Plumbing is a critical part of any house and provides essential functions that carry water in and waste out, making our lives comfortable and convenient. However, plumbing wears down with time. Being able to know precisely when to replace plumbing company in Phoenix might save you from a couple of very expensive repairs along with huge damage. In this blog, we look at the lifespan of different kinds of plumbing materials, when signs come up that it should be replaced, and some tips on how one can maintain their plumbing.
Understanding Plumbing Lifespans
Various materials have different service life spans. Knowing these can give one an idea as to when replacement might be necessary.
Copper Pipes
Copper pipes are fairly popular for numerous homeowners. They are fairly durable and can last for as long as 50 to 70 years with the right maintenance. However, they can eventually corrode over time, given the water’s pH or acidity levels. If you have copper pipes in your house, then it will be very important that you check them regularly for any signs of wear and tear or corrosion.
PVC Pipes
The most popular drain lines are PVC pipes, whose usage has extended into many other areas. PVC pipes are lightweight and resistant to corrosion, with a possible lifespan of as long as 100 years. Their integrity is compromised under extreme temperatures. Regular inspections can identify any cracks or signs of wear.
PEX Pipes
PEX or cross-linked polyethylene is a type of flexible piping material that has acquired high demand over recent years. PEX pipes are expected to have a life expectancy of around 25 to 40 years. PEX piping material is resistant to scale and chlorine; hence, it is suitable for a wide range of plumbing systems. However, the PEX pipes damage due to direct exposure to sunlight; hence these pipes are installed in protected areas.
Galvanized Steel Pipes
Galvanized steel pipes installed in homes were more common before the 1960s. The life spans of pipes themselves are about 20 to 50 years considering various environmental and chemical factors, and they rust and corrode easily. You need to consider replacement if your home is installed with galvanized steel pipes. More so, if you begin to feel the effects of low water pressure or rusty water.
Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Plumbing
Even with knowledge about the lifespan of your plumbing materials, several signs will tell you when to replace them. Here are some of the critical signs you should know.
Frequent Leaks
If you observe that you are constantly patching up leaks, then it is probably a sign that your plumbing system has pretty much reached the end of its life. The recurring nature of them happening indicates there is some sort of weakening or corrosion of the material involved. If you have leaks in several places, then this is a good opportunity to consult a plumber about your replacement options.
Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure can be a pain. This can represent blockage or deterioration of the pipes inside. If your water pressure has dropped considerably and you have tried to unclog the system without much success, it may be time to replace it.
Discolored Water
Discolored water coming out of your taps is another symptom of rust and corrosion in the pipes. Rusty water imparts an unwanted taste and odor besides posing a risk to health. If discoloration is recurring, then it is better to seek the opinion of a plumber regarding the extent of deterioration of the pipe and the feasibility of replacement.
Unpleasant Odors
Foul odors from your plumbing system are clear signs of serious issues in the system. The odors could imply molds, bacteria, or sewage leakages. In case of strange smells, do not ignore them; instead, get a plumber to study the source and its possible replacement needs.
Age of the Plumbing System
If your home is older and you have not replaced the plumbing in a very long time, then it might be that you are due for an upgrade. Even when there appears to be no apparent problem, emergency plumbing services can be inefficient and prone to giving you headaches, much more than a new installation. If your plumbing is over 30 years old, then you might want to have them checked.
Benefits of Replacing Old Plumbing
The new plumbing replacements will offer better functionality and safety to your home, and a number of benefits that come along with them. Some of these advantages are listed below.
Improved Water Quality
Newer pipes can actually increase the quality of your water immensely. Older pipes tend to be highly corrosive and can introduce rust and other contaminants into your water supply. Replacing them will ensure your water is cleaner and safer and will taste better.
Increased Efficiency
Newer plumbing materials tend to perform better. The upgrade to newer systems often results in less waste of water, lower utility bills, and generally better performance. This is no less the case for recently developed technologies like PEX, which are planned out-of-the-box with superior flow capability and insulation characteristics.
Reduced Risk of Leaks and Damage
Old plumbing systems are more prone to leaks and breakage. Replacing outdated pipes reduces the risk of water damage to your home, which can be costly to repair. New plumbing materials are generally more durable and less likely to fail.
Increased Home Value
If you want to sell your house, the addition of new plumbing will raise its price. Quite often, homebuyers will pay more for the house because the modern plumbing will have fewer chances of needing repairs anytime soon, and that can reward them in the long run.
Tips for Maintaining Your Plumbing
Regular maintenance can extend the life cycle of your plumbing system. Here are some tips to help you keep your plumbing in great condition.
Regular Inspections
Schedule regular checks by a licensed plumber. He or she can also point out potential issues before they become huge ones. Finding signs of wear early could help you save dollars in repairs further down the line.
Be Mindful of What Goes Down the Drain
Avoid clogging your drains by being very careful about what goes into them. Do not flush non-biodegradable items; be very careful regarding grease, hair, and food scraps that go down your kitchen sinks. Drain covers help to minimize clogs.
Monitor Water Pressure
Monitor your water pressure to know if there are changes. Often, changes in water pressure will indicate underlying problems in the plumbing system. Always look out for leaks, and if the loss of pressure becomes significant, it is time to call in a plumber.
Insulate Pipes
In areas where the climate becomes cold, insulating your pipes can help them not freeze and burst. Insulation of pipes helps in regulating temperatures of the pipe and minimizes the possibility of the pipe bursting during winter.
Know Your Plumbing System
Take some time to get familiar with the inner mechanism of your plumbing system: know how and where shut-off valves are located, along with the general layout of your pipes. This can prove priceless during an immediate emergency situation and will enable you to better convey what’s happening to your plumber.
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