Your pipes are the heart of your home’s plumbing system. Your home relies on one piping system to bring clean water in and another to carry dirty water out. Considering its important role, it’s not surprising to learn that if your pipes are not working properly, it can affect every aspect of your home’s plumbing.
And, one issue that can wreak havoc on your plumbing is pipe corrosion. Pipe corrosion is the deterioration or destruction of your home’s pipes. It’s a process that happens over time, but there are a number of factors that contribute to the rate at which it happens.
Besides leading to a variety of plumbing problems, pipe corrosion can cause metals to get into your water, leading to serious health issues. Given the importance of avoiding pipe corrosion, today we’ll talk about what causes it and a few things you can do to help slow down or stop corroded pipes.
Some Basics about Pipe Corrosion
It’s concerning to learn that pipe corrosion does not only happen to extremely old pipes. In fact, under the right circumstances, pipes can corrode in a matter of just a few years. In order to make sure this doesn’t happen to your pipes, it’s important to know some of the things that accelerate pipe corrosion.
Pipe corrosion can be caused or sped up by:
- the presence of oxygen in your water
- your water’s pH Levels
- the chemical makeup of your water (for example, high levels of calcium)
- high-velocity levels
- high water temperatures
It’s a good idea to have your water and plumbing systems inspected to ensure that you’re minimizing the risks of corroded pipes as much as possible.
Do you Have Clean Pipes?
In addition to reducing risk factors, keeping your pipes clean can help to stop corroded pipes. Regularly cleaning out buildups or blockages can help to protect and extend the life of your pipes. This maintenance is especially important if you have high levels of calcium in your water.
Any time you are concerned that a drain is blocked or sluggish, it’s a good idea to wash it out with white vinegar, which will help breakdown areas of buildup. In addition, it’s helpful to have your pipes regularly cleaned to help prevent, or slow down, pipe corrosion.
Can Clean Pipes Help you Avoid Repiping
Most of us will do anything we can to avoid having to repipe. Surprisingly, sometimes when you think that repiping is necessary, the simple act of thoroughly cleaning all of your home’s pipes can help them to function like new again.
Plus, regularly staying on top of cleaning can help to extend the life of your pipes and to delay the need for repiping. While it’s not always a solution, for many homeowners worried about repiping, all they need is a good cleaning.
Call Lambert Plumbing & Heating, LTD if you’re concerned that your pipes are corroded or if you just need a good checkup. We’re available 24/7 to help you keep your pipes clean and in good condition.