How to Choose the Most Suitable PEX Expander

The rise in popularity of PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) piping for plumbing and heating systems has brought about an increased demand for efficient and effective PEX expansion tools. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional contractor, selecting the right tool can significantly impact your job's quality and speed. In this review, we'll look at five PEX expander tools: iCrimp IWS-F1960, KIT-1960D, IWS-1960DT, and the electric Milwaukee M12 Expander, DeWalt 20V Expander. Each has unique strengths, but we'll highlight why the IWS-1960DT stands out as the ideal solution for expanding 1-inch pipes with ease. We'll also look at the different application scenarios and user needs for manual vs electric tools.

Key Considerations for Choosing a PEX Expander Tool

Before diving into each product comparison, it's essential to know what to look for in a PEX expander:

1. Ease of Use – How simple is the tool to operate?
2. Portability – Is the tool lightweight and easy to carry?
3. Application Versatility – Is it suitable for different pipe sizes and scenarios?
4. Durability – Does the tool hold up to continuous use?
5. Price – How does the cost compare with the features provided?
6. Additional Features – Are there any unique features that enhance performance?

Section 1: Manual vs Electric Expanders

Before diving into each product, it’s essential to consider the general advantages and disadvantages of manual vs electric PEX expanders.

•  Manual Expanders: These are excellent for home repairs and smaller jobs, offering a cost-effective, lightweight solution that’s easy to carry and store. You don't need to worry about batteries dying, and with tools like the IWS-F1960 and IWS-1960DT, you're equipped with a reliable, durable expander at your fingertips.
• Electric Expanders: Electric models, like the Milwaukee M12 and DeWalt 20V Expander, provide faster, more efficient expansion for large-scale jobs, such as those handled by construction firms. However, battery life and the need for recharging can present challenges, especially on larger pipes like the 1-inch size.

Section 2: Product Comparisons

1- iCrimp IWS-F1960: Lightweight and Affordable

The IWS-F1960 is a solid entry-level manual PEX expander designed for DIY enthusiasts and small-scale repairs. It includes 1/2, 3/4, and 1-inch expansion heads, making it versatile enough for most home installations. Made from aluminum alloy, it is corrosion-resistant and built to last. This tool is lightweight, easy to carry, and has an ergonomic design to reduce fatigue during use.

Pros

• Lightweight and easy to handle
• Ergonomic for comfortable use
• Affordable option for small jobs

Cons

• Lacks auto-rotation feature
• Not ideal for large or heavy-duty tasks

Best For: DIY homeowners, small repairs, and infrequent use.

User Reviews

• I bought this tool because it was one of the cheaper PEX-A tools that looked like it would get a single job done for me and I didn't care if it failed after that. Now that I've used it several times, I'm presently surprised at how well built it is, and I fully expect it to be the only one I ever have to buy.
• This is an inexpensive alternative to the electric PEX-A spreaders. This tool allows me to repair the damage done to PEX-A plumbing for less than a service call.
• Seems to be decent tool, but like others, they require a lot of force. Might not work in tight places and if you need to expand one inch pipe. It might not work.

2. iCrimp KIT-1960D: Reliable with Auto-Rotation for Consistent Results

The KIT-1960D builds on the strengths of the IWS-F1960, but adds a significant upgrade: auto-rotation expansion heads. With 3/8, 1/2, 3/4, and 1-inch heads, this tool ensures a consistent, even expansion of PEX pipes, preventing any leakage due to deep grooves on the interior. This feature is particularly valuable for professionals who want to save time while ensuring a perfect seal.

Pros

• Auto-rotating head ensures uniform expansion
• Prevents internal grooves that could lead to leaks
• Ideal for corner and tight space applications
• More efficient than standard manual expanders

Cons

• Still requires some physical effort compared to electric models
  Best For: Professionals and DIYers looking for reliable, even results without upgrading to an electric tool.

Best For: Professionals and DIYers looking for reliable, even results without upgrading to an electric tool.

User Reviews

•  No batteries. A plus for me because I don’t use it enough to keep batteries living. Build solid and works great.
• This is a great toy and easy to use. This is the perfect tool for a DIYer that only makes a few connections. It is easy to operate and well worth the money. I am very happy I bought this tool instead of the very expensive battery operated version.
• First, the product does what it claims to do. The quality is there. My only complaint is that I would have liked to have longer handles. These are great for someone like me who only uses them for the occasional repair.

 3. iCrimp IWS-1960DT: The Top Performer for 1-Inch Pipe Expansion

The iCrimp IWS-1960DT is the standout tool among these models, thanks to its double extendable handles. The extendable handles give users the leverage they need to easily expand 1-inch pipes with minimal effort, solving a common pain point with manual expanders. Like the KIT-1960D, it features auto-rotation heads for 1/2, 3/4, and 1-inch pipes, ensuring uniform expansion every time. The combination of automatic rotation and extra leverage makes it an ideal solution for professionals and DIYers alike who need to tackle larger pipe sizes without switching to an electric model.

Pros

• Extendable handles provide added leverage, making 1-inch pipe expansion effortless
• Auto-rotating heads ensure even, secure expansions
• Durable aluminum alloy construction
• Handles tight spaces with ease

Cons

• Slightly higher price due to added features, but well worth it for frequent use

Best For: Users who regularly expand larger pipes, especially 1-inch pipes, and want the best manual option without switching to electric.

User Reviews

• The double extendable handles make expanding 1-inch pipes so much easier. I wish I had this tool sooner!
• Overall, it’s a solid tool that performs well for larger jobs. My only concern is the price point; while it offers good features, it feels a bit steep for occasional DIY use.
• The IWS-1960DT makes expanding 1-inch pipes much easier thanks to the extendable handles. However, I found that it can still require quite a bit of effort, especially if you're not used to manual tools.

4. Milwaukee M12 Expander: Fast but Limited by Battery Life

The Milwaukee M12 Expander is an electric model that promises quick, efficient expansion with minimal physical effort. This tool is ideal for contractors or professionals who work on large-scale projects and need to expand pipes of various sizes quickly. However, the battery life can become an issue—particularly when expanding larger pipes like 1-inch, as it can drain the battery faster. Furthermore, users have reported that expanding 1-inch pipes with the M12 can be challenging, as the tool’s power sometimes isn’t sufficient for smooth, consistent results.

Pros

• Fast and easy to use for smaller pipe sizes
• Fast and efficient expansion
• Suitable for large-scale projects
• Minimal physical effort required

Cons

• Battery is prone to failure and needs to be repaired
• Struggles with 1-inch pipes, requiring extra effort
• High cost, overkill for small jobs or infrequent use

Best For: High-volume, frequent users such as contractors who work on smaller pipe sizes and need speed, but should be wary of performance on larger pipes.

User Reviews

• Fantastic tool! Little on the heavy side, but that goes with such quality product.
• Great product, but the 12v battery does not have enough power to expand 1" rings, I learned that the hard way, but if you stick mostly with 3/4 & 1/2" you'll love it.
• I purchased a M12 ProPex expansion tool. Love the tool, works great. The tool came new with two batteries, one worked fine the other would not charge at all. I contacted product support by leaving phone messages and sending emails. They did not answer or contact me at all.

5. DeWalt 20V Expander: Power Meets Versatility

The DeWalt 20V Expander offers robust performance with its powerful 20V battery. It is designed for fast expansions and can handle multiple sizes efficiently. However, similar to the Milwaukee model, users may encounter issues with battery life on larger projects.

Pros

• High power output for quick and efficient expansion
• Versatile size support, capable of handling various pipe sizes
• User-friendly design minimizes fatigue during extended use

Cons

• Expansion head often stays stuck in the pipe without retracting
• Higher price point compared to manual tools
• Potential maintenance issues, particularly with battery performance

Best For: Contractors needing a reliable tool for frequent use, particularly for larger projects where speed and efficiency are crucial.

User Reviews

• I would have rated the product at 5 stars were it not so expensive. Regardless, this is a great tool that is easy to use although a bit heavy. The different heads are easily changed using hand pressure and the light helps illuminate tight places when working.
• I think for the price, the batteries should be bigger. It should also include 4 heads, not 3. I've only used it once for a very small project but I'm pleased with how well it worked and this feels like a solid, quality tool.
• I wanted a battery powered pex expansion tool. There are basically two brands that I know of. They are Dewalt and Milwaukee. I chose Dewalt as I wanted to upgrade my battery powered tools anyway and Dewalt seemed to have a better assortment of tools. I just use it around my home and I have used it several times. It is a well built tool. I am very glad I purchased it.

Section 3: IWS-1960DT and Milwaukee M12 Expander Comparison Video (Demo with 3/4 and 1-inch PEX) 

Section 4: Fair Comparison Chart

Section 5: Conclusion – Why the IWS-1960DT Stands Out

All five tools in this comparison offer their own unique strengths, making them suitable for different types of users and applications. The iCrimp IWS-1960DT stands out as an excellent choice for those who frequently work with 1-inch pipes, thanks to its double extendable handles and auto-rotating expansion heads, which provide extra leverage and ensure even, consistent pipe expansion. It is an ideal tool for both professionals and serious DIY enthusiasts who need a reliable and effective solution for larger pipes, especially when precision and ease of use are important factors.

The Milwaukee M12 Expander and DeWalt 20V Expander, as electric tools, offer the convenience of faster and more efficient operation, which can be a significant advantage for contractors or professionals working on smaller sizes or high-volume projects. However, it does come with a few trade-offs. Over time, its battery life tends to degrade, especially after a certain number of charge cycles, this can lead to battery failures that may require repairs or, in more severe cases, the need to replace the battery entirely. On a full charge, the Milwaukee M12 and DeWalt 20V Expander can typically handle 3/4-inch pipes a limited number of times and even fewer expansions for 1-inch pipes before needing to be recharged. This can slow down progress on larger projects, especially if frequent recharging is required. Additionally, if the tool is left unused for long periods, the battery may deteriorate, making it less suitable for infrequent home repairs.

Moreover, when handling 1-inch pipes, users of the Milwaukee M12 Expander may find it a bit challenging. The tool tends to heat up after each rotation, causing shrinkage and requiring multiple expansions to complete the task. This contrasts with the IWS-1960DT, which handles 1-inch pipes smoothly without these complications.
In summary, both tools serve their purpose well, but they cater to different user needs. The Milwaukee M12 Expander excels in speed and efficiency for smaller-scale, frequent tasks but presents challenges when dealing with larger pipes and has limitations with battery longevity. On the other hand, the iCrimp IWS-1960DT, with its manual operation, offers a more reliable, maintenance-free solution, particularly for larger pipes and users who value control and consistency without the need to worry about battery performance or power availability. Ultimately, the choice depends on the scale of your projects and whether you prioritize speed or long-term reliability.