When I first used PEX, I was really attracted to the manifold systems I was seeing used. So I installed a manifold and I am glad I did. Each of my faucets has its own shut-off valve, along with toilets, dishwashers and showers. The other night while laying in bed I heard a repeated sound of the plumbing cycling. I knew I had a leaky toilet valve, a simple inexpensive fix if I had a replacement valve on hand, but I didn’t. Instead of driving an hour to the nearest home improvement center, I merely went to the manifold and found the valve for that toilet and turned it off. How simple is that? I can pick up a valve while in town and no special trip was needed.
Regardless of whether you chose PEX or copper, a manifold installed to control your individual water outlets can save you many headaches. If one faucet has a problem and needs service, turn the water off to that specific outlet. No service interruptions necessary and the remainder of your water service remains unaffected.
