If you’ve ever had to install or repair pipes, you’ve probably heard of a crimp tool. Whether you are using copper or PEX pipes, you’ll need to use the proper tool, especially when making connections. A crimping tool is definitely one of the most important ones to fix pipe fittings and fixtures in place. Whether you are a homeowner or a DIY lover, learning how to use a plumbing crimping tool properly can save you time, money and a lot of stress.
A crimping tool is a handy device that allows you to create secure connections between pipes and fittings. In this article, we’ll help you get familiar with crimping tools by introducing you to how they work and why plumbers prefer them. When you are ready to try out the tool, check out PlumbingSell to get the proper one and all other types of essential plumbing supplies.
Table of Contents
What Is a Plumbing Crimping Tool?
Pipe fittings and fixtures are essential parts of any plumbing project that requires a smooth water flow. Crimping is among the most reliable and commonly used methods for pipe connections. A plumbing crimping tool, often referred to as a plumber’s crimp tool or a plumber crimping tool, is a specialised tool used to make secure and leak-free connections between pipes and fittings. These tools are commonly used in both residential and commercial plumbing projects and are essential for installing PEX tubing or copper piping without soldering or threading.
To use a crimp tool on pipes, crimp rings are a must-have for connection. A crimper has unique jaws that deform the crimp ring to create a tight seal without allowing leakages. It’s important to notice that pipe crimping tools come in different types and sizes for various applications. For instance, PEX crimping tools are normally manual, handheld crimpers, while hydraulic pipe crimpers are more suitable for heavy-duty tasks.
Advantages of using a crimping tool
When it comes to connecting pipes securely and efficiently, a plumbing crimping tool is one of the most reliable options. Whether you’re using a manual plumber crimp tool or a professional-grade copper press tool, these tools come with similar practical benefits.
Ease of Use
A crimping tool is quite easy to use, even if you are not a plumber. They are designed to be a user-friendly tool, and with just a few practices, most homeowners can use a plumber’s crimper tool to tackle small projects on their own.
Reliability
Crimpers are capable of creating tight, leak-free, reliable and durable connections between pipes. By compressing the metal crimp rings tightly around the pipe and fitting, a secure mechanical seal is formed. Crimping is considered one of the most reliable methods of connection between PEX pipes.
Efficiency
One of the biggest advantages of using a crimp tool is that you can complete a plumbing job quickly. Unlike soldering, which requires complex preparation, heating and more, a crimp tool for copper pipes lets you make solid connections in seconds. Just position the crimp ring and fitting, squeeze the crimp tool, and you are done.
How a Pipe Crimping Tool Works?
Using a pipe crimping tool may sound technical, but with the right steps and a bit of practice, you’ll be able to use it faster than you expected.
Step 1: Cut the pipe
Use a pipe cutter to make a clean, straight cut on your copper PEX pipe. A smooth, burr-free edge is essential for a tight seal. Avoid using a hacksaw, as it may leave jagged edges.
Step 2: Slide on the Crimp Ring
Take a copper or PEX crimp ring and slide it over the end of the pipe. Position it about 1/8 inch to 1/4 inch from the end of the pipe. The ring is what the crimping tool will compress to create a watertight seal.
Step 3: Insert the Fitting
Insert the fitting into the pipe until it stops. The fitting should sit firmly inside the pipe, with the crimp ring positioned over the joint.
Step 4: Position the Crimping Tool
Place your crimping tool over the crimp ring. Open the jaws of your crimping tool and position it perpendicular to the pipe. Ensure the jaws you choose are the correct size and match the gauge of your crimp rings. You can get the EFIELD PEX crimper bundle, which comes in a collection of common sizes of jaws you may need.
Step 5: Make the Crimp
Squeeze the handles of the crimping tools to compress the crimp rings around fittings and tubing evenly. You’ll feel the resistance drop when the crimp is completed.
As you can tell, working with a pipe crimp tool is quite a straightforward process. But suppose you are new to the process. In that case, we do recommend practising on a few scrap pipes first to get familiar with the installation. To check that the connection of the crimped pipes and fittings is properly done, PlumbingSell’s PEX crimper bundle comes with a crimp gauge for you to use.
Reasons Plumbers Choose PEX Crimper
While traditional copper and piping are still widely used, more and more plumbers are turning to PEX systems. PEX pipes are well known for their easy installation, affordability and durability. They are often paired with several tools, based on the type of pipes you go with, such as expansion tools for PEX-A pipes and crimp tools for all types of PEX tubing. Here’s a deeper look at why PEX crimping tools have become a popular choice among professionals and DIY homeowners.
Simplicity and Speed
Installing PEX is faster and safer than traditional copper piping. With a PEX crimping tool, there’s no need for soldering, gluing or threading. Simplicity is a major time saver, especially on large-scale or emergency plumbing projects.
Lower Cost of Materials and Tools
PEX tubing and fittings are more budget-friendly compared with copper. A high-quality crimp tool for copper pipe might come at a higher level of cost, while PEX crimping tools are generally more affordable. This has made them a great choice for DIYers who are looking to save money on both tools and materials.
Ideal for Tight or Hard-to-Reach Areas
Many residential projects have plumbing tucked away in cramped spaces, such as between walls, under floors or near appliances. A PEX tubing crimper is naturally flexible for these places.
Consistent, Leak-Free Connections
With the right crimping tool and the proper size crimp rings, PEX connections are reliable and long-lasting. When done correctly, the crimp ring compresses evenly around the pipe and fitting, creating a strong, watertight seal. Unlike soldering, there’s no waiting period for pipes to cool; once crimped, the PEX piping system is ready to go.
Conclusion
A plumbing crimping tool is one of the most practical tools for both DIY homeowners and professional plumbers. Whether you are working with PEX tubing or copper pipes, having the right crimp tool will help you create leak-free, secure connections easily. From basic manual plumbers’ crimp tools to advanced cordless copper pipe crimping tools, there’s a solution for every skill level and project size.
With the right technique—and the right crimp tool—you can skip the mess of soldering and get professional results quickly. If you’re ready to tackle your next plumbing project, head over to PlumbingSell for a wide selection of PEX crimping tools, kits and accessories and other plumbing supplies for you to choose from.
