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Quest piping, also known as polybutylene piping, was once a popular material for residential plumbing in the United States during the 1970s to the mid-1990s. However, it fell out of favor due to a series of problems associated with its use. Here are some of the common issues with Quest piping:

Susceptibility to Brittle and Cracking:

Quest piping is known to become brittle and prone to cracking over time. Exposure to certain water disinfectants and oxidative agents in water can accelerate this process.

Leakage and Breakage:
The brittleness of Quest piping can lead to leaks and, in some cases, complete breakage. This can result in water damage to the property.

Fittings Issues:
Quest piping often used acetal plastic fittings. These fittings were prone to breaking, especially when under stress, leading to leaks and failures.

Corrosion and Scaling:
While polybutylene itself is not prone to corrosion, the metal fittings used in conjunction with Quest piping can corrode. Corrosion can lead to leaks and reduced water flow.

Class Action Lawsuits:
The issues with Quest piping led to numerous class-action lawsuits against the manufacturers. Many homeowners filed claims for damages related to leaks and plumbing failures.

Reduced Property Value:
Homes with Quest piping may face challenges in the real estate market due to the known issues associated with this type of plumbing. Prospective buyers may be concerned about the potential for plumbing problems.

Complete Replacement:
One of the most common solutions for Quest piping problems is to replace it entirely with more reliable materials, such as copper or PEX (cross-linked polyethylene).

Regular Inspections:
If replacement is not immediately feasible, regular inspections can help detect issues early on. Prompt repairs may extend the life of the system temporarily.

Legal Remedies:
Some homeowners affected by Quest piping issues sought legal remedies through class-action lawsuits against the manufacturers. However, these cases have generally been settled.

If you suspect or know that your home has Quest piping, it's advisable to consult with a licensed plumber to assess the condition of the plumbing system and discuss potential replacement options based on the specific issues present in your plumbing.