Do you plan to have Viega FostaPEX tubing installed for your plumbing lines?
Then, you might want to know about some of the most common Viega FostaPEX problems. While they are well known and recommended for their excellent quality, they have some issues you have to learn about.
Here, I will list some of the core problems with it and the solutions. So, if you are considering getting Viega FostaPEX or already have them, this is the place to be for you.
Problems With The Viega FostaPEX Tubing
The problems I am about to discuss here aren’t that big of a deal. These aren’t issues that you will face for sure. However, there is a possibility that you will come across some of them at some point.
So, let’s go ahead and check out the issues.
- Blistering
One major and pretty common issue people face with Viega FostaPex is the blistering or delamination problem. There is a high chance of this problem occurring if you have installed the tubing system on anything besides radiant.
Usually, the tubing is meant for use with radiant.
Let’s say you have installed the FostaPEX tubing on a baseboard system. In that case, there is a higher chance of temperature swings.
The swing in the temperature can cause the tubes to go through various expansion rates. As a result, you end up blistering on the outer layer of the FostaPEX.
Now, the genuine concern is whether it compromises the O2 barrier or not. Luckily, the blistering tends to be mostly on the outer layer and doesn’t concern the O2 barrier, so it’s not that harmful or serious.
Still, it’s something that you will need to attend to as soon as you can.
- Can Have Leaks Around The Joints Occasionally
Now, this is a very rare issue with Viega FostaPEX. Typically, you won’t have to worry about leaking or rodent issues with your FostaPEX.
But there are some instances where the heat got the best of the tubes around the joints.
Since the joints are the most sensitive part of the FostaPEX, they can easily get leaked. They tend to have more movement than any other part of the tubes.
Because of this, the chances of leaking are high around that area. Especially when the heat is on, this issue can happen.
However, it’s not something that happens all the time or in all cases. It’s a very rare scenario to face with Viega FostaPEX tubing. So, you won’t have to be too worried about this issue.
- Compatibility Is Limited
Compatibility has to be the most important concern with Viega FostaPEX. This tubing only works well when you have Viega PEX press fittings.
Otherwise, you will struggle to make it compatible with other types of systems.
I wouldn’t necessarily consider this a problem, but it’s a factor you must consider. If you already have Viega PEX press fittings, then there is nothing to worry about.
But if you are using anything else, you might have to rethink the whole situation and see what works best for your case.
Well, these are the issues that you come across at FostaPEX. As you can tell, there aren’t many problems to face with the tubing system.
Still, these are issues you should be aware of and know how to solve. So, let’s get onto the solutions.
Solving The Problems With Viega FostaPEX
Here’s the thing, you can do anything about the compatibility factor of the tubes. So, the only solution is to take suggestions from a plumber or use something else.
As for the other two problems, you can try out the following solutions.
- Fixing Blistering
You can very easily avoid blistering issues with proper heat management. If there are no temperature swings on your baseboard system, you won’t get any blistering.
Also, try installing the tubes on a radiant system to prevent the problem from occurring entirely.
- Covering Leaks
Even though it’s very rare to encounter, you must attend to leaks as soon as you notice them.
When you discover the leak, you can use moulds or materials to weld the leaks to fix the issue.
However, replacing the tubing system is the best possible solution in this case because it’s more of a permanent solution.
If you are unsure what to do, you can always rely on a professional to fix your problem. It’s better not to do anything without knowing the actual problem with your tubing.
Is Viega FostaPEX Worth It?
You can go with the Viega FostaPEX tubing without any second thoughts.
Why?
Because they are undoubtedly one of the best in the business. The quality they provide with their tubing is just better in every aspect. The reliability factor of this brand makes them a popular choice, even for professional plumbers.
So, you know that you can’t go wrong with Viega FostaPEX.
Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)
No, FostaPEX is not made anymore. The manufacturers discontinue it.
You can use FostaPEX for portable water or radiant cooling and heating applications.
Viega PEX is PEX-b-type tubing. However, you can use PEX-a from other brands as well.
Viega PEX is wholly manufactured and made in the USA.
Conclusion
In summary, Viega FostaPEX problems aren’t something you have to be concerned about too much. They are very easy to solve and very rare to happen as well. You will hardly come across these problems.
The major drawback is that the manufacturers don’t make the product anymore. So, if you have them or planning to get them, you won’t get any support from the manufacturers.
Also, you can’t get your brand-new hands-on products either. That’s why it’s better to go for alternative options.
