Choosing the right plumbing infrastructure for your home is one of those decisions that feels overwhelming because it’s hidden behind walls and under floors. You want peace of mind, knowing that your pipes won’t leak or burst after a few years. Many homeowners and contractors have asked the question: “As Of 2017 Is Rehau Plumbing Any Good?” This article dives deep into the reputation, technology, and real-world performance of Rehau systems during that pivotal year to help you make an informed decision.
The State of Rehau in 2017: A Market Overview
To understand if Rehau was “good” in 2017, we must look at where the company stood in the global market at that time. By 2017, Rehau had already established itself as a Swiss-German giant in polymer processing. They were not a newcomer testing the waters; they were a mature brand with decades of engineering history.
In the United States, 2017 was a significant year for the construction industry. The housing market was recovering strongly, and there was a massive shift toward energy-efficient homes. Rehau positioned itself not just as a pipe manufacturer, but as a total system provider. Their focus was on PEX-a (cross-linked polyethylene) technology, which was gaining traction over traditional copper and PEX-b systems.
During this period, professional plumbers began to notice a trend: fewer callbacks for leaks when using Rehau’s RAUTITAN system. This reliability became a key talking point in trade forums and contractor reviews throughout 2017.
Why 2017 Was a Benchmark Year
- Expansion of Distribution: Rehau expanded its supply chain in North America, making parts more accessible.
- Code Acceptance: More local building codes in the US fully accepted PEX-a for hot and cold water distribution without restrictions.
- Technological Maturity: The Everloc+ connection technology had been refined over several years, proving its stability in diverse climate conditions.
Understanding the Technology: Why PEX-a Matters
When evaluating if Rehau plumbing is good, you cannot ignore the material science behind it. Rehau uses PEX-a, which is manufactured using the Engel method. This process creates a higher degree of cross-linking compared to PEX-b or PEX-c.
Key Advantages of PEX-a
- Memory Effect: PEX-a has excellent “memory.” If you kink the pipe, you can simply apply heat, and it returns to its original shape. This is a huge advantage for installers working in tight spaces.
- Flexibility: It is the most flexible type of PEX, allowing for longer runs with fewer fittings. Fewer fittings mean fewer potential points of failure.
- Freeze Resistance: While no pipe is immune to freezing, PEX-a can expand and contract better than rigid materials, reducing the likelihood of bursting during harsh winters.
For a deeper understanding of polymer standards in plumbing, you can refer to general industry definitions on Wikipedia.
Performance Analysis: Durability and Reliability
So, was it reliable in 2017? The data suggests yes. Independent tests and long-term field studies available by 2017 indicated that Rehau pipes had a projected lifespan of over 50 years when installed correctly.
Leak-Free Connections
The heart of any plumbing system is the connection. Rehau utilized the Everloc+ pressing system. In 2017, this system was praised for its consistency. Unlike crimp rings that require precise tool calibration, the Everloc+ sleeve provided a uniform press every time.
- Statistical Insight: Industry reports from 2016-2017 showed that mechanical press connections had a failure rate of less than 0.1% when installed by certified professionals, significantly lower than traditional soldered copper joints in new constructions.
Chemical Resistance
Rehau pipes demonstrated high resistance to chlorine and other chemicals commonly found in municipal water supplies. This was particularly important in areas with aggressive water quality, where copper pipes might suffer from pinhole leaks due to corrosion.
Rehau vs. The Competition: A 2017 Comparison
To give you a clear picture, let’s compare Rehau against its main competitors in the 2017 market: Uponor and Viega.
| Feature | Rehau (PEX-a) | Uponor (PEX-a) | Viega (PEX-b) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material Type | PEX-a (Engel Method) | PEX-a (Engel Method) | PEX-b (Silane Method) |
| Flexibility | Very High | Very High | Moderate |
| Connection Method | Everloc+ Press | ProPress / Expansion | Crimp / Clamp |
| Kink Recovery | Excellent (Heat Gun) | Excellent (Heat Gun) | Poor (Cut & Replace) |
| Price Point (2017) | Mid-to-High | Mid-to-High | Mid |
| Installer Preference | High for complex runs | High for standard runs | High for speed/cost |
Analysis: In 2017, Rehau and Uponor were often seen as the top two contenders for premium PEX-a systems. Viega was popular for its speed of installation using PEX-b, but Rehau held an edge in flexibility and kink recovery. For DIYers or complex retrofits, Rehau’s ability to fix kinks made it a “safer” choice.
Common Concerns Addressed
Is Rehau Expensive?
In 2017, Rehau was priced at a premium compared to basic PEX-b options. However, contractors argued that the reduced labor time (due to fewer fittings and easier handling) offset the material cost. For the homeowner, the initial investment was higher, but the long-term maintenance risk was lower.
Availability of Parts
One criticism in early 2017 was that Rehau parts were not as ubiquitous as SharkBite or generic PEX in big-box hardware stores. They were primarily distributed through professional plumbing supply houses. This meant that for emergency DIY repairs, finding a specific Rehau fitting might be harder than finding a standard brass connector.
Step-by-Step: What to Look for When Inspecting Rehau Plumbing
If you are buying a home built in or around 2017 with Rehau plumbing, here is how to verify its condition:
- Check the Pipe Markings: Look for the red (hot) and blue (cold) stripes. Ensure the text “REHAU” and “PEX-a” is clearly printed along the pipe.
- Inspect Fittings: Look for the stainless steel sleeves on the connections. They should be smooth and evenly pressed. There should be no gaps between the sleeve and the pipe.
- Look for Kinks: While PEX-a can recover from kinks, severe kinks that were not properly heated out can restrict water flow. Check behind toilets and under sinks.
- Verify Pressure: If possible, ask for a pressure test report from the original installation. Standard residential pressure should hold steady at 60–80 PSI.
FAQ Section
1. Did Rehau have any major recalls in 2017?
No, there were no widespread product recalls for Rehau PEX piping systems in 2017. The brand maintained a strong safety record. Any issues reported were typically related to improper installation rather than manufacturing defects.
2. Can I connect Rehau PEX to copper pipes?
Yes. Rehau offers transition fittings that allow you to connect their PEX-a system to existing copper plumbing. This makes it an excellent choice for renovations where you only want to replace part of the system.
3. Is Rehau plumbing suitable for radiant floor heating?
Absolutely. In fact, this is one of Rehau’s strongest applications. Their PEX-a pipe is highly resistant to oxygen diffusion when used with barrier layers, protecting boilers and manifolds from corrosion. In 2017, Rehau was a top choice for hydronic heating systems.
4. How does Rehau compare to SharkBite for DIY projects?
SharkBite is a push-to-connect fitting ideal for small DIY repairs. Rehau is a full-system solution requiring specialized pressing tools. For a whole-house repipe, Rehau is more professional and durable. For a single sink repair, SharkBite is more convenient.
5. Will Rehau pipes degrade in sunlight?
Like all PEX pipes, Rehau PEX-a is sensitive to UV radiation. It should not be stored outdoors in direct sunlight for extended periods before installation. Once installed behind walls or underground, this is not an issue.
Conclusion
So, as of 2017, is Rehau plumbing any good? The answer is a resounding yes.
By 2017, Rehau had proven itself as a premium, reliable, and technologically advanced option in the plumbing industry. Its use of PEX-a material offered superior flexibility and freeze resistance, while the Everloc+ connection system provided peace of mind against leaks. While it came with a higher price tag and required professional installation tools, the long-term durability and performance justified the investment for both contractors and homeowners.
If you are living in a home with Rehau plumbing installed during this era, you can rest easy. It is a system built to last.
Did you find this review helpful? Share this article with your friends on Facebook or Twitter who are planning renovations or buying new homes. Let’s help others make smarter plumbing choices!
Leave a Reply