How To Stop Pipe Corrosion

Pipe corrosion is something that should not be taken lightly. Our piping system is the epicenter of your home and comfort. Without piping, we would not have any freshwater nor would we have any way to eliminate waste down the drain.

Taking care of your pipes is a great way to ensure any corrosion will take effect. Unfortunately, corrosion, when circumstances are not right, can show up in as little as a few years; even when your home is new.

To keep this from happening with any other homeowners, we have created this article to give you a basic understanding of how corrosion works, and how you can prevent it, along with the need for repiping services.

How Are Pipes Corroded?

Pipe Corrosion can not only be the cause of costly repairs, but it can have many detrimental health effects. It can also cause appliances to fail, and fixtures not work correctly. Here are some of the causes of corrosion:

• PH Levels- When you have copper piping, and the PH level falls below a certain point, you will notice corrosion.
• Oxygen- When oxygen is mixed with water it is harmful to metal in the form of rust. If you have too much oxygen in your pipes, the rust will eat away at your pipes.
• Mineral Build-Up- Mineral build-up, such as calcium, can cause corrosion as well.
• Temperature- Research has shown that the hotter the water temperature is, the more damage it can do to your pipes.
• Velocity- In this case, sudden changes in pressure, or a change in water direction can also cause corrosion.

Can You Prevent Corrosion?

The best way to prevent pipe corrosion is to clean your pipes. This is particularly important when there is mineral buildup in your pipes. Calcium is a common cause of corrosion that also causes hard water.

Hard water can affect your appliances, your skin, and hair, and cause white scally stains around your water fixtures. Thankfully, there is a way to combat the hard water. Start by removing any standing water that might be left in your sink or tub.

Next, you want to pour about a gallon of distilled white vinegar down the drain. Wait approximately 30 minutes then use a long-handled brush to scrub inside the pipes. The vinegar will help to loosen the calcium build up so it can be washed away. Some other things to do is to stay away from acid-based clogging treatments and to keep your water heater at a good level.

How Repiping Can Help

When it comes to repiping your home due to corrosion, it is a big undertaking. The cost can be significant, along with the inconvenience to your everyday life. Cleaning your pipes is another option that can work just as well.

In this case, a professional will come in and use a high-pressure hose to clean out the inside of your pipes. They are also able to use a camera scope to determine how badly your pipes have been affected by corrosion.

While repiping may be your only option, cleaning your pipes regularly can help preserve the life of your pipes by many years; especially when one or more of the circumstances above are at play!

Vern Kummers Plumbing, Inc. understands the need to keep your pipes free of corrosion. We are available for cleaning, and when need be, repiping services. Give our knowledgeable team a call at (920) 468-8756. We are happy to answer any of your questions!