Properly installed piping can last up to 70 years, but like anything else, pipes will eventually deteriorate and need replacement. Rust, hard water, and other issues will cause water system wear and tear over time.
Water pipe corrosion can harm your water quality and cause health issues. Your pipes may also leak or burst, creating enormous water damage. That’s why you must spot and address pipe deterioration before it becomes a plumbing disaster. If you suspect your water system has started to degrade, contact a licensed plumber in Chaska, MN.
Why Do Pipes Corrode?
Pipe rusting and corrosion happen for several reasons. Oxidation, acidic water, and imbalanced water pressure can all wreak havoc on your pipes.
Oxidation
The oxygen in water accelerates metal pipe degradation, which shows up as rust in steel pipes. Rusty pipes will develop an uneven surface inside and trap various residues and impurities more easily. Eventually, rust may wear through pipes until they develop cracks or leaks.
Acidity
Acidic water can wreak havoc on copper pipes. Copper piping will develop a copper oxide layer, which protects the pipes. Acidic water will wear this layer away and expose copper pipes to corrosion.
Hard Water
Excessively alkaline water isn’t good for your pipes either. High alkalinity is typical for hard water, which leaves mineral deposits as it flows through your pipes. This mineral buildup may interfere with water flow and create blockages. It could also damage appliances like your water heater.
The water in Chaska, MN, is several times higher than the national average. If you notice opaque water stains or soap residue when you wash your hands, you likely have hard water. Hard water may also make your skin feel unpleasantly dry.
Water Pressure
High water pressure can cause water pipe corrosion. The water pressure in your piping may be too high if you live downhill. It’s also possible that your supplier runs the water at a high pressure.
Water flowing at high velocity will make pipes erode more quickly or even burst. High water pressure could also damage appliances like washing machines, water heaters, and dishwashers.
Harsh Chemicals
Do you have a clogged or slow drain? Think twice before you dump chemical drain cleaners down the sink. Caustic drain cleaners can break down not just clogs but your piping as well. Even worse, these chemicals release toxic fumes and may irritate or burn your skin if you accidentally touch them.
How To Recognize Plumbing Corrosion
Corrosive water damage destroys your pipes slowly. A long time may pass before you realize your pipes are deteriorating, but eventually, you may notice:
- Discolored water. The water flowing out of your plumbing fixtures may appear yellowish, brownish, or rusty, especially when it starts running.
- Weird water, taste, and smell. Your water may develop a moldy, metallic, or otherwise strange smell and taste. The smell may also linger in your bathroom and kitchen.
- Weak water flow and clogs. Extremely calcified pipes will grow smaller in diameter, so you may feel the water flow is weaker than before. Any accumulating debris is also more likely to cause clogs in narrower pipes.
- Leaks. Corroded pipes may rust through or crack at some point. Call a plumber ASAP if you notice a leak.
Is It Safe To Use Water From Corroded Piping?
Water flowing from corroded pipes could be a health hazard. As piping degrades, it will start leaching various chemicals and minerals into water.
While rust in water usually isn’t dangerous, copper residues can be harmful. High copper levels could damage your kidneys and liver over time. Additionally, if you live in an older home, your water system may date from before the current lead-free regulations for drinking water fixtures. Lead is extremely toxic, especially for children, so you should replace any lead-containing pipes as soon as possible.
Protecting Your Pipes From Corrosion in Chaska, MN
While water pipe corrosion or deterioration will happen sooner or later, you can slow it down significantly if you:
- Install a water softener. Softer water is much better for pipes, appliances, and your skin.
- Regulate water pressure. If you suspect your water pressure is too high, ask a plumber to check it and install a pressure regulator if necessary.
- Avoid running extremely hot water. The water flowing through your pipes shouldn’t be hotter than 180 degrees.
If you haven’t had your pipes checked in several years, we strongly recommend scheduling a plumbing inspection. Catching pipe corrosion early will help protect your water quality and avoid a crisis like a burst pipe.
What If Your Pipes Have Degraded?
Once a plumber confirms that you have corroded piping, they may propose several solutions depending on the extent of the problem.
Descaling
If the pipes have calcified or rusted inside but are still structurally sound, a plumber may use descaling equipment to clean them. The descaling process will remove the deposits and restore the pipe’s diameter. This method only works if your pipes are large enough to accommodate the equipment.
Partial or Full Pipe Replacement
The plumber may suggest removing the corroded pipe sections and replacing them with new piping and fittings. They may also install linings to stop corrosion and protect the piping.
If your water system is old and in poor shape, you may need to replace it entirely. While installing new pipes is a large and costly project, it will resolve any water pipe corrosion issues for many years.
You’ll also need to consider the piping material. The flexible, freeze-resistant structure of PEX piping gives it an advantage in Minnesota winters.
Call Babe Plumbing, Heating and Air for Top-Tier Plumbing Solutions in Chaska, MN
Did you notice any tell-tale signs of water pipe corrosion, like discolored or strange-smelling water? Call us to schedule a plumbing inspection. We at Babe Plumbing, Heating and Air provide reliable plumbing solutions for your home in Chaska, MN.
We’re also here to answer all your questions. Do you want to know how to protect your piping or wonder why sewer line replacement is expensive? Get in touch with us anytime.
Contact us to schedule a service call.