When running heating PEX through joists, should the supports be tight, or snug, or loose?

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wmarler

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Hey folks,

I'm running a bunch of oxygen barrier pex-A through joists. These are runs for boiler-fed baseboard heating and will get to 185F. I have Sioux Chief supports (aka "plastic a-holes") to reduce rubbing of the PEX as it expands/contracts.

My question is: should I install these supports to squeeze the PEX hard, preventing movement of the PEX within these supports as the PEX expands under the heat, or should I install these supports loose, so the PEX is more free move within them, as it expands?

My goal here is for the system to be as quiet as possible during operation.

Thanks, in advance,
 

Integrity Repipe

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When running PEX through joists for heating, it’s important to allow for some movement due to thermal expansion. The supports should not be tight; snug or slightly loose is ideal. This gives the PEX enough room to expand and contract as it heats and cools, minimizing noise from rubbing or stress. Using the Sioux Chief supports is a good choice since they’re designed to reduce friction, but make sure to space them properly—typically every 4-6 feet—to keep the runs secure without restricting movement.
 
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