I'm going to be replacing two shower valves. And I'm thinking that instead of paying someone to come sweat in the new ones with copper I could use sharkbite fittings to connect pex to the existing copper lines and set it all my self. Does anyone have experience with sharkbite and are they reliable?

yes, have experience

not reliable for use in concealed space - in many jurisdictions NOT code compliant


instead of looking for 'the easiest way possible' why not seek out 'the best I can afford'


peace of mind, priceless

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"Measure Twice & Cut Once" - Retired U.A. Local 1 & 638

if you are using pex, why not purchase a side pinch tool and some fitting and side pinch rings? you can alwaysm use the tool in the future for more work around the house.
sharkbite fittings are expensive and would probably cost as much as an inexpensive tool and some fittings.

alot of guys use em but i am not a fan, also i don't think i would trust one in my wall.

If you want to sleep at night, I would refrain from using Shark Bites concealed in a wall.

I would say if you have an access panel go for it.we've used them since 2005???.including underground on 180 degree heating pipes not a single leak...just do what the directions say and you'll be alright....