PEX Manifolds & Water Manifold Systems

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a manifold for PEX?
It really depends on the design of your plumbing setup. The biggest benefit of PEX manifolds is that they act as a central control point for hot and cold water distribution, which makes it much easier to isolate individual lines for repairs. If you’re working with a complex plumbing system where you need direct control over each hot water and cold water line, PEX manifolds are the way to go.

How does a PEX manifold work?
The PEX manifold receives water from the main supply line and re-directs it to multiple branch lines that feed individual fixtures. Each branch line has its own shut-off valve at the manifold so you can control water flow to each fixture independently. This water manifold system design makes it easy to shut off the water to one location without affecting the rest of the system.

How do I build a PEX manifold?
Building a PEX manifold means putting together a series of valves and fittings on a central PEX manifold body. You’ll need to decide on the number of outlets you need and choose between a copper or plastic manifold. Each outlet is typically fitted with a shut-off valve. You attach your main supply lines to the manifold's inlet and then connect each branch line to the individual valves.

How do I install a PEX water manifold system?
First, mount the PEX manifold to a wall in a convenient location, like a utility room or basement. A PEX manifold won’t make your life easier if you can’t find it. Connect the main water supply line to the manifold’s inlet, then run individual PEX pipes from the manifold to each fixture, securing the pipes with crimp, clamp, or push-to-connect fittings. Make sure each line is clearly labeled and has a dedicated shut-off valve. Always test for leaks!

MANABLOC PEX Plumbing System
Viega MANABLOCs are available in crimp and PEX press styles. Each of these water manifold systems utilizes 1/2", 3/8", or a combination of both for port outlets. Each MANABLOC is pre-assembled and includes port connections, drill templates, and a faceplate. However, mounting brackets, supply adapters, and caps must be purchased separately. Standard setup requires two supply adapters (one for hot and one for cold) and one supply end cap.

Crimp Style Manifolds
Copper Crimp Manifolds feature a 1" copper supply constructed of type "L" copper. Crimp Manifolds require the crimp tool and crimp rings for securing connections to PEX tubing. These water manifold systems are available in a valve or valveless configurations. Valved models contain valves at each loop, which provides the ability to isolate different lines. This is especially useful when a leak or necessary repair is required. Crimp ball valves can be manually added to valveless manifolds if desired.

ProPEX Style Manifolds
Uponor (Wirsbo) ProPEX Manifolds require the Milwaukee ProPEX expander tool and ProPEX rings for securing connections to PEX tubing. ProPEX Manifolds are available in copper and engineered plastic (EP) configurations. EP water manifold systems are an economic alternative to copper manifolds but are just as effective. These water manifold systems are available from 3 to 12 outlets and in valved and valveless models.

ProPEX Copper Manifolds feature a 1" copper supply constructed of type "L" copper. These copper manifolds are available with or without stop valves. ProPEX stop valves allow the ability to isolate individual loops without shutting down the entire system.

The engineered plastic (EP) heating manifold by Uponor (Wirsbo) is similar to its brass counterpart. EP radiant heat manifolds are constructed of high-performance thermoplastic. It is suitable for use under conditions of high impact, heat, and moisture. They are resistant to corrosion, pitting, scaling, high chlorine levels and ultraviolet light. EP radiant heat manifolds are an economic alternative to expensive copper, brass and stainless steel manifolds.

Push-Fit Manifolds
Push-Fit water manifold systems have push-to-connect branches, allowing for easier and faster installation to supply multiple water lines. These water manifold systems reduce the risk of leaks by removing excess points of connections.

PEX Press Plastic Manifolds
Compatible with Viega FostaPEX or any standard ASTM size PEX pipe, Viega PEXPress fittings provide a reliable connection system for professional applications. PEXPress Manifolds are available in plastic with multiple options for outlet configurations, resist corrosion, and contribute to safe and worry-free plumbing distribution systems.