Common Causes of Corroded Pipes in San Diego

Copper pipe corrosion can be caused by a variety of environmental and chemical causes. Here are some of the frequent causes homeowners in San Diego should be mindful of:

• Elevated Chlorine Concentrations in the Water Supply
  Chlorine is regularly added to local water systems to disinfect and eliminate harmful microbes. However, high levels of chlorine can have a corroding effect on copper plumbing. Over time, this can lead to the slow deterioration of the pipe interior, resulting in pinhole leaks and brown water.
• Corrosion from Rust Within the Hot Water Heater
  Rust and sediment buildup within your water heater can enter the pipework, leading to the corrosion of copper pipes. This is especially typical in aging hot water tanks that haven’t been regularly maintained or flushed. The presence of rust particles hastens the corrosion process, damaging the pipes from the inside out.
• Acidic Water (Low pH Levels)
  Water with a low pH level can be particularly damaging to copper pipes. Acidic water gradually corrodes the copper, leading to the creation of pinhole leaks and, in the end, pipe failure. Residences in the San Diego area with private wells are especially susceptible for this issue, as well water can vary significantly in pH levels.
• Microbial Activity in the Water Supply or Soil
  Certain bacteria found in the water or soil can lead to the corrosion of copper pipes. These organisms can develop a bacterial coating inside the pipes that accelerates the corrosion process. Homes with underground piping or those found in areas with contaminated soil may experience this issue more frequently.

Solutions for Corrosion in Copper Piping

If you’re experiencing signs of corrosion, such as brown water, low water pressure, or frequent leaks, it’s vital to fix the issue as soon as possible to prevent further damage. Here are some solutions to consider:

1. Replacing Pipes
   For localized corrosion or isolated leaks, replacing the affected section of pipe may be sufficient. However, this is typically a temporary solution, as the main reasons for corrosion may still impact the rest of the plumbing.
2. Complete Repipe
   For homes with extensive corrosion or aging plumbing, a total repipe is the most effective solution. Replacing the entire system with high-quality materials like high-grade, made-in-the-USA Type-L copper or Uponor PEX will eliminate existing corrosion and stop future problems. Repipe Specialists offers complete repiping services in San Diego, employing premium supplies to provide a durable, efficient plumbing system.

Stopping Copper Pipe Corrosion

Preventing corrosion in copper piping requires proactive maintenance and, in some cases, moving to more corrosion-resistant materials. Here are some steps to fix corroded pipes in San Diego homes:

• Install a Water Treatment System
  Using a water softening system or a whole-house filtration system can help reduce the levels of chlorine and other damaging particles in your water system. This can greatly prolong the lifespan of your copper pipes by cutting down the factors that lead to corrosion.
• Water Heater Maintenance
  Draining and flushing your water heater once a year to get rid of rust and sediment buildup can avoid these particles from getting into your water pipes and causing corrosion. Regular maintenance also helps boost the efficiency and lifespan of your water heater.
• Consider Repiping
  If your home’s copper piping is aging or you’ve experienced multiple leaks due to deterioration, it may be time to think about repiping. Replacing your existing copper pipes with a more durable piping like cross-linked polyethylene can provide a long-term solution to corrosion problems.