“Water, water, everywhere, nor any drop to drink.” This famous quote from Samuel Taylor Coleridge’s “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner” may not directly refer to plumbing issues, but it aptly captures the frustration of homeowners who have discovered they have Kitec piping.
In this guide, we’ll explore the problems with Kitec plumbing and arm you with the knowledge you need to make informed decisions about your home’s piping.
What are the 5 problems with Kitec plumbing and how to fix them
1. Corrosion
Over time, Kitec plumbing is prone to corrosion. This can result in pipe decay, leading to leaks and restrictions in water flow.
The best solution is to replace the Kitec plumbing system entirely with more corrosion-resistant materials such as copper or PEX pipes.
2. Fitting failures
The fittings used in Kitec plumbing systems can experience failures due to design flaws or excessive stress.
These failures can cause leaks and potential water damage.
To address this problem, it is recommended to have a professional plumber inspect the fittings and replace any faulty ones.
If necessary, the entire Kitec system should be replaced with reliable fittings and pipes.
3. Reduced water pressure
Kitec pipes may develop internal scaling, which reduces water pressure within the plumbing system.
This can affect the efficiency of fixtures and appliances. To fix this problem, the plumbing system should be thoroughly flushed to remove any scaling.
If the issue persists, replacing the Kitec pipes with newer materials can restore proper water pressure.
4. Leaks
Corrosion and fitting failures in Kitec plumbing can result in leaks, potentially causing water damage to the surrounding area.
To address leaks, it is important to identify the source of the leak and repair or replace the affected components promptly.
In some cases, replacing the entire Kitec plumbing system is the most effective solution to prevent further leaks.
5. Burst pipes
Kitec pipes have the potential to burst under excessive pressure or as a result of corrosion-related weakening.
Burst pipes can cause significant water leaks and property damage. The best course of action is to shut off the water supply immediately and contact a professional plumber to assess the situation.
Replacing the Kitec pipes with more durable alternatives will help prevent future burst pipe incidents.
How can I tell if my home has Kitec plumbing?
- Check the colors and labels: Kitec plumbing is typically distinguished by its distinctive colors. Cold water pipes are bright blue, while hot water pipes are orange. Look for these colors in your plumbing system. Additionally, Kitec pipes are often labeled with ASTM 1281. Inspect your visible pipes for these labels.
- Examine exposed pipes: Look under sinks, near your hot water tank, or in your laundry room where the pipes or fittings exit the walls. If you see pipes with the words “Kitec” or “KTC” on the visible fittings, there’s a high chance that you have Kitec plumbing.
- Consult with a professional plumber: If you are unsure about the type of plumbing in your home, it’s recommended to seek the expertise of a licensed plumber. They can inspect your plumbing system, identify any Kitec components, and provide a definitive answer.
What are the alternatives to Kitec plumbing today?
- Copper pipes: Copper has been a trusted material in plumbing for many years. It is resistant to corrosion, withstands high temperatures and pressures, and has a long lifespan. Copper pipes are commonly used for both hot and cold water supply lines.
- PEX pipes: Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) pipes have gained significant popularity in recent years. They are flexible, resistant to freezing and bursting, and less prone to corrosion compared to metal pipes. PEX pipes are available in various colors for easy identification of hot and cold water lines.
- CPVC pipes: Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) pipes are a viable alternative to Kitec plumbing. CPVC pipes are resistant to corrosion, can handle high temperatures, and are cost-effective. They are commonly used in both residential and commercial applications.
- PVC pipes: Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipes are commonly used for drain, waste, and vent (DWV) systems. While not suitable for carrying hot water, PVC pipes are durable, affordable, and resistant to chemical degradation.
What should you do if you find out your home has Kitec plumbing?
- Consult with a professional plumber: Contact a licensed plumber who has experience dealing with Kitec plumbing issues. They can assess the extent of the Kitec system in your home and provide guidance on the best course of action.
- Consider replacement: In most cases, the recommended solution is to replace the entire Kitec plumbing system with a more reliable alternative such as copper or PEX pipes. This replacement should be performed by a qualified plumber to ensure proper installation and compliance with local building codes.
- Plan and budget: Discuss the replacement process with the plumber and get a cost estimate for the removal of Kitec plumbing and installation of the new system. This will help you plan and budget accordingly for the necessary repairs.
- Notify insurance and mortgage companies: Inform your insurance provider and mortgage company about the presence of Kitec plumbing in your home. Some insurers may have specific requirements or concerns regarding Kitec plumbing, and it can impact your insurance coverage and mortgage terms.
- Mitigate potential risks: In the meantime, you can take steps to mitigate potential risks associated with Kitec plumbing. Regularly monitor your plumbing for any signs of leaks or corrosion, and address them promptly. If you experience any sudden increase in water pressure or notice water discoloration, contact a plumber immediately.
How long do Kitec pipes last?
The average lifespan of Kitec plumbing is around 10 years. However, the amount of water used, the quality of the water carried, exposure to the elements, and so on, all affect the lifespan of the pipes.
Kitec was commonly used between 1995 and 2007 because of its low cost and ease of installation. The first recalls of Kitec piping occurred in 2005, which suggests that the lifespan of Kitec can be approximately 10 years.
How much does it cost to replace Kitec plumbing?
While it’s challenging to provide an exact cost without assessing the specific circumstances, the range you mentioned, between $2,500 and $4,500, can be a starting point for smaller or more straightforward installations.
Are there any class-action lawsuits related to Kitec plumbing?
There were several class action lawsuits filed in the US and Canada against IPEX Inc., the manufacturer of Kitec plumbing.
The lawsuits were over the primitive failure of the plumbing, which resulted in leaks, flooding, or damages to the structures where they were installed.
In 2012, IPEX Inc. entered into a class action lawsuit settlement of $125 million.
As part of this settlement, IPEX paid into a monetary fund that was eventually paid out to compensate homeowners and others who had Kitec installations.
The final date to submit a claim expired on January 9, 2020.
Since 2012, 4,412 homeowners in North America have filed a claim and received partial compensation for their failed Kitec plumbing.
485 Canadians have reportedly been paid $688,022.68, as of 2019.
Does home insurance cover Kitec plumbing repair and replacement?
In many cases, insurance coverage for Kitec plumbing may be limited or excluded due to the known issues and potential risks associated with this type of plumbing system.
It is crucial to review your insurance policy documentation or contact your insurance provider directly to understand the extent of coverage for Kitec plumbing.
They can provide detailed information about any exclusions, limitations, or additional endorsements that may be required to cover Kitec-related repairs or replacements.
In some instances, insurance companies may offer specific endorsements or riders that can be added to the policy to provide coverage for Kitec plumbing.
However, these endorsements may come with certain conditions, deductibles, or premium adjustments.
Is Kitec plumbing safe?
Corrosion in Kitec pipes can lead to pipe decay and subsequent leaks. Fitting failures can result in leaks and potential water damage. Reduced water pressure can occur due to internal scaling within the pipes.
Leaks from corrosion and fitting failures can cause water damage to the surrounding area. Corrosion-related weakening or excessive pressure can cause pipes to burst.
Due to these problems, Kitec plumbing is generally considered less safe compared to more reliable alternatives like copper or PEX pipes.
While not all Kitec plumbing systems experience issues, the potential for failures and the associated risks make them a concern for homeowners.
Can you just ignore Kitec plumbing?
Ignoring Kitec plumbing is not advisable due to the potential risks and problems it can present.
Kitec plumbing is known to have issues such as corrosion, fitting failures, leaks, and burst pipes.
Neglecting these problems increases the likelihood of plumbing failures, which can result in water damage, property damage, and costly repairs.
Leaks and burst pipes can lead to extensive water damage, causing structural issues, mold growth, and damage to personal belongings.
Insurance complications may also arise if necessary repairs or replacements are ignored, potentially limiting or denying coverage for water damage claims.
Furthermore, when selling your property, the presence of unaddressed Kitec plumbing can negatively impact the marketability and value of your home.
Is it necessary to replace Kitec pipes immediately?
The immediate replacement of Kitec pipes is generally recommended due to the known issues and potential risks associated with this type of plumbing system.
While the failure rate of Kitec pipes may not be high, the consequences of failures, such as water damage and costly repairs, can be significant.
Replacing Kitec pipes promptly helps mitigate the risks and ensure the safety and reliability of your plumbing system.
By replacing Kitec pipes with a more reliable alternative like copper or PEX, you can minimize the chances of leaks, bursts, and other plumbing failures.
Delaying the replacement of Kitec pipes can lead to further deterioration and increased risks over time.
The longer you wait, the higher the likelihood of experiencing plumbing issues and subsequent damage.
How can I prevent Kitec plumbing issues?
- Regular inspections: Periodically inspect your Kitec plumbing system for signs of corrosion, leaks, or fitting failures. Look for any discoloration, scaling, or unusual wear on the pipes and fittings. Early detection can help address issues before they escalate.
- Monitor water pressure: Keep an eye on the water pressure in your plumbing system. Excessive water pressure can put strain on the pipes and fittings, increasing the risk of failures. Consider installing a pressure regulator if your water pressure is consistently high.
- Avoid excessive heat exposure: Kitec plumbing can be sensitive to high temperatures. Avoid exposing the pipes to excessive heat sources, such as near hot water tanks, heaters, or direct sunlight. This can help prevent premature deterioration of the pipes and fittings.
- Prevent freezing: Protect your Kitec plumbing from freezing temperatures, as freezing can cause pipe bursts. Insulate exposed pipes in cold areas of your home, and consider running a trickle of water during extremely cold weather to prevent freezing.
Where can Kitec plumbing be found?
Kitec plumbing can be found in various areas of a residential property, including but not limited to kitchen and bathroom sink areas, hot water tanks, laundry rooms, and wherever the pipes or fittings exit the walls.
These pipes are frequently distinguishable by their distinctive colors, with bright blue denoting cold water pipes and orange denoting hot water pipes.
Kitec plumbing may have labels with markings such as “Kitec” or “KTC” on visible fittings.
Is Kitec a deal-breaker when buying a home?
Whether Kitec plumbing is a deal-breaker when buying a home depends on personal preferences and risk tolerance.
While Kitec plumbing has known issues and potential risks, some buyers may choose to proceed with the purchase if they are willing to bear the potential costs and uncertainties associated with the system.
It is advisable to have a thorough inspection of the plumbing system and consult with professionals to assess its condition and potential future expenses before making a decision.
Should you buy a house with Kitec plumbing?
The decision to buy a house with Kitec plumbing ultimately depends on your comfort level with the associated risks and potential costs.
While it is not ideal to have Kitec plumbing due to its known issues, some buyers may still consider purchasing a property with this type of plumbing if they are prepared to address the problem by replacing the system or negotiating the price accordingly.
Do you have to disclose Kitec plumbing when selling a home?
The requirement to disclose Kitec plumbing when selling a home depends on local laws and regulations, as well as specific disclosure requirements in the region.
It is generally advisable to disclose any known issues or material defects, including the presence of Kitec plumbing, to potential buyers.
By providing full and accurate information about the property, sellers can maintain transparency and avoid potential legal issues that may arise from nondisclosure.
Is Kitec plumbing the same as PEX?
Kitec plumbing and PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) are two different types of plumbing systems.
Kitec plumbing is a composite material made up of layers of metal, plastic, and resin adhesives with brass fittings.
PEX plumbing, on the other hand, is a flexible plastic piping system. While both Kitec plumbing and PEX are used for water supply lines, they have different compositions and performance characteristics.
PEX is generally considered a more reliable and widely accepted plumbing material compared to Kitec plumbing.
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