Plumbing Kitec Pipes: Essential Safety to Know

When it comes to plumbing, Kitec pipes have garnered significant attention = - mostly due to their controversial history.

Homeowners often face the challenge of understanding the different types of pipes used in their systems.

If you're a homeowner or planning a renovation, it's essential to understand the implications of Kitec pipes, their potential risks, and what you can do to ensure your home remains safe and functional.

1. What are Kitec Pipes?

2. The Plumbing Risks Associated with Kitec Pipes

3. Identifying Kitec Pipes in Your Home

4. What Should You Do If You Have Kitec Pipes?

It’s important to stay informed, take action, and protect your home from the hidden dangers of Kitec plumbing! Consult with a professional plumber to ensure that your plumbing system remains safe and efficient for years to come.

Plumbing Kitec Pipes: Essential Safety to Know

1. What Are Kitec Pipes?

Kitec pipes are a type of plumbing system that was introduced in the 1990s. Made from a combination of polyethylene and aluminum, these pipes were initially celebrated for their flexibility, lightweight design, and resistance to corrosion.

They were widely used in residential plumbing systems for hot and cold water distribution, as well as for radiant heating.

However, the popularity of Kitec pipes came to an abrupt halt when serious concerns about their durability and safety emerged.

Reports of failures and leaks began surfacing, leading to widespread scrutiny.

Kitec pipes are typically orange for hot water and blue for cold water.

2. The Risks Associated with Kitec Pipes

1. Corrosion and Degradation

One of the primary issues with Kitec pipes is their susceptibility to corrosion.

Over time, the aluminum layer within the pipes can react with water and other chemicals, leading to the formation of corrosion.

This degradation can result in leaks and, ultimately, water damage within your home.

2. Pressure and Temperature Vulnerabilities

Kitec pipes were designed to handle a certain range of pressures and temperatures. However, over time, they may not withstand the conditions they encounter in real-world applications.

As a result, they can become prone to bursting, particularly in colder climates where freezing temperatures can exacerbate the problem.

3. Legal and Financial Repercussions

Due to the issues associated with Kitec pipes, homeowners have faced significant financial burdens when dealing with leaks or failures.

In some cases, lawsuits have been filed against manufacturers, and settlements have been reached.

However, if you're a homeowner with Kitec plumbing, you may find yourself responsible for repairs and replacements, leading to unexpected expenses.

Lawsuits have been filed based on plumbing Kitec pipes.

3) Identifying Kitec Pipes in Your Home

If you're unsure whether your plumbing system includes Kitec pipes, look for these identifying features:

• Colour: Kitec pipes are typically orange for hot water and blue for cold water.

• Markings: The pipe will often have "Kitec" printed on it, along with a specification number (e.g., KSI, 1/2”, etc.).

• Fittings: Kitec systems often use unique fittings that can help you identify them. If you see fittings that look different from standard plumbing fittings, they may be Kitec.

If you suspect that your home has Kitec pipes, it’s crucial to consult with a licensed plumber who can assess your system and provide recommendations.

Here’s what Kitec pipes usually look like.

4) What Should You Do If You Have Kitec Pipes?

1. Get an Inspection

If you suspect that your home contains Kitec plumbing, the first step is to have a professional inspection.

A qualified plumber can assess the condition of your pipes and identify any signs of wear or damage.

They can also help you understand the extent of the issue and what needs to be done.

2. Consider Replacement

Given the risks associated with Kitec pipes, replacement may be the most prudent option.

While the upfront costs of replacing the plumbing system may seem daunting, it can save you from potential water damage and expensive repairs in the future.

Discuss replacement options with your plumber, including alternatives like PEX or copper piping.

3. Stay Informed

Stay up-to-date with any changes in regulations or potential recall information regarding Kitec pipes.

Knowledge is your best defence against plumbing problems.

Additionally, familiarize yourself with your local plumbing codes to ensure that any replacements or repairs meet safety standards.

4. Protect Your Home

If immediate replacement isn’t feasible, take preventative measures to protect your home from potential leaks.

Insulate any exposed pipes, especially those in colder areas, and regularly check for signs of moisture or leaks in your plumbing system.

Conclusion

Kitec pipes may have once been a popular choice in plumbing systems, but their potential risks and failures have left many homeowners in a precarious situation.

By understanding the implications of Kitec pipes, recognizing the signs of deterioration, and taking proactive steps, you can safeguard your home from water damage and costly repairs.

Stay informed, take action, and protect your home from the hidden dangers of Kitec plumbing!

WaterSmart Can Help with Plumbing, Kitec Issues

If you need your Kitec plumbing repaired or replaced in the Kitchener-Waterloo region, contact the experienced plumbers at WaterSmart.

We have a long, established reputation for providing outstanding service in the Kitchener-Waterloo, Cambridge, and Guelph regions.

After 30 years in business, our team of plumbing experts are confident they can provide the most reliable solution to your plumbing needs.

Contact us today with any problems you are experiencing and we will help solve them.

“6 Stars (if possible). Had a surprise leak in the basement - called multiple competitors for quotes ($400-$500 range). Watersmart came and saved the day! Gave me my options on the spot - Had everything fixed and working perfectly for less than HALF!!!!

I have also purchased a softener from here years ago in my previous house - if you consistently have a high water bill, or you’re forever buying salt, CHECK THESE GUYS OUT!!!! Actually amazed me how efficient their units are.

You owe it to yourself - just make the call, its easy.”

— Andrew Brimson

My Water Is Hard - Tips to Soften Water

Are you tired of dealing with stubborn residue on your dishes, dry skin after showering, or limescale buildup in your appliances? If so, it’s likely your water is hard.

Hard water contains high levels of minerals like calcium and magnesium, which can wreak havoc on your plumbing and personal comfort. In this guide, we'll discuss:

1. Understanding Hard Water and Its Impact

2. How to Deal With Hard Water

3. Different Scales of Water Filtration

Whether you're a homeowner or renter, understanding and tackling hard water issues can make a world of difference in your home's maintenance and your own well-being.

Contact the professional at WaterSmart if your water is hard and you’re not sure what to do.

1. Understanding Hard Water and Its Impact

Hard water is water that contains high levels of minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium. While it is not harmful to your health, it can cause various issues in your home and garden. Here's a closer look at how hard water can negatively impact different areas:

Garden

Hard water can affect plant growth by leaving mineral deposits on the soil and plants. These deposits can create a crust that prevents water from penetrating the soil, leading to poor plant health and stunted growth. Additionally, the minerals can interfere with the absorption of essential nutrients, further impacting the vitality of your garden.

Plumbing

Hard water can cause significant problems in your plumbing system. Over time, the minerals in hard water can build up inside pipes, reducing water flow and increasing the risk of clogs. This buildup, known as scale, can also affect appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters, reducing their efficiency and lifespan. In severe cases, the scale buildup can lead to costly repairs or replacements.

Home

In your home, hard water can leave unsightly stains on sinks, tubs, and fixtures. It can also make it more difficult to get dishes and laundry clean, as the minerals can interfere with soap and detergent effectiveness. Hard water can cause dry skin and hair, as the minerals can strip away natural oils, leading to irritation and dryness.

By understanding the negative , you can better appreciate the importance of finding effective solutions if your water is hard.

2. How to Deal with Hard Water

There are several methods to deal with hard water, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most common solutions:

Brita Filter

Using a Brita filter is a simple and convenient way to reduce the mineral content in your drinking water. These filters are designed to remove impurities and reduce the hardness of the water. While they are effective for improving the taste and quality of drinking water, they are not suitable for treating large volumes of water or addressing hard water issues in other areas of your home.

Water Softener

Installing a water softener is one of the most effective ways to deal with hard water throughout your entire home. Water softeners work by exchanging the calcium and magnesium ions in hard water with sodium ions, effectively reducing the mineral content. This solution can help prevent scale buildup in pipes and appliances, improve the efficiency of soap and detergent, and provide softer skin and hair.

Tap Filter

Tap filters are another option for addressing hard water, particularly for drinking and cooking. These filters attach directly to your faucet and use various methods, such as activated carbon or ion exchange, to reduce the mineral content in the water. Tap filters are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, but they are not suitable for treating large volumes of water or addressing hard water issues throughout your home.

Installing a water softener is one of the best solutions if your water is hard.

3. Different Scales of Water Filtration

When it comes to water filtration, there are different scales of systems to consider, each with its own pros and cons. Here are two common options:

Single Brita Filter

A single Brita filter is a portable and convenient option for improving the quality of your drinking water. These filters are designed to fit into pitchers or dispensers, and they use activated carbon and ion exchange to reduce the mineral content and remove impurities.

Pros:

• Easy to use and replace

• Affordable

• Portable

Cons:

• Limited capacity

• Only suitable for drinking water

• Requires frequent replacement

Whole-House Filtration System

A whole-house filtration system is a comprehensive solution that treats all the water entering your home. These systems typically include a water softener and additional filters to remove impurities and reduce the mineral content.

Pros:

• Provides soft water throughout your home

• Prevents scale buildup in pipes and appliances

• Improves the efficiency of soap and detergent

• Reduces skin and hair dryness

Cons:

• Expensive to install and maintain

• Requires regular maintenance and replenishment of salt

• May require professional installation

By understanding the different options for dealing with hard water, you can choose the solution that best fits your needs and budget.

Whether you opt for a simple Brita filter or a comprehensive whole-house system, addressing hard water issues can improve the quality of your water and the overall comfort of your home.

Call WaterSmart If Your Water is Hard

Since 1994, WaterSmart Systems has consistently offered its customers in the Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, Brantford, and surrounding areas innovative, quality products and excellent service.

We are a water softener and FULL plumbing service company that you can trust.

That trust extends to our products and our expertise to improve the quality of your home's water.

“I was impressed, even amazed, at how helpful and pleasant the staff at Watersmart Systems and Plumbing were in solving my water softener problems. They will be the first place I’ll go to with any water softener concerns.”

— Richard Garstin

Do I Need a Whole House Water Treatment System? Pros vs. Cons

Water is essential to every home, and its quality can significantly impact your daily life. Deciding between whole house water treatment systems or opting for individual water filters can be daunting. This guide will help you understand the differences, benefits, and drawbacks of various water treatment options.

1. How Water Gets To Your House

2. How To Treat Your Water

3. Water Treatment Systems: 3 Options

At WaterSmart, we have 30 years of experience with whole house water treatment systems, and we'd love to share our expertise with you!

1. How Water Gets to Your House

Understanding how water reaches your home is crucial to choosing the right treatment system. Here’s a brief overview:

Residential Plumbing Basics

Water typically comes to your home through a municipal supply or a private well.

Municipal water is treated to meet safety standards, but it may still contain contaminants.

Well water is untreated and can vary in quality depending on local conditions.

Hard vs. Soft Water

Water hardness refers to the amount of dissolved minerals, mainly calcium and magnesium, present in the water.

Hard Water: Common in many regions, hard water can cause scale buildup in pipes and appliances, reduce soap effectiveness, and leave spots on dishes and fixtures.

Soft Water: Contains fewer minerals and is gentler on plumbing and appliances. However, soft water may taste different and lack essential minerals.

Water typically comes to your home through a municipal supply or a private well.

2. How to Treat Your Water

Several solutions are available to address water quality issues, each with its specific use case and benefits.

Water Softeners

Water softeners replace calcium and magnesium ions in hard water with sodium or potassium ions, effectively reducing hardness.

• Pros: Prevents scale buildup, extends the life of plumbing and appliances, and improves soap and detergent effectiveness.

• Cons: Can add sodium to water, requires maintenance and salt replenishment, and may not remove other contaminants.

Brita Filters

Brita filters are popular for their convenience and effectiveness in removing common contaminants like chlorine, lead, and certain particulates.

• Pros: Easy to use, improves taste and odour, relatively inexpensive.

• Cons: Only treats water at the point of use, limited capacity, requires regular filter replacements.

Avoiding or Cleaning Mineral Buildup

Regular maintenance and cleaning can help mitigate the effects of hard water without installing a treatment system.

• Pros: Cost-effective, simple to implement.

• Cons: Labor-intensive, less effective in the long term, doesn’t improve water quality.

Choosing the right water treatment solution depends on your specific needs, water quality, and budget.

3. Water Treatment Systems: 3 Options

When considering whole house water treatment systems, you have several options, each with its pros and cons.

Whole House Water Treatment System

A comprehensive solution that treats all the water entering your home, ensuring consistent quality throughout.

• Pros: Treats water for the entire house, protects plumbing and appliances, improves overall water quality, and reduces contaminants.

• Cons: High initial cost, requires professional installation, regular maintenance needed.

Under-Sink Water Filters

These filters are installed under individual sinks to treat water at specific points of use, such as kitchen or bathroom sinks.

• Pros: Targeted treatment, relatively easy to install, and affordable.

• Cons: Only treats water at specific locations, requires multiple units for whole house coverage, regular filter replacement needed.

Faucet-Mounted Filters

Faucet-mounted filters attach directly to the faucet, providing treated water on demand.

• Pros: Easy to install, portable, and affordable.

• Cons: Limited capacity, may not fit all faucets, and regular filter replacement needed.

Conclusion

Choosing the right water treatment solution depends on your specific needs, water quality, and budget.

Whole house water treatment systems offer comprehensive benefits but comes with higher costs and maintenance requirements.

Under-sink and faucet-mounted filters provide targeted treatment at a lower cost but may not address all water quality issues.

Understanding the pros and cons of each option will help you make an informed decision for your home’s water treatment needs.

For more information, you can refer to these pages: Consumer Reports and Better Homes & Gardens.

Whole House Water Treatment Systems

Since 1994, WaterSmart Systems has consistently offered its customers in the Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, Brantford, and surrounding areas innovative, quality products and excellent service.

We are a water softener and FULL plumbing service company that you can trust.

That trust extends to our products and our expertise to improve the quality of your home's water.

“These guys deserve more stars , efficient, polite, on time, their price was a value. Cannot say enough of the easy and professional going communication from Greg and the plumber ... Highly recommended!”

— Harry Young

How to Purify Your Water at Home

There are numerous ways to purify your water right in your own home, ensuring every sip is clean, refreshing, and free from impurities. Here's a comprehensive guide on how to purify water at home using various methods:

1. Basic Filters for Tap Water

2. In-Fridge Jug-Style Filters

3. Larger Brita Filters (Under-Sink or Countertop)

4. Refillable Water Bottles

5. Reverse Osmosis

5. Further Reading and Resources

Whether you're looking for a convenient solution for your fridge or considering a comprehensive purification system, WaterSmart has got you covered. Contact us today.

How to Purify Your Water at Home

Water is the essence of life, a vital component that sustains us every day. But what happens when the water flowing from our taps isn't as pure as we'd like?

From subtle odours to unseen contaminants, the quality of our drinking water can be a concern. Let's embark on a journey to discover how to transform ordinary tap water into a pristine source of hydration and wellness.

1. Basic Filters for Tap Water

• Types: You can start with basic faucet-mounted filters like those from brands such as PUR or Brita. These filters attach directly to your faucet and can remove common contaminants like chlorine, lead, and sediment.

• Installation: Installation is typically straightforward and requires no tools. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for proper setup.

• Maintenance: Replace the filter cartridge as recommended by the manufacturer, usually every 2-3 months or as needed based on usage and water quality.

Purify your water right at the tap.

2. In-Fridge Jug-Style Filters

• Usage: Brita pitchers with replaceable filters are popular for their convenience and effectiveness in improving the taste and odour of tap water.

• Process: Fill the jug with tap water, and let it pass through the filter into the lower reservoir. The filter removes impurities as water flows through.

• Filter Replacement: Replace the Brita filter according to the manufacturer's instructions, usually every 40 gallons or 2 months.

Get a Brita pitcher and keep it cold in the fridge.

3. Larger Brita Filters (Under-Sink or Countertop)

• Installation: Brita also offers larger filtration systems that can be installed under the sink or on the countertop. These systems provide filtered water directly from a separate faucet.

• Advantages: They offer enhanced filtration capacity and are suitable for households with higher water consumption.

• Maintenance: Follow the recommended filter replacement schedule for optimal performance.

Purify your water with a countertop system.

4. Refillable Water Bottles

• Purpose: These tanks are often used in areas where municipal water quality is a concern. You can purchase water from trusted sources and store it in these tanks for drinking and cooking.

• Considerations: Ensure the tank is regularly cleaned and sanitized to prevent bacterial growth. Use a filtration system if necessary for additional purification.

If you love the taste of bottled water but want to be more environmentally conscious, you could start using more economical and refillable large bottles.

At WaterSmart, we’ve been providing water bottle refill station service to our customers in the Kitchener-Waterloo area since 1994. We provide BPA-free 18L bottles.

We make sure you get the same excellent customer service and high-quality drinking water that we've been offering all of our customers for almost 30 years.

Did you know it takes manufacturers up to 3 litres of water to make 1 litre of bottled water?

5. Reverse Osmosis (RO) Water Purification

• Process: Reverse osmosis is a highly effective water purification method that uses a semipermeable membrane to remove contaminants from water. It works by applying pressure to push water molecules through the membrane, leaving behind impurities.

• Contaminant Removal: RO systems can remove a wide range of contaminants, including heavy metals, dissolved solids, bacteria, and chemicals, resulting in exceptionally clean and pure water.

• Installation: RO systems typically consist of multiple stages, including pre-filters for sediment and carbon filtration, the RO membrane, and post-filters for final polishing. They can be installed under the sink or as standalone units.

• Maintenance: Regular maintenance involves replacing pre-filters, the RO membrane, and post-filters according to the manufacturer's recommendations to ensure optimal performance.

• Benefits: RO water is often considered one of the purest forms of drinking water, making it ideal for households concerned about water quality and taste.

• Considerations: While RO systems are highly effective, they may also remove beneficial minerals from water. Some models include remineralization stages to address this concern.

• Resources: Explore Watersmart's range of reverse osmosis systems to find a solution that meets your water purification needs. Link to Watersmart's RO systems page.

Incorporating an RO system into your home can elevate your water quality to new heights.

Reverse osmosis offers a comprehensive approach to water purification, delivering crisp, clean water that's perfect for drinking, cooking, and more.

6. Further Reading and Resources:

• Water Softeners: Learn about water softening systems and their benefits for improving water quality and extending appliance lifespan.

• Local Water Hardness Tips: Understand your local water hardness levels and how they can affect your choice of water purification methods.

• How effective are Brita filters?

By following these steps and choosing the right water purification method based on your needs and water quality, you can enjoy clean and safe drinking water at home.

We Can Help Purify Your Water

We've been providing water services to our customers in the Kitchener-Waterloo area since 1994.

If you need reverse osmosis or any other water system in the Kitchener-Waterloo region, you can trust WaterSmart.

We would be happy to help at a reasonable rate, and we even have financing options if you need a new unit.

Our expert, experienced plumbers will install your new water softener efficiently and at a price that you can afford.

If you purchase a water softener from us, your installation is free!

CONTACT WATERSMART TODAY FOR A FREE QUOTE.

LOCATION:

14-105 Lexington Road, Waterloo, Ontario N2J 4R7
Phone: 519-886-7331

“I went in today for the first time to refill 6 jugs for my work. The person who helped me was just so nice, and even carried 5 of the jugs back to my car for me!
”

— Satisfied customer

3 of the Best Water Softeners You Can Buy Right Now

Are you tired of dealing with hard water issues at home? From scale buildup on faucets to dry skin and dull laundry, hard water can cause a myriad of problems. But fear not!

We've curated a list of the best water softeners available right now to help you make an informed decision and enjoy the benefits of soft, clean water in your home.

1. Econo Series Water Softener

2. Smart Series Water Softener

3. Tahoe Series Water Softener

WaterSmart is a family-run business that has been in business for 30 years! We pride ourselves on providing great quality work and products at great prices. To learn more about us click here. 

3 of the Best Water Softeners You Can Buy Right Now

1. ECONO SERIES WATER SOFTENER

The Econo Series is your economical solution for water softening in your home! This water softener comes with a 5-year parts warranty and a 1-year labour warranty.

• 30,000-grain water softener

• Regenerates on demand - based on water usage

• Solid-state programmable computer

• Fully adjustable regeneration cycle times

• Capacitor backup with two hour power carryover

• 12-volt transformer

• Full one-inch diameter riser tube

• Pol-E-Wound fibreglass resin tanks provide superior strength - do not deteriorate, rust or corrode

• Stylish twin tank system in matching black colours

• Warranty: 5 Year parts, 1 Year Labour

• Includes installation, by-pass valve and a 20kg bag of salt

2. SMART SERIES WATER SOFTENER

The Smart Series water softener is compact in design but big on performance! It comes with a 5-year part and labour warranty.

• 30,000 or 45,000-grain water softener

• 'Look ahead' feature to maximize regeneration efficiency

• Countercurrent (up-flow) regeneration - Uses 45% less water (compared to Econo)

• Uses less than $2.00 worth of hydro annually

• Dry brine tank technology for increased salt savings

• Compact space-saver design - same size or smaller than most cabinet designs

• Noise cancelling silencer on the valve - reduces noise by up to 50% as compared to other softeners

• Fully adjustable regeneration cycle times

• Capacitor backup with two-hour power carryover

• 12-volt transformer

• Full one-inch diameter riser tube

• Pol-E-Wound fibreglass resin tanks provide superior strength - do not deteriorate, rust or corrode

• Stylish twin tank system in matching black colours

• Sweat jacket on resin tank

• Warranty: 5 Year parts, 5 Year Labour

• Includes installation, bypass valve and a 20kg bag of salt

3. TAHOE SERIES WATER SOFTENER

The Tahoe Series water softener features a rugged design with functionality in mind. It comes with a 7-year parts warranty and 5-year labour warranty.

• 30,000 or 45,000-grain system

• Uses less than $2 worth of hydro annually

• Backlit board which allows for easier visibility in dark spaces. 

• Colour changes when in normal operation/cycles & fault modes

• Proportional brine feature- reduced salt usage

• Tahoe settings are saved in memory as long as the battery lasts

• ‘Look ahead’ feature to maximize regeneration efficiency

• Compact space-saver design – same size or smaller than most cabinet designs

• Dry brine technology for salt savings

• Countercurrent (up-flow) regeneration

• Noise cancelling silencer on the valve – reduces noise by up to 50%

• Safety float brine valve that prevents salt tank overflows

• Fully programmable regeneration times

• Condensation prevention sweat jacket

• Stylish twin black tanks

• Optional ozone generator + brine recovery system

• Warranty: 7 Year parts, 5 Year Labour

• Optional bypass valve included

Get The Best Water Softeners From WaterSmart!

Every water softener we offer is made in Canada.

Basic installation is FREE with the purchase of any new WaterSmart water softener!

And with our financing option, you can easily purchase a water softener, Canada wide.

To find the ideal water softener for your home, use our water softener calculator. Here are our top resources you can check out to learn more:

1. Water Softener Cost: Installation, Purchase & Rental Fees, and More

2. Water Softener Rentals: Is Renting Or Owning Right For Me?

3. 8 Water Softener Benefits For You & Your Home

4. How Do I Know if There Is Hard Water In My Area?

5. Water Softener Services, Repairs, Installations and More

The above resources will help you learn more about water softener costs, installation, benefits, and more.

Contact WaterSmart today for a free quote.

“I was impressed, even amazed, at how helpful and pleasant the staff at Watersmart Systems and Plumbing were in solving my water softener problems. They will be the first place I’ll go to with any water softener concerns. ”

— Richard