Viega 50243 1/2-Inch PureFlow Zero Lead Poly Alloy PEX Crimp Manabloc With 24 Ports - 15 Cold 9 Hot

I swa this unit installed about 5 years ago and I like the ability to turn on individual branches or supply lines to each individual device. Code here still requires a shut off at the end of each line near the fixture but that is not the main purpose of this manifold in my opinion. I built an addition to my house and it allowed me to get the plumbing to the new fixtures roughed in and then allows me to turn them on as I complete each section. There are a few things to be aware of and plan accordingly. The manifold is a bare manifold and only includes the selected port adapters. The supply adapters are not included and will need to be purchased separately. I also had a minor issue of a port that would seep a very minor amount of water on the order of a drop or 2 a day. I installed the Viega 36205 1/2" port cap on the unused ports as much to keep the port clean until needed. It would be nice to have these items included but as it stands it helps to keep cost lower and keep a bit of flexibility. Another minor issue and it may indeed be a non issue but the 1/2" PEX connections are crimp connections (F1807) as the 3/4 supply adapters I purchased. I contacted Viega and the tech folks there were very helpful, however they ony currently supply the PEX crimp (F1807) fittings. Viega does not currently provide adapters for PEX-A (F1960) expansion style fittings. No matter I crimp the PEX-A on the Viega adapter and use PEX-A expansion the rest of the way. Also in my spare parts inventory is a 51602 1/4 turn valve stem replacement kit and it includes a spare valve key. Overall the installation and of the unit went well and will make this a go to plumbing fixture.

Well it took me 4 years after purchase to install my system but well worth it. Other projects kept jumping in the way but once I started it was a breeze. I have it set up with a three filter whole house system which I can bypass while changing the filters and then to the water softener which I can also bypass if needed. I also added a bypass to the swamp cooler and drain line so it can be drained for the winter time. Coming back to write this review I noticed it is now 100 dollars more than when I bought mine but I would buy it after having installed mine for a 100 more than it costs now, it is that good to use. Take your time to figure out your pex runs and you will be a happy you installed this item.

I have placed this in multiple home remodeling and new construction. Great product and easy to use and install.

I bought this to replace my copper manifolds, which had been badly corroded by our acidic well water. This thing should obviously not corrode. Some people have noted that to install as directed, with the lines going though 2 x 4s on either side, makes it hard to install the ends and later remove the hoses if you have to. There is a simple solution to this. Drill the holes using the template in two 2 x 4s as directed, but use one size larger spade bit. Then, cut the 2 x 4 in half through the holes. Mount half to the wall or a piece of plywood, whichever you are using to mount the manifold, lining up the holes with the outlets. Attach each Pex tube, then put the other half of the 2 x 4 over the tubes and secure it with a couple of screws, just enough to keep the 2 x 4 in place. Any time you need to work on the tubes, you can remove the screws and, voila, there is easy access. It has only been up for a couple of weeks, but all 20 lines or so were installed without a single leak. I thought it was easier to mount the manifold to a piece of plywood and complete as many of the connections as possible before removing the old manifolds and mounting the new one. This limited down time.

Okay, this is a two for one deal....im reviewing the Manobloc first then the seller. First off let me just say I'm no plumber nor did I ever play one on tv. I am however handy around the house and have some common sense. That being said this had to of been one of the easiest projects I have ever done. I replaced all the galvanized water pipes in my home with Pex and this manifold in one long day. That included a new water heater and filtration system as well. I have enough room for the addition I'm putting on this summer as well. As with any project I would highly recommend you do your home work and research all the building codes that apply BEFORE your knee deep in the project. In this case I I also spent a significant amount of time at the local Home Depot getting every fitting and gizmo I thought I might need before the big day. As far as how this manifold peforms...well it works a hell of a lot better than the "trunk and root" system that was here and I have the added bonus of being able to disconnect any single port I want without shutting down half or all the house. Cant say enough good things about this manifold, VERY pleased. Now, the seller...NY Direct. This thing came to my door on time and well packed! I had one missing o ring on one port from the manufacturing process and had to contact the seller. Dans e-mail response and action was lighting fast, I feel he went above and beyond to get me a simple o ring. It was impressive and this is exactly why I continue to buy from online retails like Amazon. Well played!

Pros: All outlets are 1/2. Theoretically, could get 15 gpm to any outlet. Most plumbing works with 1/2. Made out of poly. Cons: Ports are not brass. Includes a 5-page, so called manual. The manual from Viega's is a double edge sword because it's made for Viega products. Good read. The real manual is 90 pages, but seems to be heavily featuring their products, no "standards". Made easy to install, and strange enough - the 24 port exactly fit our home... The hot and colds were spit perfectly. Instead of 12hot/12cold... I ran a single pipe to every fixture without having to split once, they nailed that one. The "made out of plastic" thing can be argued, similar manablocs made out of brass seem to have lower ratings. I'm also pretty sure I was given a used model from NYDirect, my manabloc was wet inside. For anyone who purchased, make sure you rip the caps and feel the inside to verify the product is dry. Now i'll have to test for leaks and file a claim if that is the case.