A GI tee pipe fitting connects three galvanized pipes in a T shape. It lets one line feed two outlets, or two lines feed one.
Because it screws onto the pipe, it needs no welding. Therefore, it is quick to fit on site and easy to replace later.
What is a GI tee pipe fitting?
A GI tee is a T-shaped galvanized iron fitting with three female threaded openings. It splits one pipe run into two, or joins two flows into one.
An equal tee has all three openings the same size, while a reducing tee has a smaller branch. Because the branch leaves at 90 degrees, tees are the standard way to take a branch line off a main in threaded GI plumbing.
Further reading
- How hot-dip galvanization protects steel (Wikipedia)
- British Standard Pipe (BSP) thread explained (Wikipedia)
- Types of piping and plumbing fittings (Wikipedia)
Key terms explained
- Galvanized iron (GI)
- Iron or steel coated with a layer of zinc. The zinc corrodes first, so it protects the metal underneath from rust.
- BSP thread
- British Standard Pipe thread, the common pipe thread in Kenya. Tapered BSP threads (BSPT, ISO 7-1) tighten into a seal as you screw them together.
- Nominal size
- The trade size of a pipe or fitting, such as 1/2 inch. It names the pipe size, so it is not an exact measurement of the outside diameter.
- Thread sealant
- PTFE tape, hemp with jointing paste, or an anaerobic sealant applied to male threads. It fills tiny gaps so the joint does not leak.
- Branch
- The side outlet of a tee. It leaves the main run at 90 degrees.
- Equal tee
- A tee with all three openings the same size.
Features and benefits
- Three female BSP taper threads in one galvanized body.
- Equal outlets, so any end can serve as the branch.
- Zinc coating that slows rust in water service.
- Screwed joints that need only pipe wrenches and sealant.
- Sizes to match standard GI pipe.
Technical specifications
| Product | GI tee pipe fitting |
|---|---|
| Sizes | 1/2, 3/4, 1, 1 1/4 and 2 inch |
| Material | Galvanized (zinc-coated) iron |
| Joint type | Screwed, female BSP taper thread |
| Shape | T, branch at 90 degrees |
| Supplier | Sparks Plumbing Experts Ltd, Nairobi |
Each size has its own page with sizing details. Choose a size above, then request a quote.
Applications of a GI tee pipe fitting
- Fixture branch lines. Takes branches off a main to feed sinks, showers, toilets and taps.
- Floor take-offs on risers. Feeds each floor from a vertical rising main in apartments and offices.
- Tank manifolds. Links two or more storage tanks so they fill and draw together.
- Drain-down points. Adds a drain valve at the low point of a line for maintenance.
- Pressure gauge tappings. Provides a branch for a gauge or pressure switch, with a reducing bush.
- Fire hose reel branches. Feeds hose reels from a threaded fire water main.
- Irrigation laterals. Splits an irrigation main into lateral lines for different blocks.
- Pump bypass lines. Creates a bypass around a pump or meter for servicing.
- Water heater feeds. Splits the cold supply between a water heater and cold outlets.
- Livestock troughs. Branches farm water lines to several troughs along a fence line.
- Borehole sampling points. Adds a sample or test tap near the wellhead.
- Line extensions. Adds a new outlet to an existing GI line during renovations.
How to choose and install
- Pick the tee by the size of the main run. Then reduce the branch with a bush if it is smaller.
- Fit an isolating valve on each branch, so you can work on it without shutting the main.
- Plan the screwing order: the last joint on a closed loop usually needs a union.
- Seal male threads with PTFE tape or hemp and paste, and do not over-tighten.
- Support heavy branches, so the tee does not carry their weight.
Why choose Sparks Plumbing Experts
- Every common pipe materialGI, PPR, PVC, HDPE, brass and stainless fittings are all stocked, so you can match any existing system.
- Common sizes in stockMost fitting types come in several sizes, from small domestic sizes up to larger mains sizes.
- Pipes, fittings and valves togetherPipes, fittings, valves, clamps and jointing products come in one order.
- Help with thread and size standardsWe help you confirm inch and millimetre sizes before you buy, which avoids return trips.
- Visit or collect in NairobiOur store is at KCB Building, Enterprise Road, in the Industrial Area, so you can see parts before you buy or collect your order.
- Quotes your wayAsk for prices by phone, WhatsApp, email or the online quote form, whichever suits you on site.
- Over 1,600 products in one placeOur catalogue covers 55 categories, so one supplier can handle most of your parts list.
- Help choosing the right partSend a nameplate photo, a drawing or the old part, and we help you match size and specification.
- Single items or project quantitiesWe price a single replacement part just as readily as a full site order.
- Supply across East AfricaWe serve customers across Kenya. We also supply buyers in Uganda, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Rwanda, Burundi, DR Congo, Ethiopia and South Sudan.
Related products and accessories
Browse more: GI Pipes & Fittings · Valves · Gauges · Tapes.
Ordering from Sparks Plumbing Experts
We supply customers across Kenya. We also serve buyers in Uganda, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Rwanda, Burundi, DR Congo, Ethiopia and South Sudan. You can collect from our store at KCB Building, Enterprise Road, Nairobi, or ask us about delivery to your site. Send your quantities and specifications, and we will reply with prices and availability.
Request a Quote WhatsApp 0726 086 895
Frequently asked questions
How do I install a GI tee pipe fitting in an existing line?
Cut out a section of pipe, thread the ends, then fit the tee with a union so the joint can be tightened.
What is the difference between a tee and a cross?
A tee has three outlets. A cross has four, so it feeds two branches from one point.
Can a GI tee pipe fitting take a gauge?
Yes. Fit a reducing bush in the branch, then screw in the gauge or a gauge cock.
Where is a GI tee pipe fitting used?
It is used at every branch point in GI water, irrigation, fire and pump lines.
What details do you need to quote GI tees?
Tell us the size, the quantity and what the item will connect to. A photo of the old part or a drawing also helps. Then call or WhatsApp 0726 086 895, or use the quote form on this page.
Do you deliver GI tees outside Nairobi?
Yes. We supply customers across Kenya. We also serve buyers in Uganda, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Rwanda, Burundi, DR Congo, Ethiopia and South Sudan. Delivery or courier arrangements are agreed when you confirm the order.
How much does a GI tee cost in Kenya?
The price depends on the size, the quantity and current steel prices. Therefore, send your list with a quote request and we will reply with current figures.
Should I use PTFE tape or paste on GI tees?
Either works when applied correctly. Wrap PTFE tape clockwise on the male thread, or use hemp with jointing paste on larger sizes. Do not over-tighten, because that can crack the fitting.
Can GI tees connect to copper pipe?
Avoid a direct joint between galvanized steel and copper, because the zinc then corrodes quickly. Instead, use a brass adaptor or, better, a dielectric union as the transition.
Do you stock reducing GI tees?
This range lists equal tees. Ask us for reducing tees, or use an equal tee with a reducing bush on the branch.
Are GI tees suitable for hot water?
Yes, for normal domestic hot water. However, zinc corrodes faster above about 60 degrees Celsius, so hot lines may wear sooner.
Why does a tee joint leak after fitting?
Usually the sealant was too thin, or the tee was backed off after tightening. Remake the joint with fresh tape or paste.
Where can I buy GI tee pipe fitting in Kenya?
Buy it from Sparks Plumbing Experts Ltd at KCB Building, Enterprise Road, Industrial Area, Nairobi. We are open Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5 pm, and Saturday, 9 am to 12 noon. You can also order by phone or WhatsApp on 0726 086 895. We deliver across Kenya and to Uganda, Tanzania, Zanzibar, Rwanda, Burundi, DR Congo, Ethiopia and South Sudan.
People also search for
equal tee vs reducing tee
An equal tee has three outlets of one size. A reducing tee has a smaller branch outlet.
tee vs cross fitting
A tee has three openings and a cross has four. Crosses are less common in water lines.
how to add a tee to an existing GI line
Cut out a section, thread the pipe ends, then fit the tee with a union so you can tighten the last joint.
GI tee sizes
Common sizes run from 1/2 inch to 2 inch and larger. The tee size matches the GI pipe size.
GI vs PPR pipe and fittings
GI is stronger and handles knocks and sunlight. PPR does not rust and suits hot and cold water inside buildings.
GI fittings price in Kenya
Prices change with size, quantity and steel costs. Request a quote from Sparks Plumbing Experts for current figures.
how to fix a leaking GI thread
Shut the water, undo the joint, clean the threads, re-seal with PTFE tape or hemp and paste, then tighten firmly.
BSP vs NPT thread
BSP is the British thread used in Kenya. NPT is the American thread with a different angle, so the two do not seal together reliably.
galvanized vs black iron fittings
Black iron has no zinc coating and suits gas and closed heating loops. Galvanized suits water lines, because the zinc slows rust.
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