Repair vs. Replace: What Your Water Line Needs

When To Call For Water Line Replacements or Repairs

The water line is vital to a home’s plumbing system, delivering clean, fresh water to the faucets and appliances so families can safely use and consume water. However, like all home systems, water lines can deteriorate over time due to age, corrosion, or damage.

Knowing when to repair or replace the water line is crucial to maintaining a safe and efficient plumbing system. Here are the key signs that it may be time for Brookhaven homeowners to repair or replace the water line and what they should do if they notice any of these issues.

Rust and Corrosion

Rust and corrosion are common in older water lines and can lead to significant issues if not repaired quickly. Corroded pipes not only compromise the integrity of the plumbing system but also impact the water quality in a home.

When determining if there is corrosion in their pipes, homeowners should watch for these signs:

• Discolored Water: If the water appears brown, orange, or cloudy, it may be due to rust inside the pipes.
• Strange Taste or Smell: Corrosion can introduce metallic or unpleasant tastes and odors to the water supply.
• Poor or Worsening Water Pressure: Corroded pipes can restrict water flow, leading to noticeable drops in water pressure.

If homeowners notice these signs, they should call a professional plumber. Depending on the severity of the corrosion, the affected pipes may need to be replaced to restore water quality and pressure.

Leaks

A leaking water line clearly indicates something is wrong with the pipes and cannot be ignored by homeowners. While some leaks may be repairable, extensive damage or aging pipes may require a full replacement.

There are numerous signs of water line leaks that homeowners should watch for, including:

• Higher Water Bills: An unexplained spike in the water bill could mean a household has a hidden leak, wasting water.
• Wet Patches on the Lawn or Floor: Soggy spots on the lawn, even during dry weather, or damp areas inside the home can point to a leaking water line.
• Poor or Worsening Water Pressure: Similar to corrosion, leaks can cause water pressure to drop as water escapes the system.

If homeowners suspect a leak, they should contact a professional plumber immediately. Experts can inspect the water line to determine whether a repair or replacement is necessary.

Old Age

Unfortunately, water lines don’t last forever. Exactly how long they last largely depends on the material they’re made from. In general, plumbers use the following guide:

• Galvanized Steel Pipes: Typically last 40-50 years.
• Copper Pipes: Can last 50-70 years.
• PVC Pipes: Often last 50+ years, but external factors can shorten their lifespan.

Homeowners should prepare for water line replacements if they start to see signs of aging. Some key signs to watch for are:

• If the home’s pipes are older than 40-60 years, it’s wise to have them inspected by a professional plumber.
• Older pipes are more prone to leaks, corrosion, and other failures that can lead to costly repairs or property damage.

Repiping the home is a significant investment. Still, it can save property owners money in the long run by preventing water damage and improving the efficiency of their plumbing system.

About The Plumbers Guild

The Plumbers Guild has been providing quality plumbing services to the Brookhaven area since 2013. They offer flat-rate pricing and easy scheduling to ensure outstanding customer service. Call them today for water line repairs and repipe services in Brookhaven, GA.

Contact Information:

The Plumbers Guild

Atlanta, GA 30329
United States

Corey Wimpey
(404) 948-6567
https://atlantaplumbersguild.com/