Many people use PEX pipes for heating systems because they are easy to install and resist corrosion. However, not all PEX pipes are the same. Some include a special layer that protects metal parts in the system from rust and damage. Oxygen barrier PEX pipes work by blocking oxygen from entering the water inside the tubing, which prevents corrosion in boilers, pumps, and other metal components. This barrier, often made from a thin layer of ethylene vinyl alcohol or aluminum, acts as a shield between the water and the surrounding air. Without it, oxygen can pass through the pipe walls and react with iron or steel parts, causing rust over time. Therefore, systems that use iron or steel, such as closed-loop hydronic heating systems, benefit most from the oxygen barrier PEX. Understanding how this barrier functions helps explain why these pipes last longer and perform better in heating systems. The…
