One of the unspoken heroes of our home that usually flies under the radar when everything works fine is the piping system. From food preparation and heating to personal hygiene and waste disposal, our pipes work hard every day to keep everything flowing smoothly.
However, once our piping starts to fail, it’s impossible to ignore and we have to call plumbing services in Rancho Santa Fe without delay. Only then does it become apparent what a crucial role well-functioning piping plays in our domestic comfort. In today’s post, we outline crucial telltale signs that your piping setup is becoming dated and it may be high time to repipe your home.
How do you know if your pipes need replacing?
In most cases, problems start in the guise of minor issues that are nothing more than a nuisance. But since piping problems have the potential to seriously inconvenience our lives, it’s important to act on the first warning signs and avoid more costly and disruptive problems down the line. Let’s now delve deeper beneath the surface and take a closer look at what usually goes wrong.
1. Spike in utility bills
A noticeable hike in water bills usually means that the problem has been present for some time. It may not be the first thing people notice but it certainly springs people into action once their wallets take a hit. Even if the rise in costs isn’t steep, the unpredictable nature of the problem demands swift action to prevent further escalation.
2. Water pressure issues
If you’re having trouble with fluctuating water pressure or you’ve noticed that it’s constantly low, it may point to structural problems with your piping system. Short-term issues may point to a minor clog or stranded debris, but if the problem persists, it’s usually caused by deteriorated plumbing.
3. Discolored water
Maybe the most obvious sign that you seriously need to consider repiping your home is brown or yellowish water coming from your tap. In some cases, water discoloration can be caused by municipal water supply problems but if none of your neighbors is experiencing the same issues, try to avoid exposure to discolored water and get in touch with professional plumbers right away.
4. Frequent leaks
Most homeowners have had issues with occasional leaks but when they become persistent it usually points to a serious problem that won’t go away on its own. Whether it’s corrosion, tree roots, or structural damage, if the leaks are turning into a regular occurrence, don’t risk greater damage, call licensed pros to check out your piping.
5. Aging system
While plumbing setups made up of PVC pipes can last a lifetime or more with proper maintenance, other materials have proven far less durable. Depending on your piping material, here’s how long you can expect your setup to last:
- Polybutylene: 10 to 15 years
- Galvanized steel: between 20 and 50 years
- Brass pipes: around 40 years
- Copper systems: at least 50 years
- Cast iron: up to 100 years
6. Lead piping
Speaking of piping materials, the toxicity of lead pipes demands particular attention. While lead pipes can last for 100 years, they are extremely toxic and dangerous, especially after prolonged exposure. Since there is no safe level of lead exposure for children who are still developing, you need to remove your lead pipes ASAP.
7. Polybutylene setups
Even though they don’t present an immediate danger to the well-being of your loved ones, polybutylene pipes are a well-known trouble causer. They were an extremely popular option from the late 70’ until the mid 90’ due to their relatively low price. However, it turned out that they were not particularly durable. They may also leach chemicals into the water supply so it’s important not to wait and repipe your home at the first opportunity.
Where can I find dependable plumbing services in Rancho Santa Fe, CA & the area?
From the latest plumbing equipment and tools to high-tech camera inspection services, emergency plumbing, and sump pump installation, repair, and maintenance, San Diego Emergency Plumbing is your go-to team of experts who are ready to jump in on a moment’s notice.
We pride ourselves on promptness, attention to detail, and ample experience so feel free to give us a call for any type of plumbing emergency. Take some time to unwind with your loved ones at Lusardi Creek and we’ll do a deep dive into your residential plumbing to pinpoint the exact cause of your problems. Reach out to us now!
