Problems With Old Residential Plumbing And When To Replace It

There are advantages and disadvantages to buying an older home. These are often more affordable and come with a lot of character. There is also a good chance the home has already been modified or was a custom home. But, older homes can also have more issues because they have gone through years of normal wear and tear of use. If you own an older home or are considering buying one, it is important to know the signs of worn out plumbing and when replacement is needed.

When you see discolored water

If you notice that the water coming out of your faucets or shower head isn’t clear anymore, that is a bad sign. This is often a common issue with homes that are connected to a well. If this is the case, call your local plumber to get the water tested.

When the water is dark or brownish, that could mean the pipes are corroding. While the rust itself isn’t that bad, the real issue is what it represents. Pipes that are corroding are more prone to mineral and sediment buildup which can result in more frequent blockages and bursts. You can help prevent these issues by getting residential drain cleaning more often or replacing the plumbing pipes completely.

If you smell bad water

Similarly, if you notice that your water is starting to smell, you should contact a residential plumbing company for help. Smelly water is most frequently a sign that there is a buildup of bacteria in your pipes. This could endanger your health and the health of your family. It is often best to simply replace the affected sections of pipe to solve this problem.

One exception is if your water smells like rotten eggs. This means there is a buildup of hydrogen sulfide in your water supply. The water is safe to drink but it could be a sign that there your pipes are suffering corrosion. You can smell this while using hot water due to a chemical reaction resulting in the hydrogen sulfide.

If the issue is present only during hot water use, it is an indication there is something wrong with your water heater. If it is present at all times, then check to see if your water is treated. Treated water that stinks shows that there is an issue with your water softener. Smelly, untreated water points to a buildup of bacteria. Contacting a plumbing company to conduct water testing is best because they can tell you what is causing the odor.

When you find mold and water damage

Mold and water damage are the result of leaks in plumbing pipes. Remember, not all leaks are immediately clear. You could have leaks behind your walls that result in mold and water damage over time. If you see a large brown stain, it is already too late and sections of the wall will need to be replaced along with the leaky pipe. Don’t wait to repair leaks for too long. The longer you wait, the more damage will be done to your home.

If you have clay footer drain tiles and iron pipes

Specifically in older homes, a frequent issue is broken clay footer drain tiles. These tiles help drain water out and away from your home. They tend to crack and break due to tree roots. Modern homes use PVC piping which is more resilient to tree roots, breakage, and corrosion. Older residential plumbing uses clay tiles and iron pipes which are more brittle and prone to damage caused by tree roots. A professional plumbing company should be able to safely remove the tree roots and clean out your pipes and clay footer drain tiles.

Residential drain cleaning in Amarillo, Texas

If your home is having Residential Plumbing issues, contact the professionals at Allen’s Tri-State Mechanical Inc. in Amarillo, Texas. We serve clients throughout the Texas Panhandle and tri-state area. You can reach us at (806) 376-8345 or Contact Us by email to learn more about our services.