If you live in an older home in Texas, specifically one built before 1970, you may have heard the term “galvanized” used to describe your plumbing. Galvanized pipes are steel pipes covered with a protective layer of zinc.

Once a popular choice for newly constructed homes, these pipes were eventually discontinued when it was discovered the zinc coating erodes over time. As the outer layer wears away, corrosion can build up on the inside walls, creating the potential for harmful substances to affect your home’s water supply.

If you live in an old home, our licensed plumbers are going to explain why galvanized pipes are so dangerous and how to schedule an appointment to replace the service lines.

Why are galvanized pipes dangerous?

Many galvanized pipes were built in the 1950’s and 1960’s with lead service lines, putting them at risk of releasing lead as they corrode. When lead is released from the walls of the pipes, it can contaminate your home’s water supply. As you know, ingesting lead can be very dangerous for your family.

While lead was no longer used in the service lines as of the 1960’s, galvanized pipes were still used as late as 1990. Even without the lead hazard, the corrosion caused by these pipes could build up in your water supply.

What to do if your home has galvanized pipes

The only way to fully ensure lead does not move from your plumbing into your water supply is to completely replace your galvanized pipes and lead service lines.

You can determine whether your home has galvanized pipes by finding where your piping enters the home and scratching the pipe. If the pipe is copper, the pipe will have the look of a copper penny. If the pipe is galvanized steel, the scratched area will be silver-gray in color and have threads.

If the pipe is not copper or galvanized, it is likely a plastic PVC or PEX pipe. PVC is typically white and PEX is typically blue, red or white in color. Another material, polybutylene pipe, could be black.

If you are having trouble determining what type of pipe you have, or you suspect your pipes may need to be replaced, call our affordable plumbers for a free home evaluation!

Why you can’t partially replace lead service lines

Even after removing the source of lead (such as the lead service lines and fixtures), there’s no guarantee of safety. The only way to eliminate the risk of lead in your drinking water is to fully replace your galvanized plumbing. If you live in an older rental property, contact your property manager or landlord to discuss the issue.

If you own a home with galvanized plumbing, call to book an appointment with the AAA AUGER expert plumbers for a solution today.

 

 

Photo Credit: Harsha K R