Not all types of plumbing are created equal. If you’ve got Kitec pipes in your home, you may be at higher risk of flooding, water damage, and other plumbing-related issues. Keep reading to learn more about why Kitec pipes are so vulnerable to failure and which signs you should look out for to keep your home safe.

What is Kitec Plumbing?

Kitec plumbing is a type of plumbing system that was used in many Ontario homes constructed between 1995 and 2007. Each pipe in this system has three layers: an inner and outer plastic shell and an aluminum layer between the two.The pipe segments are connected by brass fittings. The outer plastic layer of each pipe was also coloured either blue or orange to help homeowners easily identify the temperature of the water inside.

Kitec pipes were engineered to be durable and long-lasting, combining the best parts of plastic and metal piping to create a modern solution that could become the new industry standard. Unfortunately, things didn’t work out that way.

What Went Wrong?

All pipes degrade over time and will eventually need to be replaced. However, Kitec pipes are likely to fail much sooner than pipes made of other materials. Their brass fittings and aluminum interior are highly susceptible to corrosion, a major issue that weakens these components and eventually leads to leaks.

So many homeowners with Kitec pipes have encountered this problem that a $125 million class action lawsuit was successfully launched against manufacturer IPEX in 2011. You can no longer submit claims to this lawsuit, but its existence proves that these pipes deserve their bad reputation.

Warning Signs

There are three main things to watch for when monitoring your Kitec pipes:

• Corrosion. Look for discolored areas and build-up on your pipe fittings, especially at the junctures where they connect to the rest of the system.
• Leaks. Look for damp spots on or around your pipes. You might notice water damage on your walls, ceilings, or floors. You might also see an unexplained increase in your monthly water bill.
• Low water pressure. Water pressure problems may indicate a leak or blockage inside your pipes. Take note of any dips in water pressure inside your home. You’re most likely to notice this in the shower, but it may also affect things like your sinks and toilet.

Replace Your Kitec Pipes Today

Whether you’ve spotted signs of damage or just want to upgrade to something more long-lasting, it’s always a good idea to get Kitec pipes replaced. Syles Mechanical will help you remove these ticking time bombs from your home and install a more reliable system in their place. Contact us today to get the process started.