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Tips for Preventing Pipe Corrosion

Posted on September 16, 2022 | Repiping Services | by

Pipe Corrosion Boulder CO

How to Prevent Pipe Corrosion

  • Install water softener
  • Protective pipe linings
  • Expoxy coatings
  • Pipe maintenance
  • Keep pipes stable

Plumbing systems are meant to last, and metal is usually the most durable option for material. The only problem with metal pipes is that they can begin to rust if exposed to corrosive materials in the water.

Minerals and heavy metals in the water can create a chemical reaction that makes corrosion begin. Any damage to the metal from intruding tree roots or shifting dirt underground can also cause rust. Dirty pipes with a film of mineral deposits, called scale, narrow the waterway and can begin to corrode the metal as the sediments build up.

Rust from corrosion can eat away metal pipes until leaks, and other plumbing issues occur. Not only does corrosion destroy pipes, it can also damage expensive plumbing fixtures such as water heaters. In this blog post, learn three ways that homeowners can protect their plumbing from corrosion.

Coatings and Protective Linings

Protective Pipes

The best way to protect pipes from the effects of corrosion is the reinforce the metal with a protective coating or linings. One example of protective treatment for pipes is galvanizing steel or iron by adding a layer of zinc. The layer of zinc protects the iron or steel from corroding.
Using sealants to insulate the pipes inside can also help keep the water clean and safe by reducing cracks in the plumbing where bacteria could grow. An epoxy coating can also be applied to the pipes. Epoxy is used as an alternative to repiping when corrosion has already begun.
The benefits of using epoxy to reinforce the pipes include preventing corrosion and lowering utility costs by insulating the pipes. Insulating the pipes helps the water maintain its temperature as it travels from the hot water heater to the tap.
Install a Water Softener
Water Softener Installation Boulder CO
One of the leading causes of premature pipe corrosion is hard water. All water contains natural minerals such as magnesium and calcium. However, an excess of minerals in the water can lead to problems for the plumbing. Mineral scale is a hard layer of mineral deposits that stick to plumbing appliances and the inside of pipes.

When water has an overly high content of minerals, it is called hard water. Mineral scale makes it hard to keep plumbing fixtures clean. It can even reduce water pressure as it causes waterways to narrow. Over time, the mineral scale can lead to corrosion of the pipes.

Installing a whole home water softener is the best way to fix hard water. One can install a water softener on the main water line to filter all of the home’s water. Water softeners contain negatively charged resin beads that attract the positively charged molecules of minerals and filter them out. Water softeners help improve plumbing systems' longevity and have many other benefits.

Schedule Plumbing Maintenance

The best thing that homeowners can do for their plumbing systems is to schedule regular plumbing maintenance with a professional plumber. During plumbing maintenance appointments, the plumber can inspect the plumbing for signs of damage or parts that need to be replaced. Plumbers know the signs of corroded water pipes that homeowners might not notice.

Fixing small problems early on can prevent them from turning into larger problems. Water heater maintenance is an important part of plumbing maintenance for homeowners. The natural minerals found in water can separate into solid sediment in the water heater tank. The water heater tank needs to be dumped and cleaned annually to prevent corrosion from the sediment.

Homeowners should always trust a fully licensed and insured professional with plumbing maintenance and repairs. An experienced plumber will be able to offer homeowners solutions for how to optimize their plumbing system for longevity and performance. Maintenance saves homeowners money in the long run by keeping the plumbing running smoothly.