How Do I Know If I Need a Repipe?
We get it – repiping your home is a big job, and if you’re like most people, it’s one you’re very willing to delay. But be warned: ignoring the signs of failing plumbing pipes and putting off the inevitable repipe could set you up for an even bigger problem down the road. Pipe failure could result in a serious plumbing leak that will cost you even more money to fix.
Here are seven unmistakable signs that your pipes are due for replacement:
- Poor water pressure
- Frequent plumbing leaks
- Noisy pipes
- Visible pipe corrosion
- Discolored water
- Bad-tasting or bad-smelling water
- Fluctuating water temperature
Let’s look at each sign in greater detail.
1. Poor Water Pressure
Proper water pressure is a critical element of a well-functioning plumbing system. Water pressure that is too high places too much stress on your pipes and fixtures and can cause leaks, damage, and shorten the lifespan of your water-using appliances. Water pressure that is too low simply doesn’t provide you with the amount of water you need to shower, wash laundry, and perform other household tasks.
As your metal pipes age (especially here in Southern California, where we have very hard water), they may suffer from sediment buildup or corrosion that narrows the interior walls of the pipe, making it more difficult for water to pass through. If your water pressure seems to have gradually diminished over time, it may be time to have a plumber take a look at your pipes.
2. Frequent Plumbing Leaks
A single isolated plumbing leak usually isn’t cause for alarm, but if you keep having recurring pipe leaks, that’s a really good indication that pipe repair isn’t the right solution. The walls of metal pipes gradually thin as water passes through them over time. This process may be speeded along depending on the amount of minerals in your water, what material your pipes are made from, and other factors. When the pipe walls become thin and weak enough, they can form tiny pinhole leaks or larger breaks that can lead to water damage in your walls, floors, or under sinks. Multiple leaks in different areas are a surefire sign that your pipes need to be replaced.
3. Noisy Pipes
Do you hear a strange banging, squealing, or shrieking noise when you turn on your water? “Water hammers” and other noises are nothing to ignore – they may be alerting you of a problem with your pipes. As a pipe’s internal flaws increase, so too will the strange noises as water flows through them. A professional plumber can help you assess the situation and determine whether a whole-house repipe is the right fix.
4. Visible Pipe Corrosion
The absolute last thing you want to see on your pipes is any evidence of corrosion. Deterioration of the metal means that a pinhole leak or pipe burst may soon be in your future. If you see any discoloration, flaking, or weird-looking rusty stains on exposed sections of pipe, that’s pretty undeniable proof that your pipes are reaching the end of their service lives and are due to be replaced.
5. Discolored Water
Pipe corrosion doesn’t just limit itself to the exterior of your pipes. If the water coming from your taps is an unappealing yellowish or rusty brown color, that could mean that there is a buildup of rust inside your pipes. Take note of when the problem happens, though – if your water is always discolored no matter which tap you’re running, the problem is likely your pipes. If only your hot water is discolored, you may actually have a problem with rust and corrosion in your water heater.
6. Water That Smells or Tastes Bad
Yep, we’re still talking about rust! If you’ve ever smelled something rusty, you know that it has an unpleasant metallic or even sulfuric odor. If you’re smelling or tasting that in your water, that may indicate that your pipes are deteriorating and releasing flakes of rusty metal into your water. Since you need clean water to drink, brush your teeth, bathe, and cook with, addressing this problem should be a top priority.
7. Fluctuating Water Temperature
You may be familiar with this scenario: you’re in the shower and the temperature is perfect. Then, someone flushes a toilet somewhere in your house, and all of a sudden you’re hit with a blast of scalding hot or freezing cold water. Or maybe you’re doing dishes and you adjust the faucet to get the water a little warmer, but nothing seems to be happening. If this sounds familiar, your pipes may be to blame. Inconsistent water temperature and wild fluctuations could be related to a narrowing of the walls of your pipe, which is leaving you with poor temperature control.
Request a Quote from Our San Bernardino County Home Repipe Experts Today
Repiping your house is a worthy investment in your comfort and in the value of your home. If you have noticed any of the signs above and suspect that now may be the time to repipe, give All Pro Plumbing a call today at (909) 500-8193. Our plumbing team is standing by to answer all of your questions and provide you with trustworthy advice.
Not sure if your Southern California home needs a complete repipe? All Pro Plumbing can provide you with an honest assessment.