Identifying Pipe Corrosion

Identifying Pipe Corrosion

Pipe Corrosion is one of the major plumbing problems that if not handled, the potential loss is bigger. The corrosion of a pipe is not instant. It takes many years to begin and once it’s on, rusting is unstoppable. With recently installed metal pipes, it’s rare to detect rusting unless they are of poor quality.

But with the old pipes, it’s a guarantee that there must be corrosion somewhere even if they are steel pipes. After a while, rust can eat through a pipe causing it to collapse or develop holes. And if it supplies pressurized fluids, then it’s bound to burst. Such pipes can lead to water loss and if not detected, it will hurt your wallet.

Also, sediments and contaminants may get into your water system through leakage which may result in stomach illnesses. Other potential losses include damages to your appliances due to sediments and metals getting in your water system.

To be on the safer side, try the following tips for identifying pipe corrosion. You can detect the problem on time and hire the necessary help to locate the problem and fix it.

Strange Taste

Water is tasteless, but if you begin to notice a strange taste in your water, then there must be plumbing issues. And if the taste is metallic, then without a doubt, that’s pipe corrosion. Also, bitter water when you first open the tap is a sign of corrosion. And lastly, any sweat tastes in the water can be a result of lead deposits.

Low Water Pressure

Gradual reduction of water pressure means their internal corrosion is known as tuberculation. With this type of corrosion, pipe death is imminent. It will reach a point when it’s only drips of water coming out of the pipe.

Discolored Water

This form of corrosion is more visible. Once your water begins to flow out in strange colors like reddish-brown, green or blue, there must be pipe corrosion. The water assumes the color of the corroding metal and the taste too.

Odor From Water

Ever heard of smelly water? It’s only heard off when the water is dirty or contaminated. Knowing that your tap is clean, it must odorless. But due to corrosion, you may detect funny odors from the water. Often, the odor is rusty or metallic.

Leakages

Water leakage from pipes can be a result of many causes, but the most common one is corrosion. Once the pipe begins to corrode, it loses structural integrity. With time, perforations that are as small as pinhole will begin to develop. But some leakages can be as massive as a burst of water. Also, high water bills than the consumption rate can be a sign of underground or hidden pipe water leaks.

Temperature Fluctuations

You should detect this when you are using a hot water tap. When there is a drastic change in water temperature, means the corrosion problem is in either pipes or anti-scald mechanism. With the buildup of corrosion, temperature fluctuations are bound to be common in a hot water system.

Unusual noises from pipes

The water system is usually quiet. And when there is a sound, it’s the smooth flow of water. However, any loud sound like gurgles, bangs, clanks, and moans is a signal of pipe corrosion.

Lastly, if you identify any of the above signs, then that means your property may have corroding pipes. Quickly, call a professional plumbing service company to fix the issue and avoid further damage. Remember, corroding pipes allow water leakages which can interfere with the structural integrity of your home or business premise.

And the best way to prevent further losses seeking help from professional plumbers. Flamingo Plumbing can inspect, identify the corroding pipe and replace them. They are professional and guarantee a quality outcome.