Let's say your quaint old house has just as dated plumbing. In such a scenario, having Plumber in San Diego, the go-to plumbing expert, do an inspection will reveal any potential issues. If your home has old plumbing pipes, read on to find out what you can do about it.
Difficulties Associated with Outdated Plumbing
There are several issues that plumbers have with older plumbing pipes. Plumbing regulations evolve throughout time as more is learned about what goes into building materials. Plumbing considered state-of-the-art and safe a few decades ago may now violate current safety standards.
Pipes Made of Galvanized Steel
Galvanized steel pipes were dazzling and cutting edge when they were first installed in new construction residences at the end of the nineteenth century. However, rust eventually set in, mineral deposits accumulated, and the pipes leaked harmful heavy metals as time, and use wore away the zinc coats that kept them glossy and safe.
Lead is dangerous and can have serious consequences even in low concentrations. Lead poisoning is especially dangerous for children because of its long-lasting effects on their developing bodies. If you think the pipes in your house are made of galvanized material and have begun to deteriorate, give the expert Plumber in San Diego a call. If you're unsure if your ancient plumbing pipes need to be replaced, we can look.
Signs Problems With Your Pipes
Plumbing pipes deteriorate with time, hard water, and lack of care and attention. Call a plumber immediately if any of the following "symptoms" occur in your home, especially if your plumbing system is older. Following an inspection, they may suggest changing out a specific part of the pipe or the entire system.
Ways to Preserve Your Aging Plumbing
You might want to put off a complete re-piping job if some of the old plumbing is still functional. Protecting your aging pipes and extending their useful lives by taking specific measures is possible.
- Don't use drain cleaners that include chemicals.
If you own an older property with slow drains and clogged pipes, you might be tempted to use harsh chemical drain cleaners to fix the problem. The liquids, gels, and foams sold as drain cleaners are highly acidic, so while they may help briefly, they accelerate the breakdown of ancient pipes. The best way to clean ancient pipes is with enzyme cleaners, vinegar, baking soda, or old-fashioned plunging. If that doesn't work, it's time to call the plumber.
- Don't let rust form on the pipe's exterior.
If your galvanized pipes are still in good working order, you may extend their useful life by removing any rust accumulated on their exterior. Rust can be removed from localized areas using steel wool and a little vinegar. Rust and corrosion can be dangerous if not dealt with properly.
- Close Up the Openings and Cracks
No matter how small at first, pipe leaks can rapidly escalate in size. If you aren't prepared to replace your pipes, you can repair any leaks or cracks with a plumber's putty or pipe repair tape. You can also use these materials to fill cracks and seal openings. Though these measures are temporary, they can buy you time until you have to replace your pipes and prevent water damage.
Is It Time to Replace the Pipes?
Call Expert Plumbers in San Diego are whom you want to contact when it's time to replace your pipes. Copper and PVC piping, two of the newest materials on the market. Copper piping is the best material for installing new water lines or replacing old ones in a property with copper plumbing. They have a longer life and can more reliably resist high temperatures than other pipes. Copper pipes are non-toxic, lightweight, and provide tremendous value despite their high initial cost due to low maintenance requirements.
The most popular material for new plumbing installations is polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It is a better pipe material than galvanized steel or cast-iron pipes since it does not rust or corrode.
