Pipe Corrosion: Causes and Solutions

Corroded pipes are an unseen challenge lurking in many homes and buildings. Corrosion is a hidden menace that can lead to significant plumbing issues if not addressed promptly. Use this guide to help you understand the signs of corroded pipes, what causes corrosion, and what you can do about it, including seeking help from a corroded pipe repair specialist.

Signs of Pipe Corrosion

Keep an eye out for these developing signs of rust in your water pipes:

• Discolored water: When pipes corrode from the inside out, they release tiny rust particles into the water. This causes noticeable discoloration, making your water a reddish or brownish hue.
• Bad taste or smell: Corroded pipes can also cause the water to have an unpleasant metallic taste or smell, whether the water is discolored or not.
• Low water pressure: A buildup of rust inside the pipes reduces the inner circumference, forcing water through an increasingly smaller and smaller space. As the flow decreases, so does the water pressure.
• Leaky pipes: If you don’t act on the early signs of corroded plumbing, the rust may eat away at your pipes until they spring a leak. This wastes water, drives up your water bills, and causes property damage.

What Causes Pipes to Corrode?

Not all causes of pipe corrosion are easy to spot, so work with a plumber to pinpoint the reason behind your rusty plumbing. Some possibilities include:

• Low pH: A pH imbalance can make your water acidic, speeding up corrosion. This highlights the importance of regular water quality checks.
• Oxidation: High levels of dissolved oxygen in the water may oxidize the pipes, forming rust. This results from a chemical reaction that occurs when iron reacts with oxygen in the presence of water.
• Hard water: The term “hard” refers to water rich in minerals like calcium and magnesium. Hard water can cause many problems, including accelerated pipe corrosion.
• Bacteria: Microbiologically influenced corrosion (MIC) may lead to premature pipe failure. This type of corrosion is brought about by microorganisms in your water, including sulfate or iron bacteria.
• Chemical drain cleaners: If you have a stubborn plumbing clog, you’re better off calling a professional than pouring corrosive chemicals down the drain.

What to Do If You Think You Have Corroded Pipes

If you notice any of the above signs, schedule a pipe inspection with a repiping specialist as soon as possible. An expert can determine the extent of the corrosion. In some cases, it may be possible to clean your pipes and remove the rust. In more severe cases, your plumber may recommend repiping to ensure the system is safe, efficient, and up to code.

Speak with a Repiping Specialist

At Mike Counsil Plumbing, we’ve been finding solutions quickly and cost-effectively since 1994. As a family-owned company with a dedicated team of plumbers, we offer exceptional customer service tailored to our clients in San Jose, Mountain View, and the surrounding South Bay area. With our ability to diagnose, repair, and replace corroded pipes, you can trust us to keep your plumbing in good shape. Don’t let rusty pipes ruin your day—contact us at 408-916-1226 to speak with a repiping specialist and discover the best services available to you.