What Is the Black Ring on My PEX Pipe and How Do I Remove It?
If you have PEX plumbing in your home, you may have noticed a black ring clamped around the white PEX pipe where it connects to a brass fitting. Many homeowners wonder what this ring does and how to remove it when a repair or replacement is needed. The short answer: it’s a PEX crimp or cinch ring, and it plays a critical role in sealing your plumbing system.
What Is the Black Ring on a PEX Pipe?
The black ring you see is known as a PEX crimp ring (sometimes called a cinch ring or clamp ring). It is used in PEX plumbing systems to securely fasten the pipe to a fitting, such as a brass valve or coupling.
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Material: Usually stainless steel (black-coated) or copper.
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Purpose: To compress the PEX pipe tightly against the fitting’s barbed surface, creating a watertight seal.
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Installation: Applied with a specialized crimp tool or cinch tool that squeezes the ring uniformly around the pipe.
Without this ring, water pressure could easily push the PEX tubing off the fitting, leading to leaks or even flooding.
Why Are PEX Crimp Rings Important?
PEX plumbing has become popular because it is flexible, durable, and easier to install than copper. But for it to work reliably, connections must be secure. The crimp ring ensures:
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Leak Prevention – By holding the pipe firmly in place, it prevents water from seeping out.
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Durability – Properly installed rings can last for decades without issues.
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Cost Efficiency – Compared to threaded fittings or push-to-connect systems, crimp rings are affordable and widely available.
Can You Reuse a PEX Crimp Ring?
No — once installed, crimp rings cannot be reused. If you need to disconnect or repair the joint, you must cut off the old ring and replace it with a new one.
How to Remove a PEX Crimp Ring
If you need to replace or adjust your PEX connection, here’s how to safely remove the black ring:
1. Shut Off the Water Supply
Always turn off the water to your home or to the specific line before working on plumbing. Open a nearby faucet to release pressure.
2. Use the Right Tools
There are a few ways to remove a crimp ring:
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PEX Ring Removal Tool – The safest and easiest method. This tool is designed specifically to cut through crimp rings without damaging the fitting.
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Cutting Tools – If you don’t have the removal tool, you can carefully use:
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Diagonal cutters
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A rotary tool (like a Dremel)
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A hacksaw (for larger rings)
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3. Cut Along the Side of the Ring
Slice through the ring at one point. Be careful not to cut into the brass fitting or the PEX pipe itself.
4. Pry Off the Ring
Once cut, use pliers to pull the ring apart and slide it off.
5. Inspect the Pipe and Fitting
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If the PEX pipe is scratched or damaged, cut off the damaged section and start fresh.
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If the fitting is still in good condition, you can reuse it with a new ring.
How to Reinstall a PEX Connection
After removing the ring, you’ll need to reconnect the pipe:
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Slide a new crimp or cinch ring onto the PEX pipe.
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Insert the brass fitting into the pipe until it touches the shoulder.
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Position the ring about 1/8–1/4 inch from the pipe’s end.
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Use a PEX crimp tool or cinch tool to secure the ring.
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Check the connection with a PEX Go/No-Go gauge to ensure a proper crimp.
Alternatives to Crimp Rings
While crimp rings are the most common, there are other connection methods:
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Cinch Clamps (Stainless Steel Clamps) – Easier to use in tight spaces and require only one tool size.
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SharkBite Push-to-Connect Fittings – Tool-free and removable, but more expensive.
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Expansion Fittings (Uponor/Wirsbo) – Use an expansion tool and special PEX tubing for strong, flexible connections.
Each method has pros and cons, but most plumbers still rely on crimp rings for affordability and reliability.
When to Call a Professional Plumber
While removing and replacing a crimp ring can be a DIY project, there are times you may need help:
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If the pipe is in a tight space that makes tool use difficult.
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If you see multiple leaks or widespread pipe issues.
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If you’re not comfortable cutting and reconnecting plumbing.
Hiring a licensed plumber ensures the job is done correctly and saves you from costly mistakes.
Final Thoughts
The black ring on your PEX pipe is a crimp or cinch ring that keeps your plumbing connections secure. While it cannot be reused, it can be safely removed with the right tools and replaced with a new one.
For DIY homeowners, this is a manageable repair, but always remember: water damage can be costly, so take your time, use proper tools, and don’t hesitate to call a professional if needed.
By understanding what this ring does and how to work with it, you’ll be better prepared to maintain and repair your PEX plumbing system.
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