SharkBite U3088FLEX Flexible W...
IN STOCK (leaves warehouse same day if ordered before 3pm ET)
$19.05

SharkBite U3088FLEX Flexible Water Heater Connector, Braided Stainless Steel

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Model: U3088FLEX12LF

In Stock (leaves warehouse same day if ordered before 3pm ET)

$19.05
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SharkBite U3088FLEX Flexible Water Heater Connector, Braided Stainless Steel

The SharkBite U3088FLEX flexible water heater connector is built to speed up hot and cold water supply hookups on residential and light commercial water heater installs. Available in a 3/4-in SharkBite push-fit x 3/4-in FIP connection, this connector comes in a 12-in length to bridge the gap between a threaded tank nipple and copper, PEX, CPVC, or PE-RT supply piping. Thread the FIP end onto the water heater tank nipple after applying pipe thread tape, tighten with channel locks, then push the SharkBite end directly onto the pipe with no solder, glue, unions, or tools required. The connector features a braided stainless steel jacket over a compact, robust DZR brass body and is rated to 200 PSI and 200 degrees F, making it suitable for both potable water distribution and hydronic heating applications.

Key Features

  • Trade Size: 3/4-in SharkBite push-fit x 3/4-in FIP x 12-in length connector for water heater supply line hookups.
  • Durable Construction: Braided stainless steel outer jacket over a compact, robust DZR brass body for a corrosion-resistant, durable fitting.
  • Push-to-Connect End: SharkBite push-fit connection works on copper, PEX, CPVC, or PE-RT pipe with no solder, glue, unions, or tools needed.
  • Threaded End: 3/4-in FIP connection threads directly onto standard water heater tank nipples.
  • Pressure & Temperature Rating: Rated to 200 PSI and 200 degrees F for reliable performance on hot and cold supply lines.
  • Dual-Purpose Design: Designed for hydronic heating as well as potable water distribution.

Certifications & Compliance

  • Approved by ASME A112.18.6-2009/CSA B125.6-200
  • NSF 372 Compliant
  • NSF/ANSI 61 Compliant

Technical Specifications

  • Connection Size: 3/4-in SharkBite x 3/4-in FIP
  • Length: 12-in
  • Body Material: DZR Brass
  • Jacket Material: Braided Stainless Steel
  • Pressure Rating: 200 PSI
  • Temperature Rating: 200 degrees F
  • Packaging: 12 ea

Typical Applications

  • Water Heater Hot and Cold Supply Line Connections
  • Residential Water Heater Replacement and New Installs
  • Connecting PEX, Copper, CPVC, or PE-RT to Threaded Tank Fittings
  • Hydronic Heating System Connections
  • Potable Water Distribution Rough-In

Why SharkBite?

SharkBite water heater connectors are built with a corrosion-resistant DZR brass body and braided stainless steel jacket, combining push-to-connect speed with a threaded FIP end for a secure tank connection. Backed by ASME A112.18.6-2009/CSA B125.6-200, NSF 372, and NSF/ANSI 61 compliance, the U3088FLEX gives plumbers and contractors a fast, tool-minimal way to complete water heater installs without solder, glue, or unions. The 200 PSI and 200 degrees F rating ensures dependable performance across both hot and cold supply line applications, while the compact DZR brass body resists dezincification for long-term durability in demanding plumbing environments.

Manufacturer Resources

Product Specs

list_batch:
SHK-20260923
Product Type:
Water Heater Connector
Product Finish:
Braided Stainless Steel
Connection Type:
Push-to-Connect x FIP
Department:
Plumbing
Product Subgroup:
Fittings and Valves
Product Material:
DZR Brass
Product Group:
Fitting

SharkBite U3088FLEX12LF – Frequently Asked Questions

1) What pipe can the SharkBite U3088FLEX water heater connector push onto?
The push-fit end of the U3088FLEX seats directly on copper, PEX, CPVC, or PE-RT pipe, with no solder, glue, unions, or tools. The other end is a 3/4 inch FIP thread that goes onto the water heater tank nipple, so one connector takes you from a threaded tank to whatever supply material is already in the wall.
2) Is the U3088FLEX connector rated for the hot side of a water heater?
Both sides. It is rated to 200 PSI and 200 degrees F, which covers hot and cold supply hookups, and it is also listed for hydronic heating as well as potable water distribution.
3) What lengths does the SharkBite U3088FLEX come in?
Two: a 12 inch connector (U3088FLEX12LF) and a 24 inch connector (U3088FLEX24LF). Both are 3/4 inch SharkBite push-fit x 3/4 inch FIP. Pick the length by the actual gap between the tank nipple and where you can make the push connection on the supply pipe, leaving the braided hose a gentle sweep rather than a tight bend.
4) Is the U3088FLEX approved for potable water in a commercial building?
It carries NSF/ANSI 61 and NSF 372 compliance and is approved to ASME A112.18.6-2009/CSA B125.6-200, so it is cleared for potable water distribution. NSF 372 is the low-lead requirement, which matters on institutional and multi-family potable work.
5) Do I need thread tape on the FIP end of this water heater connector?
Yes. Apply pipe thread tape to the tank nipple, thread the FIP nut on, and snug it with channel locks. The push-fit end needs nothing at all, just push it onto the pipe.
6) Will a braided stainless connector hold up on a water heater, or should I use copper flex?
The U3088FLEX has a braided stainless steel outer jacket over a DZR brass body. DZR (dezincification resistant) brass is the point here: it resists the zinc leaching that attacks ordinary brass in aggressive water, which is the usual failure on tank connections. Compared with a rigid copper flex you also get the push-fit end, so no torch work next to a new tank.
How fast can I get the SharkBite U3088FLEX12LF delivered?
Most orders ship the same day from our distribution partners, with quick delivery throughout the continental U.S. Need it urgently? Contact Us for expedited shipping options.
Can I return it if it doesn’t work for me?
Yes—ZenSupply offers a hassle-free return policy. If the product isn’t the right fit, reach out to our support team for a return authorization or setup a return by following our return instructions.
Does the SharkBite U3088FLEX12LF come with a warranty?
Absolutely. The SharkBite U3088FLEX12LF is backed by a manufacturer’s warranty. For full warranty terms, check the product documentation or Contact Us.
How do I get technical support or installation help for the SharkBite U3088FLEX12LF?
You can call, text, or email our expert support team for fast answers. We’re here to help with product selection, installation tips, and troubleshooting. Contact Us
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