You don’t feel safe drinking water straight out from the tap? Well, the problem might be that your property is old and galvanized plumbing pipes are used in it for water supply. Although these pipes are very strong and resistant to damage, years of punishing and buildup damage them and make your water undrinkable.
Galvanized Plumbing Pipe Video
Mike shows us what you could be drinking when you have sediment build up in a galvanized pipe in the water system 🤢
He explains how this could be affecting your property and potentially bringing harsh sediments into your drinking water and harm your property.
Would you want to drink water from a piping system like this?
Is Galvanized Pipe Good for Plumbing?
These pipes were amazing back in the day, but now, after years of abuse, they deteriorate, and cause many issues. The good news is there are telltale signs of bad galvanized pipes, and you should consider them to make sure your water quality remains good:
1. Change in the Color of Water
If the water coming out of your taps appears brown or kind of yellowish, galvanized pipes might be going bad. This happens because corrosion from the inside of the pipes is mixing with the water supply. The issue is often most noticeable when the water has been sitting in the pipes for a while, like in the morning or after a period of inactivity.
The problem doesn’t stop here! Discolored water can also stain sinks, bathtubs, toilets, and laundry.
2. Low Water Pressure
As galvanized pipes corrode from the inside, rust and mineral deposits buildup and shrinks the interior diameter of the pipes. This buildup lowers water flow in faucets and showers throughout your property, especially on upper floors.
In some cases, you may also witness the water pressure going up or down in different faucets or fixtures in your home.
3. Rust on Pipes
The layer of zinc on galvanized plumbing pipes wears off with time, and then rust forms on the outside. If you see flakes on the exposed sections of your plumbing, it’s a sign that the pipes may soon begin leaking.
In addition to rust, you might see pitting or scaling on the pipe surface, and that is a clear indication that the zinc layer is no longer there.
4. Leaks
Leakage from damaged galvanized pipes starts as small drips, which are often found near joints where the pipes are most likely to rust. Other signs include damp spots on:
- Walls
- Ceilings
- Floors
Apart from that, you may also see mold or mildew growing in your property.
5. Metallic Taste or Odor in Water
If your tap water tastes or smells kind of funny, metallic to be precise, this may mean that the galvanized pipe has gone bad and is leaching metal particles into the water. This is especially concerning if the pipes contain lead; a big NO NO for your health.
You might notice that your water feels “harder” or that soap doesn’t lather as well.
When Should Galvanized Pipes Be Replaced?
If you notice a change in the color of water, low pressure, rust on pipes, leaks, or a metallic taste of water, your galvanized plumbing pipe is no longer safe to provide you with drinkable water, and you should replace them as soon as possible. Â
Also, if your property is very old and still has the original plumbing, it’s likely that the pipes are galvanized and nearing the end of their useful life. Even if you don’t face any plumbing problems, the age of the pipes alone is enough reason to replace them soon. It’s better to be safe than sorry, guys!
What Is a Cheap Alternative To Galvanized Pipe?
There are new materials that last longer and perform better than a galvanized plumbing pipe:
PEX
PEX is one of the most affordable piping materials available. Its lower material cost and ease of installation (fewer fittings)) make it an excellent choice for those on a budget.
Despite its low cost, PEX is tough, resistant to corrosion, and can work for 40-50 years.
PVC
PVC’s lightweight material (for DWV applications) is also ideal for your potable water supply. It does not corrode and the maintenance cost is on the very low end side.
CPVC Pipes
Although CPVC is a bit more costly than PVC, it is still cheaper than copper and galvanized steel for both hot and cold water lines. It is also very light and is pretty easy to install. This way, you save a lot of $$$ on labor costs. Like PVC and PEX, the CPVC pipes don’t rust.
Conclusion
Choosing the right plumber to diagnose and replace your galvanized plumbing pipes is a very important step in making sure your drinking water is safe and ensuring long-term peace of mind. A skilled plumber will not only accurately identify the issues within your aging pipes but will also guide you through selecting the best modern alternatives, like PEX, copper, or CPVC, according to your budget.
The decision to replace your galvanized pipes isn’t just about fixing a problem—it’s an investment in the value of your property for a more reliable and durable plumbing system. Don’t wait for the signs of corrosion to escalate—take proactive steps today and enjoy the benefits of a modern, worry-free plumbing system.