You owe a lot to your plumbing system. It offers you constant access to pure and drinkable water while ensuring that your personal waste is discarded properly.
With regular maintenance, you can easily maximize the longevity and efficiency of your plumbing system. A well-maintained plumbing system will serve you for decades. Even if you take good care of your plumbing system, sadly, your waterways and pipes will eventually wear down and will need replacement over time.
Here are other tell-tale signs that your pipes are nearing their service life and will need replacement very soon.
Discoloured Water
Water from your faucet should always be crystal clear. Anything other than clear water is a sign that something is potentially wrong with your pipes. That said, there are instances of getting slightly discoloured water due to issues in the local municipality’s water lines. This type of water discolouration is nothing to worry about and should go away once your local municipality addresses the issue.
However, if there’s nothing wrong with the local water lines and the discolouration only occurs in your home, then it’s a clear sign to replace your pipes. This is particularly alarming in the event that the water is bright red, yellow, or orange since it indicates the presence of rust in your water that’s probably caused by a corroded pipe.
As your pipes break down, the rusted parts may start to break off, get into your waterways and cause discolouration. If left alone, rust and corrosion will eventually create holes in the pipes that allow unwanted sediments into your water supply as well as increase the risk of leaks and burst pipes which can be costly to repair.
So, the next time you use the faucet and find discoloured water, call an expert plumber like Dan’s Plumbing who has strong reviews right away.
Constant Clogs And Slow Drains
A clogged drain may not seem like a big issue, but if it occurs frequently then it can indicate a more serious issue at hand. Consistent clogging and slow draining often mean that there’s a deep clog inside the pipe.
A clog may also form if sediment piles up in your pipes. In addition, tree and plant roots may cause slow or clogged drains. Since some part of your plumbing pipes is underground, roots may puncture the drain pipe and cause a blockage.
Leaky Pipes
Leaks are probably the most common plumbing issue that most homeowners face.
While most leaks can be repaired, frequent leaks taking place in the same spot or fixture tell you that it’s time to switch your pipes to new ones. Over time, this small leak can easily turn into a bigger mess when left unfixed.
Frequent leaking may be an indication of corroding pipes as well. So, even if you can repair the leaky area unless you change the corroded pipe, you’ll soon have a costlier problem to deal with.
An expert plumber may be able to repair the leak without replacing your pipe. Yet they may suggest pipe replacement if your pipes are in bad shape too.
Low Water Pressure
Reduced water pressure may be an early sign that your pipe needs replacement.
But before deciding to replace your pipes, check your water heater or main water valve first. Sudden low water pressure may be caused by a malfunctioning heater and not your pipes. In the event that there are no issues present in your heater, a slower decrease in water flow may be a sign of cracks and leaks in your pipes.
Also, old pipes may get clogged with rust over time which reduces the pressure of water as it moves through the blocks. If this is the case, call a reliable plumber right away to inspect your pipes and determine if you’ll need a pipe replacement the soonest.
Aging Pipes
As with any system in your home, your plumbing pipes also have a specified lifespan. While you can take every necessary measure to maintain them, once your pipes reach their maximum lifespan, it’s a sign to replace them to prevent more serious problems in the future.
Water supply pipes are made of copper, brass, or galvanized steel. Both galvanized steel and brass last the longest, with an estimated lifespan of 80-100 years. Copper, on the other hand, is also long-lasting but only lasts for about 70-80 years.
In terms of drain pipes, PVC is the most common material used that lasts for about 25-40 years. Some homes may have cast-iron drain pipes which can last for up to a century.
It’s best to know what types of piping your home has and keep track of their age, so you can take the initiative to replace them when the time comes.
Dangerous Pipe Material
If a plumbing inspection reveals that you have polybutylene or lead pipes, you must get them replaced right away, regardless of the condition.
Lead pipes are known for their durability and can last up to 100 years, making them quite popular during the early 20th century. Yet recent research revealed that these pipes can leach lead into your drinking water and result in serious health issues. For instance, prolonged exposure to lead can stunt a child’s growth and cause reproductive and kidney issues in adults.
Meanwhile, polybutylene pipes, which became popular in the late 20th century, may not be dangerous in terms of health. But it’s more fragile than other materials, posing a risk of damage to your property in just a short time.
Strange Noises
Unusual noises inside your walls or hearing a shrieking sound when opening your faucets or shower are clear signs of compromised or aging pipes. In particular, if you hear creaking or banging, it’s important to call a plumber right away.
Strange noises from pipes typically occur due to water pressure irregularity. A possible blockage can cause fluctuations in water pressure and create strange sounds as well. To boot, your pipes may become increasingly shaky over time due to wear and tear. Thus, make sure to have them inspected by a professional right away.
Takeaway
Your plumbing pipes are one of the most important systems in your home. However, like any other item or system in your home, your pipes don’t last forever. Once you see any of the signs mentioned above, it’s time to consult a plumbing expert to look further into the situation and provide the necessary advice and service required.
