{"product_id":"sharkbite-max-1-2-in-push-to-connect-x-3-4-in-fip-x-18-in-braided-stainless-steel-water-heater-connector","title":"GE SharkBite Max 1\/2 in. Push-to-Connect x 3\/4 in. FIP x 18 in. Braided Stainless Steel Water Heater Connector - UR3068FX18","description":"\u003ch2\u003eGE SharkBite Max 1\/2 in. Push-to-Connect x 3\/4 in. FIP x 18 in. Braided Stainless Steel Water Heater Connector - UR3068FX18\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cmeta charset=\"UTF-8\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eSharkBite Max flexible water heater connectors are the fastest and easiest way to connect your water heater to existing pipes in your home. A newly designed stainless steel collet retainer delivers additional strength and durability and provides a 200 psi pressure rating. SharkBite Max connectors do not require a PEX tube liner, and a re-engineered body allows you to insert the pipe using less force and greater ease. No soldering, clamps, unions, glue, or special tools required. After inserting to pipe, stainless steel teeth bite down and grip the pipe tightly while a specially formulated O-ring compresses around the pipe to create a watertight seal. The flexible stainless steel braided hose reduces the need for extra joints or fittings, allowing for faster installs. Available in additional lengths (12 in. to 24 in.) and with integrated ball valve shut off.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch5 class=\"romance\"\u003eFeatures \u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"grid bullet-list-wrapper\"\u003e\n\u003cul class=\"bullet-list bullet-list--margin list list--type-square\"\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"list__item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCompatible with PEX, copper, CPVC PE-RT, or HDPE pipe\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"list__item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eApproved for electric and gas water heaters with flue vent\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"list__item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRequires no special tools to install on hot or cold-water lines\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"list__item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCan be installed on wet or dry lines pressure tested immediately\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"list__item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRotatable after installation and removable\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"list__item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003ePEX tube liner not required\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"list__item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eApproved for underground and behind-the-wall applications with no access panels (wrapping required when burying underground)\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"list__item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eLow-lead DZR corrosion-resistant brass body\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"list__item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eRated to 140°F and 200 psi\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli class=\"list__item\"\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCode approved, IAPMO Listed for details, see specification\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eWhat our Experts Think\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"20rkw1\" data-start=\"27\" data-end=\"244\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"29\" data-end=\"62\"\u003eFast, tool-free installation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Push-to-connect inlet allows quick, solder-free hookup to existing plumbing—perfect for water heater replacements and tight mechanical rooms. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"94jvqx\" data-start=\"246\" data-end=\"462\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"248\" data-end=\"284\"\u003eFlexible 18-inch braided design:\u003c\/strong\u003e Stainless steel braided hose helps absorb vibration and easily bridges misaligned pipes, reducing installation stress and fitting strain. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"nrvq66\" data-start=\"464\" data-end=\"648\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"466\" data-end=\"499\"\u003eUniversal pipe compatibility:\u003c\/strong\u003e Designed to connect copper, PEX, CPVC, and PE-RT systems—making it a versatile upgrade or retrofit solution. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1w34pb9\" data-start=\"650\" data-end=\"857\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"652\" data-end=\"693\"\u003eLeak-resistant engineered connection:\u003c\/strong\u003e Lead-free brass push-to-connect fitting ensures a secure seal with reduced risk of installation error when properly seated. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1wgwpcc\" data-start=\"859\" data-end=\"1072\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"861\" data-end=\"896\"\u003eHigh durability under pressure:\u003c\/strong\u003e Rated for typical residential hot water conditions (up to ~200 PSI and elevated temperatures), supporting long-term system reliability. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"6z6ebc\" data-start=\"1074\" data-end=\"1274\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"1076\" data-end=\"1117\"\u003eRotational flexibility after install:\u003c\/strong\u003e Can be adjusted post-installation to improve alignment without breaking the seal—useful in cramped or uneven setups. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"z011l9\" data-start=\"1276\" data-end=\"1478\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"1278\" data-end=\"1315\"\u003eReduced installation time \u0026amp; cost:\u003c\/strong\u003e Eliminates need for soldering or specialized tools, helping contractors and DIY installers finish jobs faster and cleaner. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"yz6rs8\" data-start=\"1480\" data-end=\"1675\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"1482\" data-end=\"1523\"\u003eProfessional-grade plumbing standard:\u003c\/strong\u003e Commonly used in residential water heater installs for its speed, compatibility, and code-compliant construction.\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-5\" data-testid=\"conversation-turn-12\" 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=\"9c23628d-b1c8-48b1-8eb3-7a766088582e\" 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=\"136\" data-end=\"408\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"136\" data-end=\"208\"\u003eQ: What is the SharkBite UR3068FX18 water heater connector used for?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"208\" data-end=\"211\"\u003eA: It is used to quickly and securely connect a water heater to plumbing lines, enabling fast installation or replacement without soldering or special tools. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"410\" data-end=\"663\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"410\" data-end=\"461\"\u003eQ: What are the key features of this connector?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"461\" data-end=\"464\"\u003eA: It includes a 1\/2\" push-to-connect inlet, 3\/4\" FIP outlet, 18-inch braided stainless steel hose, and lead-free brass construction for durability and safety. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"665\" data-end=\"894\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"665\" data-end=\"707\"\u003eQ: Is installation easy for DIY users?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"707\" data-end=\"710\"\u003eA: Yes, it uses push-to-connect technology, allowing installation without soldering, crimping, or glue, and it can be installed in tight spaces. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"896\" data-end=\"1093\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"896\" data-end=\"941\"\u003eQ: What pipe types is it compatible with?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"941\" data-end=\"944\"\u003eA: It works with PEX, copper, CPVC, PE-RT, and HDPE SDR-9 piping systems for versatile plumbing applications. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1095\" data-end=\"1270\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1095\" data-end=\"1135\"\u003eQ: Can it be installed on wet lines?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1135\" data-end=\"1138\"\u003eA: Yes, it can be installed on wet lines and pressure tested immediately after installation. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1272\" data-end=\"1469\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1272\" data-end=\"1325\"\u003eQ: What are the pressure and temperature ratings?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1325\" data-end=\"1328\"\u003eA: It is rated up to 200 PSI and 140°F, making it suitable for standard residential water heater use. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1471\" data-end=\"1651\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1471\" data-end=\"1531\"\u003eQ: What makes the braided stainless steel design useful?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1531\" data-end=\"1534\"\u003eA: The braided design adds flexibility for tight spaces while maintaining strength and reducing stress on fittings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1653\" data-end=\"1832\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1653\" data-end=\"1698\"\u003eQ: Is it safe for drinking water systems?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1698\" data-end=\"1701\"\u003eA: Yes, it uses lead-free brass components and is certified for potable water applications. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1834\" data-end=\"2009\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1834\" data-end=\"1869\"\u003eQ: Can it be removed or reused?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1869\" data-end=\"1872\"\u003eA: Yes, it can be disconnected using a SharkBite removal tool or clip, making maintenance easier. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2011\" data-end=\"2212\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2011\" data-end=\"2058\"\u003eQ: Why choose the SharkBite Max UR3068FX18?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"2058\" data-end=\"2061\"\u003eA: It offers fast installation, strong leak-resistant connections, and flexible design, making it a reliable upgrade for water heater plumbing systems.\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\u003cbr\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=\"16n7md1\" data-start=\"140\" data-end=\"244\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"142\" data-end=\"158\"\u003eLeak Checks:\u003c\/strong\u003e Inspect both ends (push-to-connect + FIP) regularly for any moisture or slow drips.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1ttn7cm\" data-start=\"245\" data-end=\"365\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"247\" data-end=\"274\"\u003eAvoid Twisting\/Kinking:\u003c\/strong\u003e Keep braided stainless steel line straight and gently curved to prevent internal stress.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"lirlfe\" data-start=\"366\" data-end=\"491\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"368\" data-end=\"390\"\u003eSecure Connection:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ensure push-to-connect is fully seated and FIP threads remain tightly fastened after installation.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1k3cdq0\" data-start=\"492\" data-end=\"613\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"494\" data-end=\"521\"\u003eCorrosion \u0026amp; Wear Check:\u003c\/strong\u003e Look for fraying, bulging, or corrosion on the braided jacket, especially in humid areas.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"wnzyrr\" data-start=\"614\" data-end=\"728\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"616\" data-end=\"643\"\u003eMonitor Water Pressure:\u003c\/strong\u003e Keep system within rated pressure limits to avoid premature wear or joint failure.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"71c60r\" data-start=\"729\" data-end=\"829\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"731\" data-end=\"761\"\u003eFlush Heater Periodically:\u003c\/strong\u003e Reduces sediment buildup that can stress connectors and fittings.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"9kmt5p\" data-start=\"830\" data-end=\"935\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"832\" data-end=\"854\"\u003eReplace When Aged:\u003c\/strong\u003e Swap out if you notice stiffness, leaks, or visible damage to maintain safety.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e","brand":"GE","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45607293583551,"sku":"Item # 12231722 | Model # UR3068FX18","price":3900.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0683\/5703\/0079\/files\/image_53e55ac3-bd97-4da3-ae49-3e13a3d4279d.jpg?v=1777618278","url":"https:\/\/www.mybackyardzone.com\/products\/sharkbite-max-1-2-in-push-to-connect-x-3-4-in-fip-x-18-in-braided-stainless-steel-water-heater-connector","provider":"Your Outdoor Setup Starts Here","version":"1.0","type":"link"}