When it comes to connecting PEX piping to fittings/other pipes, a lot of plumbing professionals use Pex clamps largely because of their more straightforward installation compared to Pex crimps even in tight spaces.
Another benefit is that clamp connections are also way easier to undo if you placed the clamp in the wrong spot or you’ve made some other mistake.
That said, it’s important to understand the correct tools to use and the exact removal procedure to prevent damage to the pipe or other components.
Which is where this article comes in…
Keep reading to learn how to remove Pex clamps using different methods and tools (some pretty inexpensive).
How to remove pex clamps
As mentioned previously, there are a couple of good ways to remove PEX cinch clamp.
Method 1: How to remove pex clamps with a Pex clamp cutters.
Requirements:
- Pex clamp cutter tool such as this excellent cutter for removing clamps
- Needle nose pliers (optional)
- A clean piece of cloth/rag
Safety precautions:
Put on your safety gloves to protect yourself from possible injuries when cutting the Pex clamps.
Preliminaries:
- Shut down water supply
Shut down the water supply to the PEX water line where the Pex fitting you plan to remove is.
For the most part, you can do this by simply rotating the right water supply valve.
- Cleaning the surface
Wipe the surface in and around the Pex clamp with your clean piece of cloth/rag. A clean working area is a boon to your efforts.
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Removal procedure:
Step 1: Get ready to cut the clamp
Slide the clamp cutting tool around the clamp such that the jaws of the cutter will be right under the Pex clamp.
Step 2: Cutting the clamp
Without using excessive energy, compress the handles of your clamp tool.
This applies pressure on the jaws and they will cut through the clamp at some point.
Ramp up the pressure if necessary but again gently.
Tip: You’ll hear a click-like sound as the tool cuts the Pex clamp.
Step 3: Pull the Clamp out
Finally, pull the remaining part of the clamp off.
Tip: Use the needle nose pliers to force the clamp off if you fail to do so with your hands.
Method 2: How to remove Pex clamps using a wire cutter
This tactic is very close to the method we have tackled above with the key difference being that you replace the Pex clamp cutter with a wire cutter.
It’s worth trying out if you have a wire cutter and not a Pex clamp cutting tool at home.
Requirements:
- A wire cutter
- A flatbed screwdriver
- A clean piece of cloth/rag
Preliminaries:
- Shut down the water supply
- Clean the area as indicated in method 1