Phoenix, Arizona, has several historic neighborhoods with charming older homes. While these homes are beautiful, they often come with older pipes. As a result, the plumbing in these homes can be susceptible to various issues. Not all older homes require immediate repiping, but homeowners with houses built in the mid-1960s should look out for common problems or signs that their pipes may need professional replacement.
In this blog, we’ll discuss the problems old piping can cause, signs you have old pipes, and how Penguin Air, Plumbing & Electrical can help.
Problems Old Plumbing Pipes Cause
Homes built before the 1970s often used galvanized iron pipes, which are steel pipes covered inside and out by a layer of zinc. As these pipes age, the zinc can break down and lead to a variety of issues, including:
- Reduced water pressure: Older pipes can become clogged by built-up zinc and mineral deposits over time, leading to decreased water pressure throughout your home.
- Rust: Corrosion in your pipes will result in rust, making your water harder and leaving you with stiff laundry, hard water spots, and even bad-tasting drinking water.
- Lead issues: Over time, lead accumulates in the zinc of galvanized iron pipes and enters your drinking water, making it highly dangerous and toxic.
- Sagging: As your pipes become less sturdy and the soil around them moves, they can form a pipe belly that results in poor drainage and clogged sewer lines.
Signs You Have Old Plumbing Pipes
With most of your piping hiding behind walls or under floors, it’s often out of sight and out of mind. However, it’s important to look for signs that your pipes are old and require replacement, such as:
- Discolored water: Yellow or brown tinted water is a clear sign that your pipes have corrosion or rust, which can impact your water quality.
- Drainage issues: From clogged toilets to standing water, the inability of water to drain through your piping indicates issues like clogs, sagging, and more.
- Leaks: If you experience a sudden increase in water bills or see water stains and moist spots on walls and ceilings, your likes could be cracked or leaking from corrosion and age.
- Odors: Your water should be odorless, so if you notice a distinct smell, it is likely due to bacteria or mold growth in your pipes.
What To Do if You Have Old Plumbing Pipes
If you suspect that your home has old pipes, don’t delay. The longer you allow your piping issues to go unaddressed, the greater damage they could do to your home.
Instead, schedule repiping services with a professional plumber. They’ll give you an accurate assessment of the current health of your pipes and, if repiping is needed, provide you with all-new, high-quality piping that will last for decades.
Rely On Penguin for Repiping Services in Phoenix, AZ
When you need repiping services in Phoenix, turn to Penguin Air, Plumbing & Electrical for help. Our team of licensed, insured, and background-checked technicians have the skills and experience to handle even the most complex repiping job with minimal interruption to your day-to-day living. With our superior customer services, you’re sure to get a VIP experience!
Schedule repiping services in Phoenix by calling (480) 550-9943 today.