Why Should I Replace my Galvanized Pipes?

Many houses in Marin County were built before 1960 when galvanized pipe was commonly used for water supply lines. It was a safer alternative to lead pipes which could corrode easier and contaminate your water supply. If your home was built before 1960, it may be time to evaluate whether you should update your water supply lines from galvanized to copper, here’s why:

Galvanized pipes are steel pipes coated with a protective layer of zinc, the result is a pipe that is still mostly steel and only the outside is shielded. It’s easy to understand how galvanized pipes can become corroded on the inside with consistent water usage. You may need to replace your galvanized pipes if you are experiencing the following symptoms:

Low Water Pressure: When galvanized pipes become corroded on the inside it restricts water flow.

Discoloration of Water: The iron that is sometimes released in galvanized pipes can give water a rusty discoloration. You will know this is present if your white sinks have a brown discoloration.

Uneven Distribution of Water:  If the faucets in your home have uneven water distribution or lower/higher water pressure, this could be due to corrosion in your galvanized pipes.  Corrosion can happen in uneven distribution in the supply lines, leading to some taps getting more water than others.

Leaks: If you are noticing higher water bills or noticing that leaks are occurring more often then they used to in you home you may have old, galvanized pipes to blame. Over time, galvanized pipes not only corrode but will rust through, causing cracks and leaks. This can lead to severe damage to your home if not caught beforehand and handled properly.

Galvanized pipes are also very difficult to repair. Most of the time, if a leak occurs with galvanized pipe, the line is likely to be replaced with copper. It’s better to get on top of preventing leaks and planning out when you’ll install copper instead of waiting until it’s the only solution for a major leak that can cause damage to the home.

If you would like to schedule a time for Dan’s Plumbing to look at your galvanized pipe situation, please email us at dan@dansmarinplumbing.com or call us: 415-462-5858.