Looking for comments on PEX tubing for water systems

[Cindy - s/v Mandisa]

We've been having a discussion on our owner's list about freshwater systems. The subject of PEX tubing came up. One of the owners has used it and loves it. My web searches seem to indicate that there are a lot of manufacturers and that there are different types of fittings available - a type that clamps on with a special tool and a type that self-attaches. We're going to need to replace our plumbing in the (reasonably) near future and I was hoping to get some more input. I'd especially love to hear from Peggie if she's around these days.

[Tom Young]

but this has been in home construction. Having completly installed the water lines in a few boats, I wouldn't choose PEX for a boat refit, it's just too stiff to work with. The boats I have worked in require too many tight turns that were easy to handle with the clear reinforced HC water line stocked in chandleries.

If installation isn't a problem(like during new boat construction), PEX is great. The tubing and press fittings are cheap and easy and don't leak but you have to buy the expensive press tool(for fittings), or borrow it. The more expensive compression type fittings are bulky and more expensive but require not special tools.

If you use the more flexible reinforced tubing, get quality brass barb fittings and quality correctly sized hose clamps and you should never have a problem.