy construction. This version of F1807, which is the IWS-FAS, can be used on almost every size of crimp rings. It is suitable for 1/2, 3/4, 3/8 and 1-inch rings.
The tool’s lightweight and short length makes it easy to use the tool in small spaces. The comfortable handle makes crimping easy. Your hands will not feel tired even after long use. The crimps head is also easy to use and easy to replace.
This tool comes packed with a ton of features, including a built-in cutter and stripper. It also comes with a gauge. Hence this tool will give you everything you’ll ever need while working on PEX pipe. The polished jaw also ensures that your copper rings and pipes are protected. This tool is just an amazing product which you must own.
Features:
- Suitable for all size of rings up to 1 inch
- Ergonomic handle
- Made short and lightweight for small space
- In-built stripper and cutter
Pros:
- Perfect for small space
- Excellent build quality
- Can crimp up to 1 inch
- Sturdy case
Cons:
- Can be heavy for some people
5. IWISS Combo Angle Head PEX Pipe Crimping Tool Kits
The F1807 is a great ring crimping tool by IWISS. This is one of the best PEX crimp tools if you are in the market for one. This tool can be used on both steel and copper. It has a very versatile clamp which can be used on all sizes of crimp band ranging from 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch as long as they are made from steel and copper.
This tool comes with several useful features besides its versatility. The Go No Go Gauge is one of those features that come with this product, which is extremely useful. By using this feature, you can find out if the tool is the right size for the crimp ring. You can save a lot of time by using this instead of guessing the size.
This tool has a very smart design, which makes it one of the best crimp tools for tight spaces. The design allows you to get into small and tight areas to fix your PEX pipes. This tool comes in a case along with all the other accessories making it very portable. You should consider this tool if you are planning to buy one.
Features:
- Dual-purpose crimper for both copper and steel
- Suitable for 1/2 to 3/4 inch crimp
- Go no go gauge
- Smart design for working in tight spaces
Pros:
- Extremely portable
- Go no go gauge helps in saving a lot of time
- Suitable for both steel and copper
Cons:
- Not suitable for 3/8 and 1-inch crimp rings and pipes
6. Zurn Crimp Tool for Creating Watertight PEX Connections
Zurn is one of the most well known PEX brands in the world. They have some of the best products and tools which you will find. One of those products is QCRTMH. It is one of the most durable tools with a very strong and sturdy build. It comes with several features which include a tool for removing a crimp ring and a no go gauge. This set comes with five tools overall.
The QCRTMH works with both copper and steel crimp rings meaning that you won’t have to change your tools for crimp bands of a different material. The head of this tool comes with an interchangeable jaw, which is very easy to set up. All you need to do is pull the hook, and you can set up the jaw of your choice. It is a very simple and quick process.
This tool can fit the most sizes of crimp rings compared to other tools in the market. It can fit rings ranging from 1/8 inch up to 3/4 inch. Besides the ability to fit so many sizes of rings, it also comes with a tool to remove the crimp ring. It makes PEX repairs extremely easy and fast.
The go no go gauge is also a handy tool that allows you to measure the size of the crimp. For its price, this product comes with a lot of features and benefits. You should consider this one in your options if you are planning to get a crimp tool for PEX.
Features:
- Suitable for both steel and copper
- Fits crimp sizes ranging from 1/8 inch up to 3/4 inch.
- Comes with a crimp ring removing tool
- Go no go gauge
Pros:
- Great for both steel and copper
- Comes with several accessories which are extremely useful
- Includes a removal tool
- Amazing durability
Cons:
- A little expensive
7. Pipe Crimping Tool – Copper Pipe Press and Pex Crimp Tool
This iGeeLee is one of the best PEX crimp tools that you can buy for ensuring a pipe connection with no leakage. It would be hard to find another crimp tool at this price range of just under $100. It is one of the most durable tools you can find in the market.
This CW 1632 is a manual pressing tool that is suitable for 1/2, 3/4, and even 1-inch crimp ring. The fact that it can be used for 1-inch crimp also gives it a massive advantage over other crimping tools. The tool has an extremely tough grade of material for its construction. The materials are the ones that are found in expensive battery-powered tools.
This tool is has a very lightweight, which allows for easy portability. And the best thing about this tool is that it is shock resistant and also water-resistant. This means that this tool can survive drops from a high elevation and also endure all types of weather conditions.
The CW 1632 has a powerful jaw that can be easily replaced with another jaw. This allows you to finish your work faster and more efficiently across different sizes of crimp heads. It also has an extended handle, which makes it easy for you to gain enough leverage to crimp ring sizes of up to 1 inch. The crimping joint allows you to use the long handle in narrow spaces since it can be rotated in 360 degrees. All these features make this one of the best among the different types of tools available
Features:
- Slip-proof handles enforced with high-quality rubber
- Smart handle construction for minimum effort
- 360-degree head rotation
- Made for all types of crimp ring size
- Two-year warranty
Pros:
- Easily replaceable head
- Ergonomic head design
- Extremely durable
- Cheap
- Suitable for up to 1-inch crimp ring
Cons:
- The bulky size makes it hard to work in small places
8. EFIELD PEX Crimping Tool Kit
The last item on this list is the EFEILD PEX Crimping tool kit. This is also one of the best PEX crimp tools which you will find in the market. It is made from reliable and robust steel, which gives it an extremely durable body. It is a small tool that is extremely portable. You can easily carry it around in the case which comes with the tool.
This tool is excellent for 3/8inch, 1/2inch, 5/8inch, and 3/4inch crimp rings since it comes with changeable jaws for those sizes. You will no longer require a different tool when working with varying sizes of crimp rings. In the kit, you will also find a tool for removing crimp rings. This tool is handy, especially for fixing leaks or correcting a mistake.
Another essential tool that you will find with this tool kits is the go no go gauge. All these accessories, along with the comfortable grip handle, make this one of the best PEX crimping tools.
Features:
- Reliable construction
- Comes with four interchangeable heads for 3/8, 1/2, 5/8, and 3/4 inch crimp rings
- A comfortable long handle which minimizes fatigue
- Go no go gauge
- Includes crimp removal tool
Pros:
- Extremely reliable
- Comfortable grips suitable for an extended period of use
- Clamps for different size of crimp rings
Cons:
- Cannot be used for 1-inch crimp ring
Conclusion:
Thus these are some of the best and most reliable crimp tools which you will find online or in your local store. Most of these products which were reviewed come with more than just the crimp tools. Some of them have extra features and better comfort, while some have better adjustability. Know what you are looking for and consider these options carefully. You can choose the one which is best for you and suits your needs the best. Hopefully, they will make your PEX installation and fixing much easier.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pex Crimp Tools
What’s the best PEX crimp tool?
There are tons of great PEX crimp tools out in the market; therefore, it is not each to say one is the best. However you to find the best tool, you must look into its features like durability, cost-effectiveness, adjustability, warranty, etc.
How long does PEX last for?
The life span of a PEX pipe may vary upon the environment and how often it is used. However, a PEX pipe may last for well over 50 years. It is much more durable than a copper pipe.
Is PEX better than PVC?
Yes, PEX is better than PVC for some reasons. First, PEX pipes are suitable for hot water, while PVC is not. Also, PEX is much more flexible than PVC, thus requiring fewer connections at bends.
What is the primary advantage of PEX pipe?
A PEX pipe has several advantages over a traditional piping system. It is very flexible and lightweight making it easy to install. It can be bent around an obstacle without requiring holes and notches. It can also be used for both hot and cold water.
What temperature does PEX melt?
A PEX pipe can withstand up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit of heat.
