WHAT IS IT?

A type of plastic water supply pipe sold by IPEX between 1995 – 2007 was installed in many new houses around that time.     As it turns out, many brass connection fittings on this pipe have been found to be defective, causing leaks and damages.

The piping is made of an aluminum liner for strength, sandwiched between 2 layers of PEX (Polyethylene cross linked).   The defective fittings had too much zinc, causing dezincification corrosion which deposits zinc oxide in the piping.   The corrosion degrades the fittings and the deposits create blockages, which can cause the pipe to burst.

CHECK FOR IT

KITEC piping

Check your water piping, typically visible in the basement above the water heater, and look for the characteristic orange hot water pipe and blue cold pipe. Note, there are many types of plastic piping now being installed in houses, with various colours and labels, so you also need to check the lettering on the pipe and fittings.

Kitec pipe is usually marked with one of the following brand names; Kitec, PlumbBetter, IPEX AQUA, WarmRite, Kitec XPA, AmbioComfort, XPA, KERR Controls or Plomberie Améliorée. The terms CSA B137.9/10 or ATSM F1974 could also indicate that you have a Kitec system. Look for the words Kitec or KTC on the metal fittings where the pipes are joined.  You may also see corrosion (ie. a white deposit)  on the fittings.   If you find one of these tell tale labels, call a plumber experienced in evaluating Kitec systems for an expert assessment.

If you have defective Kitec fittings, you can take your chances and hope it doesn’t leak or you can replace the piping system with copper or other recommended piping.   If you choose to keep the Kitec piping, it’s a good idea to register in the class action lawsuit, because if you have damages, then you can make a claim.

See the information at  www.kitecsettlement.com