Unfortunately, pipe corrosion is an inevitable occurrence regardless of the material your piping is made of. Even the best materials, like copper, have an expiration date, which is why it’s essential to stay on top of your pipe maintenance. 

There are certain preventive measures you can take to extend the condition of your pipes, aside from hiring the regular services of a plumber. But before that, it’s important to know what causes corrosion in the first place.

The Causes of Corrosion

The most common cause of corrosion is the lowered PH levels of your water. If your water is acidic, it can dissolve your pipes over time. A high level of oxygen in your water can also accelerate the formation of oxidation, causing your lines to rust.

Some other corrosion causes include a high mineral content in water, which causes galvanic corrosion and electrical currents that stimulate a corrosive reaction. It also involves a high velocity of water traveling down your pipes, leading to premature wear.

The Effects of Corrosion

Corrosion has different effects on various types of pipes and water. It can cause discoloration in your water, cloudiness, bitterness, or a foul odor. If you drink water affected by corrosion, it may be detrimental to your health. When you have copper pipes, and your water comes out blue, it may mean there’s too much copper in your water brought on by corrosion. If it’s red, it means you have rust contaminating your water.

Pipe corrosion can also affect your plumbing. It causes low water pressures, leaks, pinholes, breaks, rust stains, and damaged appliances. When your pipes corrode, they become weaker, making them more susceptible to cracks. Some signs that your lines are compromised are low water pressure, high water bills, and cloudy or discolored water.

Preventing Corrosion

To prevent corrosion, the first thing you should do is contact a plumber. A professional is much better equipped to examine the condition of your pipes and determine whether there’s something wrong. If you’re concerned about your water’s quality, you can hire experts to conduct a water quality test. The results will show your water’s PH levels, conductivity, total dissolved solids, alkalinity, and hardness. 

These elements will also tip you off on whether your pipes suffer from corrosion. If your external copper pipes are accumulating rust, you can use a commercial metal polish designed for copper or use a mixture of white vinegar, salt, and flour. Using any of these methods should loosen the alkali stains significantly.

In Conclusion

Pipe corrosion is an inevitable predicament for any household, but there are preventative measures you can take to lengthen the lifespan of your pipes. Hiring a plumber for regular services and maintenance checks will significantly reduce the chances of premature corrosion. It will also help you stress less about your household’s water quality.

If your pipes have corroded, the best thing to do is get a pipe replacement immediately before the compromised water negatively affects you and your family’s health. Contaminated water from pipe corrosion can be hazardous, which is why it’s integral to stay on top of your pipes’ maintenance and repair.

Candu Plumbing & Rooter is a team of professional plumbers in Canoga Park and other areas of California. Contact us today for more information on our services!