How to identify polybutylene plumbing
Polybutylene plumbing in homes has proven to be problematic with many thousands of cases of reported leaks and a class action lawsuit. In Tucson, AZ PB pipes were prevalent in new homes constructed from about 1982 to 1996. Many homeowners are concerned about PB piping and want to replace it if they have it in their homes. There are several ways to identify if a home has PB plumbing:
* Climb up in the attic and see if there are light gray plastic pipes running. If you see them, then it’s most likely PB.
* If you have a voltmeter and know how to use it, run a continuity check between the valve under a bathroom or kitchen sink and the ground on a nearby receptacle. If there is none, then it’s likely PB piping.
* Look at the electrical panel and see if there is a warning saying something like “structure contains non metallic water piping, do not bond”. If that’s the case then the house probably has PB plumbing.
* Cut a small hole in the drywall behind the fridge where the ice-maker water valve is, if you see gray plastic piping, then its likely PB.
* Look at your home purchase info in the disclosure section. In Tucson, home inspectors identify PB plumbing when a home is sold.
If any of the above tests come back as positive, call a plumber next to confirm that there is polybutylene.