The Problem with Galvanized Pipes

If you live in an older home, you have probably changed some things.  The furnace, the refrigerator, the stove, the wall paper, etc….  Have you thought about swapping out your plumbing?  Many homes built before the 1960’s have galvanized plumbing systems.  Galvanized pipes are steel pipes covered with a layer of zinc.  Like other aspects of older homes, this piping should be replaced with newer plastic PVC pipes.

Why is it so important to change out your galvanized pipes?  

Galvanized pipes can corrode and become clogged.  Think of an artery- when an artery is clogged it gets thinner and it is harder for blood to pass through.  A corroded galvanized pipe does not offer very much space for water to pass through meaning that the water pressure can be weak.  Also, galvanized pipes can become totally blocked very easily, which means you need to be very cautious about what your put down your sink drain or garbage disposal.

Overall, older galvanized pipes are not as efficient as newer pipes and they are more prone to damage.  Sometimes, but rarely, there is a danger of lead in galvanized plumbing as well.   If you would like to learn more about galvanized plumbing, check out this article from DC Water and Sewer Authority, where some of this information came from.

Questions about your residential plumbing, or interested in learning more about different residential plumbing services?  Contact FLAME!