Common Causes of Corroded Pipes in Atlanta

Copper pipe corrosion can be caused by a mix of environmental and chemical elements. Here are some of the most common causes homeowners in Atlanta should be familiar with:

• Elevated Chlorine Concentrations in the Water
  Chlorine is regularly added to municipal water supplies to purify and kill harmful bacteria. However, high levels of chlorine can have a damaging impact on copper plumbing. Over time, this can lead to the steady deterioration of the pipe interior, resulting in pinhole leaks and brown water.
• Rust-Induced Corrosion Within the Hot Water Heater
  Rust and sediment buildup inside your water heater can invade the plumbing system, causing the corrosion of copper pipes. This is especially typical in older water heaters that haven’t been regularly maintained or flushed. The presence of rust debris accelerates the corrosion process, damaging the pipes from the inside out.
• High Water Acidity (Low pH Levels)
  Water with a low pH level can be extremely detrimental to copper pipes. Acidic water slowly corrodes the copper, causing the development of pinhole leaks and, in the end, pipe failure. Homes in the Atlanta area with private wells are especially susceptible for this issue, as well systems can differ considerably in pH levels.
• Bacterial Growth in the Water Supply or Soil
  Certain bacteria found in the water system or soil can contribute to the corrosion of copper pipes. These bacteria can form a bacterial coating inside the pipes that hastens the corrosion process. Homes with underground piping or those located in areas with contaminated soil may experience this issue more frequently.

How to Fix Copper Pipe Corrosion

If you’re noticing signs of corrosion, such as brown water, low water pressure, or frequent leaks, it’s vital to handle the issue quickly to prevent further damage. Here are some solutions to look into:

1. Pipe Replacement
   For isolated pipe corrosion issues or isolated leaks, replacing the affected section of pipe may be adequate. However, this is typically a temporary solution, as the underlying causes of corrosion may still impact the rest of the plumbing system.
2. Full Repiping
   For homes with widespread pipe corrosion or outdated pipe systems, a total repipe is the most reliable solution. Replacing all of the pipes with premium materials like high-grade, made-in-the-USA Type-L copper or PEX will eliminate existing corrosion and stop future complications. Repipe Specialists offers all-encompassing repiping services in Atlanta, with top-grade materials to provide a long-lasting, reliable plumbing system.

Stopping Copper Pipe Corrosion

Mitigating copper pipe corrosion needs proactive maintenance and, in some cases, upgrading to more corrosion-resistant materials. Here are some preventive measures to fix corroded pipes in Atlanta homes:

• Install a Water Treatment System
  Using a water softening system or a water filtration system can help decrease the levels of chlorine and other damaging particles in your water supply. This can significantly prolong the life of your copper plumbing system by minimizing the factors that cause corrosion.
• Water Heater Maintenance
  Flushing your water heater annually to clear rust particles and sediment buildup can avoid these particles from entering your plumbing system and triggering corrosion. Ongoing maintenance also helps improve the performance and lifespan of your hot water heater.
• Repiping as an Option
  If your home’s plumbing system is older than two decades or you’ve dealt with several leaks due to pipe damage, it may be time to think about repiping. Swapping out your old copper piping with a more corrosion-proof option like PEX can provide a permanent solution to corrosion problems.