The Future of Plumbing is Lead-Free:
Explore KE KELIT’s Lead-Free Piping Solutions
In 2022, after a positive consultation process, MBIE amended the New Zealand Building Code to limit the maximum lead content in products containing copper alloys. Initially, the transition period was set to end on September 1st, 2025, but has since been extended to May 1st, 2026, aligning with Australia’s transition deadline.
With KE KELIT, the good news is you don’t need to wait until May 2026 to transition to lead-free systems. We already offer a range of piping solutions that are 100% lead-free, including our STEELOX Multilayer, STEELFIX Stainless Steel, and KELOX Multilayer systems.
Why is Lead-Free Important?
Lead in plumbing products can leach into drinking water, posing a health risk. Recently, Horowhenua District issued a 'do not drink' notice after routine testing revealed elevated lead levels in the water supply. While this notice has since been lifted, it highlighted the issue of plumbosolvency—when water reacts with older tapware, leading to lead contamination.
Lead is a toxic metal that is easily absorbed into the human body. It is particularly harmful to the brain and nervous system, with children being especially vulnerable as their bodies are still developing. Reducing lead in plumbing products is a crucial step toward protecting public health, and the industry has welcomed these changes to the Building Code.
What Does 'Lead-Free' Mean?
Historically, lead was commonly used in plumbing products such as pipes, valves, and fittings due to its durability and malleability. However, due to its many health risks, MBIE sought industry feedback and subsequently introduced changes to the Building Code, limiting the lead content in copper-alloy products to 0.25%.
This update was included in the 2022 Building Code revision, with an extended transition period to May 1st, 2026, to give manufacturers and suppliers time to adjust their stock and products. After this date, any product containing copper alloys and intended for use with potable water must have a weighted average lead content of no more than 0.25%, verified by a test report from a facility accredited by IANZ or an equivalent authority, in accordance with NSF/ANSI/CAN 372.
KE KELIT’s Lead-Free Solutions Are Available Now!
At KE KELIT we are proud to offer 100% lead-free piping systems that deliver uncontaminated water to your taps. Our piping systems STEELFIX Stainless Steel, STEELOX Multilayer and KELOX Multilayer are ideal for potable water applications.
STEELOX, in particular, is a first-of-its-kind flexible stainless steel piping system.
Check the systems out below and request lead-free piping systems for your new home or upcoming project.
STEELOX
Experience effortless water control with STEELOX, a powerful fusion of our KELOX and STEELFIX.
KELOX
Flexibility meets versatility with the KELOX multi-layer system, a modular solution trusted for decades.
STEELFIX
STEELFIX stainless steel offers easy installation, creating a robust pipe system for nearly any use.
References
Building Performance: Outcome of consultation Building Code update 2022 Lead in plumbing products
Master Plumbers: Plumbing Products, Shed the Lead
One News: Tokomaru water supply declared safe to drink
One News: 'Do not drink': Elevated lead levels found in North Island town's water supply