How to Tell if Your Plumbing Pipes Are Worn Out

Between each faucet, shower, toilet, drain, and plumbing fixture, your home’s plumbing system gets used a generous amount each day (for years on end). Eventually, corrosion and leaks will begin to form, costing you money in high water bills and future repairs. It’s important to find worn out plumbing early, and here’s what you should look for:

Things to Know Beforehand

• As the years go by, plumbing can begin to break down, leak, or burst.
• Eroded plumbing and leaks can exist within your home, but can remain unnoticed for extended periods of time. Unknown plumbing problems like this can cost you more money as time goes on.
• Have your plumbing and fixtures inspected annually, especially if your home is over 50 years of age.
• Annual inspections and routine maintenance can save you thousands by preventing emergency plumbing replacements.

Keep an Eye Out

While you should have your plumbing inspected annually, you should always keep an eye out for things that look suspicious. Stay on the lookout for brown stains on walls, ceilings, and any surfaces below plumbing fixtures. These stains could reveal hidden leaks and areas of high moisture that need to be addressed.

What Color is Your Water?

The next time you fill your bathtub or a cup of water from the tap, take a look at the color of the water. If there is a brown or yellowish tint (especially after being away for the weekend), this could be a sign of rust and decay within the pipes. Seeing discolored water is a sign that you should have a plumber come to inspect your home’s pipes.

Rain Drop, Drip Drop

After taking a shower or washing your hands, it’s common that a few drops of water will drip out of the faucet. However, water shouldn’t drip out 10 minutes after using the faucet. Even if the drip is occurring at an extremely slow rate, this leaky faucet should be fixed before it worsens.

Plumbing is designed to last for a very long time — however, leaks, corrosion, and buildup can cause your pipes to become worn out. For those who are in need of plumbing repair or replacement, contact Len The Plumber. If you’re looking for a reliable plumber, check to see if you live in one of our many service areas!