If your pipes have been in service for a long period of time, especially pipes that were installed prior to World War II, it may be time to consider a whole-house repiping job. This determination should be made by a reliable plumber with the expertise to make a sensible evaluation. Here are some clues you can look for that indicate your home’s plumbing may be in trouble:
-Clogs and blockages are more common than they should be.
-Water pressure is low when compared to neighbors’ homes or expectations for your home’s plumbing system.
-You hear strange sounds coming from your pipes, like gurgling or rattling noises.
Water Quality
If your water is starting to get brownish or discolored, it’s probably time to look at your pipes. The good news is that there are a few easy ways to test whether the problem is your city’s water supply or your own pipes.
First, turn on your faucet and let it run for about 2 minutes. If the water clears up after a minute or two, then you know that rusting pipes are the issue. If it continues to stay brownish or discolored, then it’s likely coming from your city’s water supply and not from your own pipes.
Rusty pipes can lead to leaking or burst pipes so it’s important not to ignore signs of trouble early on.
Low Water Pressure
If you’re noticing that your water pressure is low, it might be time to replace your old pipes. Over time, certain types of pipes can corrode and rust. The resulting sediments can collect along the inside of the pipes and restrict water flow. Sometimes pieces of rust or scale can even be found in the water supply which is unpleasant at best and may indicate potential health issues down the road. Replacing your old and worn pipes with PEX piping is recommended since it is less susceptible to corrosion and costs less than traditional copper pipes.
Leaking Pipes
Have you ever wondered why your pipes are leaking? Is it because of loose fittings, invasive tree roots, or clogs? Sometimes the pipes themselves may be deteriorating and need to be replaced. A good method for seeing hidden piping behind walls and ceilings is to use a video camera to look for the cause of your leak. A reliable plumber will be able to quickly assess your issue and will advise you if a whole-house repiping is required or just a simple repair.
By using this method, you can identify small problems before they become big ones. You might think that it’s too expensive or time-consuming to replace every pipe in your home when it only needs some TLC, but this is not always true. If you have an old house with lead or galvanized pipes that are rusting or corroding, then it’s best to replace them completely rather than simply replacing the fittings because they will continue to leak and eventually cause more damage over time.
Noisy Pipes
The plumbing in your home is the heart of your home’s functionality. It is what keeps your water running, what allows you to enjoy a hot shower and clean dishes, and what enables you to wash away all of your worries.
However, there are many reasons for plumbing noises in your home. High pressured water, pipes clogged with mineral sediments, and loose pipe mountings are common causes and should be addressed. However, sometimes unusual noises can indicate more significant problems which may require repiping by a professional.
Replacing all of the plumbing in your home can be a daunting task but it is important to address any apparently small problems before they grow into bigger problems or even worse, damage other areas of your home’s infrastructure. Replacing all of your pipes will ensure an efficiently running home and put you at ease knowing that everything is in order for years to come!
Do you think your house needs new plumbing pipes? Contact us today! We are repiping experts in Vista, North County.
