Why Pipe Fittings Matter: The Truth About SharkBites
Does pineapple belong on pizza? Should the toilet paper roll over or under? Is GIF pronounced /gif/ or /jif/? These and countless other controversies have divided humanity since the dawn of time. When it comes to plumbing, there is a similar controversy around the use of SharkBite fittings. These have become a popular choice for quick fixes because they’re so easy to use and require no special tools or skills. A lot of DIYers take the SharkBite route and even some pros. But at Rx-Plumbing, we’ve seen too many leaks caused by failed SharkBite fittings, especially underground ones. While they might work in a pinch, they’re not the best long-term solution. That’s why we use insulated fittings instead, which last longer and hold up better over time.
Let’s dig a little deeper into this whole issue. Why do pipe fittings even matter so much? What exactly are SharkBite fittings and why are we opposed to them? Keep reading to find out.
“We’ve seen an underground SharkBite repair go bad after just two or three years.”
What Are SharkBite Fittings?
SharkBite fittings are push-to-connect plumbing connectors that let you join pipes without soldering, glue, or clamps. They work with copper, PEX, CPVC, and PE-RT pipes and use an internal rubber O-ring and stainless-steel grab ring to create a seal. These components make them easy to install, but also introduce more potential failing points, especially under certain conditions like underground pressure and moisture.
Why Do Some People Use SharkBite Fittings?
SharkBite fittings reduce the amount of time, tools, and expertise needed to complete pipe work. DIYers, handymen, and even some plumbers cite the following reasons for using SharkBites:
Easy to Install – No special tools or skills required.
Fast – You can connect pipes in seconds.
Versatile – They work with multiple types of pipe.
Good for Temporary Fixes – They’re handy in emergencies while waiting for permanent repairs.
While these benefits certainly make SharkBite fittings attractive, they also introduce some major downsides, especially for underground plumbing.
Why Do We Caution Against SharkBite?
A lot of professional plumbers avoid using them, including ourselves. Here’s a list of the disadvantages associated with SharkBite installations and repairs:
O-Ring Wear and Tear – The rubber inside is vulnerable to degradation and will leak once compromised.
Not Ideal for High Pressure – They don’t hold up as well as soldered or compression fittings.
Durability Issues – Moisture, dirt, and temperature changes can break them down and result in leaks.
No Insulation – They aren’t protected from freezing or corrosion in underground settings.
Higher Failure Rates Underground – When buried, they are even more likely to degrade due to constant moisture exposure and shifting soil.
Loose Connection Risk – The push-to-connect mechanism can fail if the pipe shifts or if it isn’t installed with the proper care, which is often the case.
Expensive – They cost more than traditional fittings but don’t last as long.
Not Always Code-Compliant – Some areas don’t allow them for permanent installations.
How Long Do SharkBites Actually Last?
The manufacturer claims that they last up to 25 years when properly installed. However, we often run into plumbing leaks caused by failed SharkBites. We’ve seen an underground SharkBite repair go bad after just two or three years. While they can last in the right conditions, they’re simply not the best choice for permanent jobs—especially underground. The risk of leaks and failure is too high, making them unreliable for long-term use. Some plumbers use them only as a temporary solution while planning a more durable repair.
If you’ve hired a professional plumber to install or repair some piping, ask them ahead of time if they plan to use SharkBite. A plumber who regularly uses these fittings is likely doing it to save their own time and energy. That kind of mindset can result in hasty repair techniques or poor attention-to-detail, which is often the underlying issue with the fitting failures that we encounter.
What Are Insulated Fittings?
At Rx-Plumbing, we repair underground SharkBite leaks with insulated fittings. These are specially designed pipe connectors that offer extra protection against freezing, moisture, and corrosion. They’re usually made from durable materials like brass or stainless steel and have built-in insulation to shield against extreme conditions. They can endure underground environments for years on end to ensure long-term reliability that will put your mind at ease.
Why Are Insulated Fittings Better?
Our mission at Rx-Plumbing is to earn the trust of our neighbors and truly benefit our community. We’ve been in the plumbing industry for years and have personally trained many plumbers up in the trade. We know better than anyone that a lot of homeowners have experienced poor plumbing service at some point in their lives. Whether it was from poor materials, no communication, a salesman attitude, or lack of expertise, premium customer care can be hard to find. By the way, here’s a great guide on how to find a good plumber!
We’re committed to five-star service in every aspect of our company, including the fittings we use. Our goal is to fix it once! That’s why we’re big proponents of using the best quality materials and taking the long road to dependable plumbing. Insulated fittings are our weapon of choice for underground plumbing for several reasons:
Last Longer – Insulated fittings are specifically engineered to withstand underground conditions for years!
Create a Stronger Seal – Unlike SharkBite, they use crimped or soldered connections that won’t loosen from sifting soil.
Handle Temperature Changes – Their insulation protects the fitting against the effects of freezes and extreme heat.
Resist Corrosion – Moisture and dirt won’t degrade these fittings as quickly as they would a SharkBite.
More Reliable Under Pressure – They’re designed to maintain their integrity under heavy use and high water pressure.
Plumbing Reliability Over Convenience
Plumbing repairs shouldn’t be about quick fixes that will fail in a few years. They should be about long-term solutions that give homeowners peace of mind. At Rx-Plumbing, we’ve seen firsthand the problems caused by SharkBite fittings. While they might seem convenient, they simply don’t hold up underground. Between O-ring deterioration, loose connections, and exposure to moisture and pressure, they are not built to last in the long run.
When you’re dealing with underground plumbing, durability and reliability are everything. A leaking water line can lead to costly repairs, high water bills, and even foundation damage. That’s why we refuse to take shortcuts. Instead of using SharkBite fittings, we choose insulated fittings for underground repairs. These fittings create stronger seals, resist corrosion, and can withstand extreme conditions, making them the better choice for permanent plumbing solutions.
We know how frustrating it is to deal with plumbing issues that just won’t go away—especially when previous plumbers haven’t provided real answers or lasting fixes. One of our customers, Carla, was gracious enough to share her experience:
"My husband and I are very appreciative of Alex's expertise on diagnosing and understanding our plumbing problems. We have had a persistent issue and had prior plumbers let us down and provide no insights or solutions, but still took our money. It means so much to have someone follow through and get to the bottom of the problem. Thank you!"
This is the commitment and mission that sets Rx-Plumbing apart. We don’t just patch up problems—we find real solutions. If you’ve experienced an underground water leak or suspect an issue with your plumbing system, don’t settle for quick fixes. Trust a team that believes in doing the job right the first time. Rx-Plumbing is committed to providing high-quality, long-lasting repairs that won’t leave you with another leak down the road.
Call us today to schedule an inspection, and let us help you find the best solution for your underground plumbing needs.
