{"product_id":"sharkbite-3-4-in-x-3-4-in-fip-stainless-steel-braided-flexible-water-heater-connector-with-ball-valve-18-in-length","title":"GE SharkBite 3\/4 in. x 3\/4 in. FIP Stainless Steel Braided Flexible Water Heater Connector with Ball Valve (18 in. Length) -  U3088FLEX18BVLF","description":"\u003ch2\u003eGE SharkBite 3\/4 in. x 3\/4 in. FIP Stainless Steel Braided Flexible Water Heater Connector with Ball Valve (18 in. Length) -  U3088FLEX18BVLF\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eFlexible water heater connectors allow you to work in tight spaces and easily connect water heaters with existing pipes that don't line up. Integrated ball valve allows the water heater supply to be shut-off. Approved for use on electric or gas water heaters with a flue vent. Innovative design reduces the need for extra joints or fittings allowing for faster install time.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eFeatures\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntegrated ball valve for easy shut-off.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eApproved for electric and gas water heaters with flue vent.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCompatible with PEX, copper, CPVC and PE-RT pipe.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eNo special tools, crimping, glue or soldering is needed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCan be installed in wet lines.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCan be rotated for easier and faster installation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIdeal for working in tight spaces.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eWhat our Experts Think\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1e6n2rg\" data-start=\"27\" data-end=\"266\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"29\" data-end=\"77\"\u003eIntegrated shutoff + connection in one unit:\u003c\/strong\u003e Built-in ball valve allows instant isolation of the water heater line—no need for extra valves or additional fittings during service or emergencies. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"icfjam\" data-start=\"268\" data-end=\"487\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"270\" data-end=\"313\"\u003eFastest tool-free installation upgrade:\u003c\/strong\u003e Push-to-connect inlet eliminates soldering, crimping, and threading, making installs significantly faster in tight mechanical spaces. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"iyj5jd\" data-start=\"489\" data-end=\"714\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"491\" data-end=\"543\"\u003e18-inch flexible braided stainless steel design:\u003c\/strong\u003e Provides strong flexibility to handle pipe misalignment while absorbing vibration and reducing stress on water heater connections. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"d161eq\" data-start=\"716\" data-end=\"927\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"718\" data-end=\"752\"\u003eProfessional-grade durability:\u003c\/strong\u003e Lead-free brass body with stainless steel braid delivers long-term corrosion resistance and reliable performance in hot water systems. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1qn0ham\" data-start=\"929\" data-end=\"1112\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"931\" data-end=\"966\"\u003eWorks with multiple pipe types:\u003c\/strong\u003e Compatible with copper, PEX, CPVC, PE-RT, and HDPE systems—ideal for both retrofit and new installations. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"r6jgon\" data-start=\"1114\" data-end=\"1303\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"1116\" data-end=\"1145\"\u003eWet-line install capable:\u003c\/strong\u003e Can be installed and pressure-tested immediately on active plumbing lines, reducing downtime during replacement jobs. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"4kccea\" data-start=\"1305\" data-end=\"1501\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"1307\" data-end=\"1347\"\u003eHigh-performance residential rating:\u003c\/strong\u003e Engineered for typical water heater conditions up to high pressure and temperature demands found in home systems. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"gdb0yd\" data-start=\"1503\" data-end=\"1672\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"1505\" data-end=\"1536\"\u003eInstaller efficiency focus:\u003c\/strong\u003e Combines flexibility, shutoff control, and quick-connect technology into one component to reduce labor time and simplify system layout.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eQ\u0026amp;A\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003csection class=\"text-token-text-primary w-full focus:outline-none [--shadow-height:45px] has-data-writing-block:pointer-events-none has-data-writing-block:-mt-(--shadow-height) has-data-writing-block:pt-(--shadow-height) [\u0026amp;:has([data-writing-block])\u0026gt;*]:pointer-events-auto [content-visibility:auto] supports-[content-visibility:auto]:[contain-intrinsic-size:auto_100lvh] R6Vx5W_threadScrollVars scroll-mb-[calc(var(--scroll-root-safe-area-inset-bottom,0px)+var(--thread-response-height))] scroll-mt-[calc(var(--header-height)+min(200px,max(70px,20svh)))]\" dir=\"auto\" data-turn-id=\"request-WEB:125a269e-b4d4-4d0d-8950-8f45ef49691d-10\" data-testid=\"conversation-turn-22\" data-scroll-anchor=\"false\" data-turn=\"assistant\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"text-base my-auto mx-auto pb-10 [--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-xs,calc(var(--spacing)*4))] @w-sm\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-sm,calc(var(--spacing)*6))] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-margin:var(--thread-content-margin-lg,calc(var(--spacing)*16))] px-(--thread-content-margin)\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"[--thread-content-max-width:40rem] @w-lg\/main:[--thread-content-max-width:48rem] mx-auto max-w-(--thread-content-max-width) flex-1 group\/turn-messages focus-visible:outline-hidden relative flex w-full min-w-0 flex-col agent-turn\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col gap-4 grow\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"c0993a61-4148-4b37-90a8-00f5bd3a16e3\" data-turn-start-message=\"true\" dir=\"auto\" data-message-model-slug=\"gpt-5-3-mini\" class=\"min-h-8 text-message relative flex w-full flex-col items-end gap-2 text-start break-words whitespace-normal outline-none keyboard-focused:focus-ring [.text-message+\u0026amp;]:mt-1\" tabindex=\"0\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"flex w-full flex-col gap-1 empty:hidden\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"markdown prose dark:prose-invert w-full wrap-break-word light markdown-new-styling\"\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"143\" data-end=\"425\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"143\" data-end=\"197\"\u003eQ: What is the SharkBite U3088FLEX18BVLF used for?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"197\" data-end=\"200\"\u003eA: It is used to connect a water heater to plumbing lines while also providing an integrated shut-off ball valve for fast and convenient water control during maintenance or emergencies. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"427\" data-end=\"696\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"427\" data-end=\"478\"\u003eQ: What are the key features of this connector?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"478\" data-end=\"481\"\u003eA: It includes 3\/4\" FIP connections, an 18-inch stainless steel braided flexible hose, lead-free brass fittings, and a built-in ball valve for shut-off capability in one unit. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"698\" data-end=\"926\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"698\" data-end=\"744\"\u003eQ: Does it require tools for installation?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"744\" data-end=\"747\"\u003eA: No, it uses SharkBite push-to-connect technology, allowing fast installation without soldering, crimping, or glue, even in tight spaces. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"928\" data-end=\"1149\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"928\" data-end=\"977\"\u003eQ: What pipe materials is it compatible with?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"977\" data-end=\"980\"\u003eA: It is compatible with PEX, copper, CPVC, PE-RT, and HDPE SDR-9 piping systems, making it highly versatile for plumbing setups. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1151\" data-end=\"1333\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1151\" data-end=\"1191\"\u003eQ: Can it be installed on wet lines?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1191\" data-end=\"1194\"\u003eA: Yes, it can be installed on wet or dry lines and pressure tested immediately after installation. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1335\" data-end=\"1553\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1335\" data-end=\"1386\"\u003eQ: What is the pressure and temperature rating?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1386\" data-end=\"1389\"\u003eA: It is rated up to 200 PSI and around 140–180°F depending on application, suitable for standard residential water heaters. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1555\" data-end=\"1778\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1555\" data-end=\"1620\"\u003eQ: What is the benefit of the braided stainless steel design?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1620\" data-end=\"1623\"\u003eA: The braided hose provides flexibility for tight installations while maintaining strength and reducing stress on fittings and water heater connections.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1780\" data-end=\"2019\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1780\" data-end=\"1824\"\u003eQ: What does the built-in ball valve do?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1824\" data-end=\"1827\"\u003eA: It allows quick shut-off of water directly at the water heater, making repairs and replacements faster without shutting off water to the entire home. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2021\" data-end=\"2198\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2021\" data-end=\"2066\"\u003eQ: Is it safe for drinking water systems?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"2066\" data-end=\"2069\"\u003eA: Yes, it is made with lead-free materials and certified for potable water applications. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2200\" data-end=\"2435\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2200\" data-end=\"2252\"\u003eQ: Why choose the SharkBite Max U3088FLEX18BVLF?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"2252\" data-end=\"2255\"\u003eA: It combines fast installation, flexible braided construction, and an integrated shut-off valve, making it a convenient and reliable solution for modern water heater connections.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"mt-3 w-full empty:hidden\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/section\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMaintenance Tips\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"173s20f\" data-start=\"148\" data-end=\"257\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"150\" data-end=\"178\"\u003eRoutine Leak Inspection:\u003c\/strong\u003e Check both FIP ends and valve body for moisture, corrosion, or slow seepage.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1cwzgza\" data-start=\"258\" data-end=\"403\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"260\" data-end=\"288\"\u003eExercise the Ball Valve:\u003c\/strong\u003e Turn the valve fully open\/closed every 2–3 months to prevent stiffness and ensure emergency shutoff reliability.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"vv7uyc\" data-start=\"404\" data-end=\"527\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"406\" data-end=\"430\"\u003ePrevent Hose Stress:\u003c\/strong\u003e Keep the braided stainless steel line relaxed—avoid twisting, sharp bends, or pulling tension.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1z49hp\" data-start=\"528\" data-end=\"643\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"530\" data-end=\"557\"\u003eInspect Braided Sleeve:\u003c\/strong\u003e Look for fraying, bulging, or rust spots that may indicate wear or pressure stress.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"q2tc2a\" data-start=\"644\" data-end=\"779\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"646\" data-end=\"675\"\u003eSecure Threaded Fittings:\u003c\/strong\u003e Verify FIP connections remain tight, especially after thermal expansion cycles from the water heater.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1vnonta\" data-start=\"780\" data-end=\"889\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"782\" data-end=\"809\"\u003eFlush the Water Heater:\u003c\/strong\u003e Reduces sediment buildup that can strain seals and reduce connector lifespan.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"y3pyqu\" data-start=\"890\" data-end=\"1003\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"892\" data-end=\"924\"\u003eMonitor Pressure Conditions:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ensure system stays within rated limits to protect valve and hose integrity.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1ntud48\" data-start=\"1004\" data-end=\"1109\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"1006\" data-end=\"1029\"\u003eReplace if Damaged:\u003c\/strong\u003e Any leakage, valve stiffness, or visible wear requires immediate replacement.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"GE","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45607293190335,"sku":"Item # 12231741 | Model # U3088FLEX18BVLF","price":8400.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0683\/5703\/0079\/files\/image_cf4e847a-d703-448b-b3ff-78f2facae8e4.jpg?v=1777874974","url":"https:\/\/www.mybackyardzone.com\/products\/sharkbite-3-4-in-x-3-4-in-fip-stainless-steel-braided-flexible-water-heater-connector-with-ball-valve-18-in-length","provider":"Your Outdoor Setup Starts Here","version":"1.0","type":"link"}