{"product_id":"sharkbite-1-2-in-x-3-4-in-fip-stainless-steel-braided-flexible-water-heater-connector-with-ball-valve-18-in-length","title":"GE SharkBite 1\/2 in. x 3\/4 in. FIP Stainless Steel Braided Flexible Water Heater Connector with Ball Valve (18 in. Length) - U3068FLEX18BVLF","description":"\u003ch2\u003eGE SharkBite 1\/2 in. x 3\/4 in. FIP Stainless Steel Braided Flexible Water Heater Connector with Ball Valve (18 in. Length) - U3068FLEX18BVLF\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\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:7ef5e4f0-cb65-490f-a640-0faf7b5c1722-9\" data-testid=\"conversation-turn-18\" 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=\"79f435a0-6f49-4b21-8fda-21027820f1fa\" 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\u003cul data-start=\"27\" data-end=\"1729\"\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"unaysu\" data-start=\"27\" data-end=\"261\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"29\" data-end=\"71\"\u003eIntegrated shutoff + connector design:\u003c\/strong\u003e Built-in ball valve lets you quickly isolate the water heater without extra fittings—ideal for maintenance, repairs, or emergency shutoff situations. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"x0kbz4\" data-start=\"263\" data-end=\"462\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"265\" data-end=\"298\"\u003eFast, tool-free installation:\u003c\/strong\u003e Push-to-connect inlet eliminates soldering and threading, making installs faster and more reliable in tight utility spaces. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"10cc331\" data-start=\"464\" data-end=\"685\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"466\" data-end=\"517\"\u003eFlexible 18-inch braided stainless steel build:\u003c\/strong\u003e Braided hose absorbs vibration and helps manage misalignment between rigid pipe runs, reducing stress on connections over time. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1jdqn3e\" data-start=\"687\" data-end=\"877\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"689\" data-end=\"726\"\u003eUniversal plumbing compatibility:\u003c\/strong\u003e Works with copper, PEX, CPVC, PE-RT, and HDPE systems—supporting both retrofit upgrades and new installations. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"8qwfu6\" data-start=\"879\" data-end=\"1116\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"881\" data-end=\"923\"\u003eDurable, professional-grade materials:\u003c\/strong\u003e Lead-free brass fittings combined with stainless steel braiding provide strong corrosion resistance and long-term reliability in hot water applications. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"11z2uto\" data-start=\"1118\" data-end=\"1333\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"1120\" data-end=\"1149\"\u003eHigh-performance ratings:\u003c\/strong\u003e Engineered for residential water heater conditions (up to ~200 PSI and 180°F), ensuring safe, consistent operation under daily thermal cycling. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"n7v5kl\" data-start=\"1335\" data-end=\"1528\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"1337\" data-end=\"1371\"\u003eWet-line installation capable:\u003c\/strong\u003e Can be installed and pressure-tested immediately on active lines, reducing downtime during replacements or upgrades. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"kqlnf1\" data-start=\"1530\" data-end=\"1729\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"1532\" data-end=\"1575\"\u003eInstaller-preferred efficiency upgrade:\u003c\/strong\u003e Combines valve + connector in one unit, reducing parts count and simplifying overall water heater plumbing layouts. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\n\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\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\u003eQ\u0026amp;A\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"flex max-w-full flex-col gap-4 grow\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv data-message-author-role=\"assistant\" data-message-id=\"8f64fe7b-bb61-417b-b70b-f3c4f663d25b\" 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=\"157\" data-end=\"430\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"157\" data-end=\"211\"\u003eQ: What is the SharkBite U3068FLEX18BVLF used for?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"211\" data-end=\"214\"\u003eA: It is used to connect a water heater to hot and cold supply lines while providing an integrated shut-off ball valve for easy water control during maintenance or emergencies. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"432\" data-end=\"703\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"432\" data-end=\"483\"\u003eQ: What are the key features of this connector?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"483\" data-end=\"486\"\u003eA: It includes a 1\/2\" push-to-connect inlet, 3\/4\" FIP outlet, 18-inch stainless steel braided flexible hose, and a built-in lead-free brass ball valve for durability and safety. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"705\" data-end=\"937\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"705\" data-end=\"759\"\u003eQ: Does it require special tools for installation?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"759\" data-end=\"762\"\u003eA: No, it uses push-to-connect technology, so it installs without soldering, crimping, or glue, making installation fast and tool-free. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"939\" data-end=\"1134\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"939\" data-end=\"984\"\u003eQ: What pipe types is it compatible with?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"984\" data-end=\"987\"\u003eA: It works with PEX, copper, CPVC, PE-RT, and HDPE SDR-9 piping systems for flexible installation options. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1136\" data-end=\"1318\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1136\" data-end=\"1176\"\u003eQ: Can it be installed on wet lines?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1176\" data-end=\"1179\"\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=\"1320\" data-end=\"1549\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1320\" data-end=\"1371\"\u003eQ: What is the pressure and temperature rating?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1371\" data-end=\"1374\"\u003eA: It is rated up to 200 PSI and typically around 140–180°F depending on application standards, suitable for residential water heaters. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1551\" data-end=\"1754\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1551\" data-end=\"1616\"\u003eQ: What is the benefit of the braided stainless steel design?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1616\" data-end=\"1619\"\u003eA: The braided hose provides flexibility for tight spaces while maintaining strength and reducing stress on connections and fittings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1756\" data-end=\"1965\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1756\" data-end=\"1802\"\u003eQ: What does the integrated ball valve do?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"1802\" data-end=\"1805\"\u003eA: It allows instant shut-off at the water heater, making servicing, replacement, or emergency shutoff faster and safer. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"1967\" data-end=\"2137\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"1967\" data-end=\"2012\"\u003eQ: Is it safe for drinking water systems?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"2012\" data-end=\"2015\"\u003eA: Yes, it uses lead-free brass components and is certified for potable water use. \u003cspan class=\"\" data-state=\"closed\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp data-start=\"2139\" data-end=\"2383\"\u003e\u003cstrong data-start=\"2139\" data-end=\"2191\"\u003eQ: Why choose the SharkBite Max U3068FLEX18BVLF?\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr data-start=\"2191\" data-end=\"2194\"\u003eA: It combines fast push-fit installation, built-in shut-off control, and flexible braided construction, making it a reliable and time-saving solution for modern water heater installations.\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\n\u003cdiv class=\"text-center\"\u003e\n\u003cdiv\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"inline-flex border border-gray-100 dark:border-gray-700 rounded-xl\"\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch5\u003eMaintenance Tips\u003c\/h5\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"pztcio\" data-start=\"148\" data-end=\"252\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"150\" data-end=\"174\"\u003eRegular Leak Checks:\u003c\/strong\u003e Inspect both ends and valve area for drips, corrosion, or moisture buildup.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"ja5thq\" data-start=\"253\" data-end=\"373\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"255\" data-end=\"283\"\u003eExercise the Ball Valve:\u003c\/strong\u003e Turn it on\/off every 2–3 months to prevent sticking and ensure quick emergency shutoff.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"m6wfat\" data-start=\"374\" data-end=\"481\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"376\" data-end=\"398\"\u003eAvoid Line Stress:\u003c\/strong\u003e Keep the braided stainless steel hose free of sharp bends, twisting, or tension.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"rdmk7c\" data-start=\"482\" data-end=\"587\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"484\" data-end=\"509\"\u003eCheck Braided Jacket:\u003c\/strong\u003e Look for fraying, rust spots, or bulging that could indicate internal wear.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1t1jlo6\" data-start=\"588\" data-end=\"712\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"590\" data-end=\"613\"\u003eSecure Connections:\u003c\/strong\u003e Ensure push-fit and FIP fittings remain tight, especially after temperature or pressure changes.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"14zurg5\" data-start=\"713\" data-end=\"815\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"715\" data-end=\"738\"\u003eFlush Water Heater:\u003c\/strong\u003e Helps reduce sediment that can strain seals and reduce connector lifespan.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"1jd3ep9\" data-start=\"816\" data-end=\"914\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"818\" data-end=\"845\"\u003eMonitor Water Pressure:\u003c\/strong\u003e Stay within rated limits to avoid premature valve or hose failure.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli data-section-id=\"670yos\" data-start=\"915\" data-end=\"1031\"\u003e\n\u003cstrong data-start=\"917\" data-end=\"937\"\u003eReplace if Worn:\u003c\/strong\u003e Any leaks, stiffness in the valve, or visible damage means immediate replacement is needed.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e","brand":"GE","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":45607293255871,"sku":"Item # 12231740 | Model # U3068FLEX18BVLF","price":9800.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0683\/5703\/0079\/files\/image_23cb916f-a8d9-49ac-bd84-91f9a0d6ed32.jpg?v=1777874969","url":"https:\/\/backyardprovider.com\/products\/sharkbite-1-2-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"}