Six Warning Signs That Your Plumbing Pipes Need Immediate Replacement
The importance of a well-functioning plumbing system cannot be overstated. Should there be any plumbing troubles in your pipe connections, like a leak, the impact on your quality of life could be significant. A compromised plumbing system affects the purity of the water passing through it.
Occasional plumbing problems are a normal occurrence to most homeowners. However, if plumbing issues become more frequent even after repairs, it’s time to consider replacing your pipes. This will guarantee you a free flow of water coupled with clear drains. If you notice any of the following signs in your home, it’s time to replace your plumbing pipes.
1. Frequent Leaks
A leak once in a while in your home may not raise any alarm. However, if the leaks become more frequent in different areas of your home, it is time to consider replacing your pipes. A minor leak in your house can potentially point to a larger plumbing problem in your home. Sometimes leaks aren’t clearly visible, especially those that occur on your walls and ceilings.
If you spot dark spots and discolored patches near any water fixtures or on areas, such as walls, it indicates the presence of a leaking pipe. If your water charges have significantly increased with no evidence of increased water usage in your home, you could be facing a pipe leak. Call Colorado Springs 24-hour emergency plumber immediately if you notice any sign of a water leak. The plumber will diagnose the source of the leak and fix it properly. In the event of persistent leaks, the plumber may recommend the replacement of your plumbing pipes.
2. Discolored Water
Occasionally, you may experience discolored water in your home. This may be due to your city conducting repairs on main water lines. However, if the water coming out of your pipes is consistently brown, yellow, or orange in color, it calls for pipe replacement.
Do not hesitate to call your technician to come and check the issue. Discolored water results from rust and corroded pipes. Old steel pipes in your home are likely to be more corroded, resulting in the chipping off of rusted bits into the flowing water. Discoloration indicates that your pipes are worn out and have higher chances of leaks and bursts.
3. Low Water Pressure
It can be really frustrating to have low water pressure in your home. It affects a lot of household activities, such as rinsing dishes. Sediment build-up and corrosion are some of the main causes of low water pressure. Sediments in your pipes block the free flow of water in your pipes. If low water pressure due to sediment build-up isn’t promptly resolved, it can result in leaks and burst pipes.
If you are experiencing low water pressure in your home, call a licensed plumber. The technician will identify the exact cause of low water pressure in your home. If the cause of low water pressure in your home is due to the extensive buildup of sediment in your pipes, the technician may recommend re-piping.
4. Frequent Clogs
If you are experiencing frequent clogs in your plumbing system, it may be an indication that you need to replace your pipes. Frequent clogs in your drains indicate the presence of a clog located deep in your plumbing system. Tree roots are the other major culprits that result in clogged drains by penetrating the piping material.
As mentioned earlier, the buildup of sediment in the pipe connection also results in clogs. If you have a clogged drain, call an experienced professional to unclog the drain. If the drains repeatedly clog within a short timeframe, consider re-piping your home.
5. Aged Pipe
Most home pipes will need to be replaced at some point. If your home pipes are made of galvanized steel, they have a lifespan of about 20 to 50 years. For those made of brass and copper, their lifespan is about 40 years and 50 years respectively. PVC pipes last for about 25 to 45 years.
For a newly constructed house, this may not be a problem, as all pipes are relatively new. However, if you live in an old home, have your plumber check out the make of your pipes. Hard water deposits and high water pressure can significantly reduce the lifespan of your home pipes, no matter the make. Proper maintenance of pipes is key for them to last longer.
6. Corrosion
If your home pipes are made of metal, especially galvanized steel, they are highly prone to corrosion. Once corrosion sets in, you will have to replace your plumbing pipes. If the exposed portions of your plumbing system are visibly damaged and corroded, it signifies even more corrosion in the pipes behind the walls or ceilings.
If the pipes are also discolored, it indicates a major corrosion problem. Call your local plumber if you notice signs of corrosion in your home. If corrosion isn’t fixed, you are likely to experience increased leaks in your home.
