Pipes make our daily lives easier, letting water flow right where we need it. But pipes don’t last forever. Over time, many homes and businesses face the problem of pipe corrosion. This can lead to leaks, damage, and even costly repairs if not treated early. Let’s break down what causes pipe corrosion, how you can spot it, and the best ways to prevent it—so your plumbing keeps working smoothly.
What Is Pipe Corrosion?
Pipe corrosion means the metal in your pipes is breaking down or being eaten away. This usually happens over years or decades, though sometimes it can show up sooner. When pipes corrode, they may start to rust, discolor, or get weak—and this is when leaks and other plumbing issues start to show up.
Common Causes of Pipe Corrosion
There are several main reasons why pipes rust or corrode:
Water Quality
Water moving through your pipes can have minerals, chemicals, or even acid in it. Hard water (water with lots of calcium and magnesium) is tough on pipes. If your city uses a lot of chlorine in its water, or if the water is very acidic, pipes start to break down faster.
Old Pipes
Many homes built before 1970 used galvanized steel or iron pipes. These metals corrode easily, especially compared to copper or newer plastic pipes. The older your pipes, the more likely they are to have rust on the inside.
High Water Pressure
Water pressure that’s too high can push water through pipes so quickly that it damages the inner walls. Over time, that pressure chips away at the metal and leads to weak spots that are prone to corrosion.
Oxygen in Water
Every time water sits in your pipes, it mixes with oxygen from the air. The metal reacts with oxygen, creating rust—a type of corrosion we’re all familiar with. Hot water pipes corrode faster because heat speeds up this reaction.
Chemical Drain Cleaners
It’s tempting to pour store-bought cleaners down the drain when there’s a clog. However, many of these use strong chemicals that are tough on pipes. These chemicals don’t just eat away at the clog—they also attack the pipes themselves.
Bad Pipe Connections
If pipes aren’t joined properly, or if two different kinds of metal are connected without the right fitting, corrosion can happen much faster. When different metals touch, a chemical reaction called galvanic corrosion starts, which can ruin the pipes.
Signs that Your Pipes Are Corroding
Not sure if your pipes have corrosion? Look for:
-
Water that’s orange, brown, or has a strange taste.
-
Water drops in your basement or under sinks, even when nothing’s running.
-
Stains on your walls or ceilings near plumbing pipes.
-
Decreased water pressure.
-
Frequent leaks or pipe bursts.
If you see any of these warning signs in your home, it’s time to call a plumber.
How to Prevent Pipe Corrosion
The good news is you can slow down or even stop pipe corrosion with some simple steps:
Choose the Right Pipes
If you’re building or remodeling, talk to your plumber about using plastic or copper pipes. These resist corrosion much better than iron or steel.
Test Your Water
Ask your water provider for a water test, or buy a kit yourself. You’ll want to know if the water is too hard, contains acidic minerals, or has other traits that could harm pipes. If needed, consider a water softener or whole-house filter.
Watch Your Water Pressure
You want strong water flow, but anything over about 60 psi is too much for most homes. Have a plumber check your pressure and install a pressure reducer if it’s too high.
Protect Joints and Fittings
Don’t mix pipe types without proper connectors, and always use the right materials to join pipes. This stops galvanic corrosion in its tracks.
Limit Use of Chemical Cleaners
Try to use a plunger, drain snake, or natural cleaners like baking soda and vinegar before reaching for harsh chemicals.
Flush Pipes Regularly
Letting water run for a few minutes every now and then washes away minerals and oxygen that might cause corrosion.
Schedule Plumbing Inspections
A pro plumber can catch early signs of corrosion before they turn into big headaches. They might spot leaks, rust, or weak joints that you can’t see yourself.
Let Z Plumberz Of East Valley Help
Worried about your pipes? Leave it to the experts! Z Plumberz Of East Valley knows how to find pipe corrosion and stop it before it leads to costly damage. Their team uses the latest tools to inspect, repair, and replace pipes so you can relax. They offer honest advice, affordable prices, and fast service across the East Valley area.
Want more peace of mind? Call Z Plumberz Of East Valley today or visit their website to schedule your inspection:
Contact Z Plumberz Of East Valley
Website: zplumberz.com
Phone: (480) 372-9626
Don’t wait for a pipe to burst! Get your pipes checked—protect your home or business with help from Z Plumberz Of East Valley. Reach out today and keep your plumbing running strong for years to come.
Sources: study.madeeasy.in, zplumberz.com
Header Image Source: Christian Mackie on Unsplash
