Rusty plumbing pipes can be a major problem for homeowners, causing a range of issues from discolored water to leaks and corrosion. Unfortunately, it can be challenging to spot the signs of rusty pipes until the damage has already been done. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at the common signs of rusty plumbing pipes and what the plumbers at One Source Home Service do to repair them. Whether you’re a homeowner or a renter, understanding these warning signs can help protect your property and ensure your plumbing system is functioning properly.
Factors Contributing to Rusty Pipes
So how do rusty pipes occur in the first place? Though rusty pipes can develop in any home, there are certain factors that increase their likelihood. Here are the factors that lead to rust in your plumbing pipes.
Age of the Home
If your home was built before the 1960s, there’s a chance that it was built with older pipes. These older pipes are usually made with galvanized steel or iron, which are more susceptible to rust.
Hard Water
Hard water contains high levels of minerals such as calcium and magnesium. Unfortunately, these minerals cause rust and corrosion in pipes over time. You may need services like drain and pipe cleaning in Colorado Springs, CO.
Acid Water
The pH of low-pH water makes it acidic, which leads to corrosion and rust in pipes. Acid water is more likely to be found in a high concentration of granite, shale, or other rock types. You should have your regularly water tested if you live where acidic water is common to ensure that it is safe to drink and use.
Well Water
In Colorado, 19 counties heavily rely on the state’s groundwater and well water sources. If your home relies on well water, it may be more prone to rusty pipes, especially if the water has a high iron content.
Poor Water Quality
Poor water quality can contribute to the development of rusty pipes, as can factors such as low water pressure or stagnant water in pipes.
Do I Have Rusty Pipes?
Are you wondering if your home has rusty pipes? Sometimes there are a few obvious signs, but in other cases, it can be hard to tell without an expert plumber’s assessment, such as the ones from One Home Source Service.
Discolored Water
If your tap water has a reddish or brownish tint, you may have rusty pipes on your hands. The discoloration is caused by rust mixed into the water.
Low Water Pressure
Rust can build up in pipes over time, reducing the amount of water flowing through them. This can result in lower water pressure in the shower and other water fixtures.
Unpleasant Taste or Odor
Rust can be the culprit behind your water’s unpleasant taste or odor, making it less appealing and even dangerous to drink or use for cooking. You may need to contact a drain and pipe cleaning service in Colorado Springs, CO, to determine the cause of the foul taste and odor in your water.
Corrosion or Leaks
Rust causes the pipes to weaken and develop gaps, which leads to leaks. This can also result in water damage to your home, which is often expensive to repair.
Noise
If you hear banging or rattling when water is flowing through the pipes, it may be a sign of rust.
What Can Be Done About Rusty Pipes?
So what if you have rusty pipes at home? What can you do to fix the situation? Below, we provide three ways to resolve rusty pipes and one way to prevent them from happening.
Pipe Cleaning
The first way to repair rusty pipes is to have them cleaned. Many plumbers offer drain and pipe cleaner services in Colorado Springs, CO. The purpose of this service is to remove rust and other buildup using specialized tools and techniques that will restore the water flow and quality.
Pipe Replacement
Sometimes the only way to fix rusty pipes is to replace them, especially if they are corroded or damaged. Though more expensive than other options, a replacement can help ensure your plumbing system functions properly.
Water Treatment
If your home has hard water or acidic water, you can improve your water quality by installing a water treatment system.
Regular Plumbing Maintenance
Regular plumbing maintenance is an excellent preventative measure to ensure that rust and other problems do not develop in your pipes. Maintenance services include flushing your pipes regularly, monitoring your water quality, and promptly addressing any leaks.
Drain and Pipe Cleaner in Colorado Springs, CO
Do you think you have rusty pipes in your home? If so, contact One Source Home Services for expert pipe cleaning services and repairs. With our team of professional plumbers, your pipes and water quality will be restored in no time! Call us today at (719) 204-1809.
