Keeping your plumbing in good shape is crucial, which means you have a safe and functional home to live in. Although your house pipes could last for decades, no pipes last for life. With time, wear and tear will catch up with your pipes and start causing an urgent need for repairs. But how do you tell if it is time to replace or repair your pipes? Below are five clear signs that indicate perhaps it is now time for an action:
- Discolored Water from Your Faucets
If your water coming from the bathroom or kitchen taps has taken on a brownish, yellow tint, this is a sure indication that your pipes are corroded. When corrosion occurs, there is the introduction of rust into your water due to contact with it, and this also may be hazardous for consumption. This is common in homes with galvanized steel pipes, which are older. Left unattended, corroded pipes can weaken over time and lead to serious leaks or even water pressure issues. When you see constant discoloration, know that it may be a pipe replacement instead of a repair.
- Low Water Pressure Throughout the House
A general decline in water pressure in different fixtures is another common indication of pipe-related problems. It occurs because mineral buildup, corrosion, or leakage of pipes restrict the area through which water can pass. Low water pressure does not just reduce the effectiveness of performing daily chores but also is indicative of deeper structural problems in your plumbing system. While certain low water pressure can be repaired, widespread and recurring problems are very often better solved by the replacement of the pipes altogether.
- Frequent Pipe Leaks or Cracks
One of the most apparent indications of failing pipes is when they have cracks or start leaking. A small trickle may cause a major problem in terms of the overall plumbing integrity. Cracks in water pipes will usually lead to mold, water spillage, and high bills for water bills if the area is not cleaned. Check under the sink, along walls, or elsewhere at the foundation of your home. If you notice any of these issues, hire a professional to reline a pipe and prevent further damage to your home. An expert plumber will ensure that your pipes, and plumbing system in general, are in optimal working order.
- Unusual Noises from Your Plumbing System
Does banging, clanging, or gurgling accompany the use of your water system? Noisy pipes are common and usually denote old or deteriorated plumbing. Such noises may be from water hammer, loose pipe fittings, or an excessive amount of air that has become trapped in the pipes. Some noises indicate that the pipes have either shifted or become cracked where temperature changes and the years of years cause their use. Addressing all these sounds promptly will protect small issues from turning into major and expensive repairs. Ignoring them may mean having to deal with bigger plumbing issues later on.
- Pipes Showing Visible Signs of Wear
Look carefully at the exposed pipes in the house. If there is any discoloration, flaking, or rust, that would surely mean that the pipes are nearing their end. Commonly, older plumbing materials such as lead, galvanized steel, or polybutylene deteriorate over time. Even if there are no leaks currently, such things indicate that the pipes probably control a failure later on. In general, these are pipes that need replacement into new modern materials such as copper or PEX for a more durable, safe plumbing system.
In conclusion, plumbing is part of your home’s infrastructure. Ignoring warning signs of piping systems that have gone sour will result in very expensive damage. Regular inspection and timely action save you from a lot of unnecessary headaches. When in doubt, consult a professional to review your system and advise on your best course of action.
About the author:
Peter is a fashion stylist and a writer from Brisbane, Australia. After graduating from Australian Institute of Creative Design he worked as a fashion stylist for few local fashion events. Beside fashion and styling, he enjoys traveling around exotic destinations and discovering new vintage stores. His future plans are in creating his personal styling business.