Corrosion Can Damage Pipes and Water Heaters in Solana Beach

Water leaks are a common cause of water damage in Solana Beach, CA. In a lot of cases, a damaged pipe is responsible for the leak. Water pipes can become damaged in many ways.

Corrosion is one of the ways a metal water pipe can become damaged and fail. It’s a natural process that occurs when the metal a pipe is made from has an electrochemical reaction with water, oxygen, salt, and other materials in the surrounding environment. This reaction causes the metal to become weakened and damaged in a process called corrosion. Plumbing pipes made from iron, steel, copper, and lead are particularly susceptible to corrosion-related damage.

What Causes Corroded Pipes in Solana Beach?

Corrosion can result from many factors, including:

Environmental conditions. Some of the environmental conditions that can contribute to corrosion include temperature, humidity, UV levels, and exposure to chemicals or pollutants. Salt can be an issue for homes and businesses located near the ocean.

Oxygen and other dissolved gasses. Rust occurs when a metal reacts with oxygen. It’s one of the most common types of corrosion in metal pipes.

Water chemistry. The chemical composition of the water flowing through your home could be causing corrosion to your pipes. High levels of acidity (low pH) or alkalinity (high pH) can accelerate the rate of corrosion.

Galvanic corrosion. Galvanic corrosion results from an electrochemical reaction between different metals. For instance, galvanic corrosion can occur if a copper pipe is connected to a steel pipe. To prevent galvanic corrosion, the two metals need to be insulated from each other.

Microbial corrosion. Microorganisms in your pipes can release waste and other byproducts into the water. This material can cause corrosion as it flows through the pipes.

Your Pipes May Be Experiencing Corrosion

Corrosion in metal pipes occurs over a long time. You may not know your pipes are suffering from corrosion until it’s too late. Here are some of the signs that your pipes are being damaged by corrosion:

• Pinhole water leaks
• Particulates in your water
• Discolored water
• Low water pressure due to corrosion-related clogs
• Water with a metallic taste or odor
• Loose or damaged connections
• Hairline cracks in pipes
• Water stains, spots, or other damage
• Mold growth near plumbing pipes due to leaking water

If you’ve noticed any of these warning signs, it’s recommended that you schedule a visit from a Solana Beach plumber as soon as possible.

Water Heaters Are Also Affected by Corrosion

Corrosion can greatly affect the useful lifespan of a water heater. In water heaters, corrosion is typically caused by rust and other sediments in the water. These materials settle in the tank and other water heater components, accelerating the rate of corrosion.

Water heater corrosion could be the reason you’re experiencing:

• Water isn’t getting as hot as it used to
• Low hot water supply
• Poor hot water quality
• Knocks and other strange sounds coming from your water heater.

Annually flushing your water heater helps prevent the buildup of sediments and other materials that can lead to corrosion. This can extend the life of your water heater by several years.

Dependable, Affordable Plumbing Repairs in Solana Beach

Corrosion can be hard on your pipes, especially if you live near the ocean. If you live in Solana Beach, CA, and have been noticing the signs of corrosion in your pipes or water heater, give 1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration. We’ve been providing dependable, affordable plumbing services to home and business owners in Solana Beach and surrounding communities. Our team of licensed Solana Beach plumbers have the tools and talent to repair or replace corrosion-damaged pipes and water heaters.

You can contact 1st Choice Plumbing, Flood & Restoration through our website or phone us at 866-437-0205 to schedule a call from a Solana Beach plumbing professional.