SharkBite Fittings: Push-to-Connect Guide

Need to join pipe without a torch or thread sealant? SharkBite plumbing fittings push together, grip, and seal on their own — no soldering, no threading, no clamps. 

What Are SharkBite Fittings?

SharkBite fittings are push-to-connect plumbing fittings made from lead-free DZR brass. Instead of soldering or threading a joint, you push the pipe into the fitting and an internal grip ring and O-ring do the rest. 

Inside each fitting: 

• Grip ring — holds onto the pipe once inserted 

• O-ring — seals around the pipe 

To disconnect, a release tool disengages the grip ring so the fitting can be removed and reused. No torch, no flux, no tape. 

Why Use SharkBite Fittings?

A few things make push-to-connect a practical choice for repairs and installations: 

• Wide pipe compatibility: SharkBite fittings work with copper, PEX, CPVC, PE-RT, HDPE, polybutylene, and PVC. You can transition between materials (old copper to new PEX, for example) with a single fitting and no special adapters. 

• Rotate after assembly: once the pipe is inserted, the fitting still spins, so you can line it up with whatever you're connecting to. Useful in tight spaces. 

• Approved behind walls and underground: SharkBite brass fittings are rated for behind-the-wall and underground installation without an access panel (although, always confirm against your local code). 

• Fast: no draining the line completely, no waiting for solder to cool. This makes them especially handy for emergency repairs. 

SharkBite Specifications

Certification to NSF/ANSI 61 and ASSE 1061 means SharkBite fittings are approved for potable water and hydronic heating applications. 

Common Applications

Push-to-connect fittings work well for: 

• Residential and commercial plumbing repairs 

• Water heater installations 

• PEX, copper, and CPVC pipe transitions 

• Emergency repairs where speed matters 

• Any connection where a torch isn't practical 

SharkBite Fittings We Stock

Specialty Sales carries the SharkBite brass plumbing fitting line: 

• 90° Elbows: push-connect on both ends, in 1/4", 3/8", 1/2", 3/4", and 1" 

• Tees: three push-connect ends for branching a line, in 1/4" through 1" 

• Male Connectors: push-connect to MNPT threaded pipe, in straight, reducing, and bullnose styles from 1/4" to 1" 

• Female Connectors: push-connect to FNPT threaded pipe, in straight and reducing styles from 1/4" to 1" 

• Fitting Reducers: step between two push-connect sizes, with a tube stem end, from 3/8" to 1" 

Need SharkBite Fittings?

Contact our sales team to find the right size and fitting for your project, or browse our full SharkBite plumbing fittings selection directly.