Kitec fittings contained very high levels of zinc, which reacted with the chemical composition of Kitec and leached minerals into the pipe. This caused the fittings to degrade quickly and a build up of zinc oxide that restricted the flow of water.
Is kitec plumbing still used?
About Kitec Piping
It 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.
Is kitec the same as PEX?
Is kitec plumbing the same as PEX? PEX is an abbreviation of cross-linked polyethylene, a type of plastic often used to make pipes. Kitec plumbing is made from layers of aluminum and PEX sandwiched together, but there are other forms of PEX plumbing that are perfectly acceptable for modern homes.
When was kitec plumbing discontinued?
KITEC ceased being sold in 2007. The last buildings in which it was installed are nearing a decade in age.
What colour is kitec plumbing?
Kitec plumbing is quite distinctive looking so it is easy to tell it apart from other types of piping. The cold water pipes are bright blue in colour and the hot water pipes are orange.
What do kitec pipes look like?
What does it look like? Kitec Hot water and radiant heat lines will be orange/red piping and cold lines will be blue. Sometimes the pipes will even have Kitec printed on the pipes.
How can you tell if you have Kitec plumbing?
How do I know if there is Kitec in my home? Kitec pipe was manufactured in two colors: blue for cold water and orange for hot water. The side of the pipe is typically marked “IPEX” and the fittings, stamped “Kitec”, may be recognized by looking at the pipe and fittings.
When was kitec used in Canada?
One recent plumbing innovation, known as “Kitec Plumbing”, was introduced in Canada in 1995, and was used until 2007. “Kitec” was the most common brand it was sold under, but the following brands were also used: AmbioComfort.
Who made polybutylene pipes?
Three major companies developed and produced polybutylene pipes: Vanguard, Qest and Shell Oil. The pipes were marketed as “the pipe of the future” because they were strong, versatile and resisted cold temperatures.
Can you use SharkBite fittings on kitec?
No other fittings are compatible with KITEC piping. Push fit fittings (SharkBite) do not fit KITEC piping.
What can I substitute for kitec?
The only long-term solution for those with Kitec plumbing is to have it replaced with copper pipes.
Is PEX pipe good for drinking water?
The study showed: There are no health risks associated with drinking water from PEX pipes. A few types of PEX-pipe may cause prolonged undesirable taste and odour if the water remains in pipes over time.
Is kitec a deal breaker?
Kitec Plumbing has quickly been pushed into the “trigger word” category in real estate, having the potential to be a deal breaker. Current list of trigger words include: UFFI, Fuses, Aluminum wiring, Knob & Tube wiring, asbestos, lead or galvanized pipes and mould.
