Your plumbing system is an essential component of your daily life at home. It allows you to have fresh, clean water for showering, cleaning, cooking, and drinking. Plus, your pipes also ensure that wastewater is properly disposed of. So, it’s crucial that they’re always in optimal condition.
Plumbing pipes typically last for years. But, encountering issues with them every so often is unavoidable, and replacing them may become necessary over time. In that case, hiring a plumbing expert is most beneficial. To find out whether you need a pipe replacement, watch out for some of these signs:
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Leaky Pipes
This is one of the most common plumbing issues that homeowners encounter. No matter how small a leak is, it should not be overlooked. Besides rising water bills, the leak may worsen and wreak havoc in your home if left unfixed, potentially causing a flood or severe water damage.
Some causes of leaking pipes include damaged seals and high water pressure, but frequent occurrences may also indicate signs of corrosion. Corroded piping may cause serious health problems, so it should be identified and replaced immediately. Spotting leaks can be difficult, especially in hidden pipes. So, it’s ideal to let a plumbing professional who has the right tools and expertise deal with the problem.
Frequent Clogs
Clogs are another typical problem experienced in most households. And although it’s possible to rectify this issue with simple repairs, frequent clogging in your drains and sinks can suggest a more serious plumbing issue that may require pipe replacement.
Recurring clogs may occur because of a blockage deep within your pipes, which sometimes caused by sediment buildup or tree and plant roots that have penetrated your pipework. This type of severe clogging can result in leaks or burst pipes, so it’s best to get in touch with a plumber for an inspection immediately.
Smelly and Discolored Water
If you notice the water in your home suddenly has a strange smell and is looking murky or brownish, it’s a sign that there is something wrong with your piping. These issues may occur when your pipes start to break down. When this happens, rust particles and mineral deposits mix with your water supply, thus causing an unpleasant smell and discoloration.
Using contaminated water can be hazardous to you and your family’s health. So, it’s crucial to have this issue checked by an experienced plumber right away.
Low Water Pressure
A significant decrease in your home’s water pressure can cause inconveniences in your daily routine, including taking a shower, using the washing machine, or doing the dishes. This may be the result of a failing regulator, broken fixtures, or a faulty main water shutoff valve, which can easily be repaired by a plumber.
But, if your water pressure suddenly plummets, it is a likely sign of more serious pipework problems, such as corrosion. If you suspect that this is the case or detect visible corrosion on exposed pipes at home, it’s best to call a plumbing expert for a pipe replacement.
Aged Pipes
As with your appliances and other crucial home systems, your plumbing also has a dedicated lifespan. Although proper usage and maintenance are helpful in caring for your pipes, once they have reached their age limit, replacing them is necessary to prevent any potential issues. Plumbing pipes have varying lifespans depending on their type of material. Some examples include:
- Standard galvanized steel – 80 to 100 years
- Grey cast iron – 80 to 100 years
- Copper – 70 to 80 years
- PVC – 25 to 40 years
If you have an older home, it is likely that the pipes may already be outdated and will require replacing. You can check this yourself if you are unsure, or simply hire a plumber to have them examine it for you. Besides inspecting the state of your plumbing, they may also recommend the right replacement and provide further advice on maintaining your pipework.
Learning about these warning signs will help you take care of your plumbing pipes. Aside from preventing serious piping problems, doing so will also ensure your home’s plumbing system is working in optimal conditions. If you are unfamiliar with pipe replacement, reach out to a professional. By hiring a plumbing expert, you can ensure that the job will be done efficiently and effectively.
Tags: Pipe Replacement
