Leaking pipes often make you think of water contamination or mould and mildew. But a leaking pipe usually means expensive repairs and potential danger to a structure’s integrity. Read on to learn what causes pipe corrosion in the first place (and how you can prevent it).
1. Water Chemistry
A few factors affect water chemistry. These same factors make water safe or unsafe to drink, but more importantly, cause a leaking pipe.
Corrosion can happen when the pH of water rises too high. pH measures the acidity or basicness of a substance. The higher the acidity, the more wear and tear on any type of pipe.
A high pH can even cause a leaking copper pipe. Neutral water leaves pipes open to increased corrosion rates, too. Aside from pH, oxygen in water also causes corrosion.
Overoxygenated water can lead to rust. Rust thins metal and builds up water impurities. This causes pinhole cracks or increased pressure on pipes.
High temperatures combined with rust can also lead to faster oxidation. Although a copper pipe may not corrode in the same way, built up impurities are still a possible issue.
Erosion Corrosion
Although less chemical in nature, the speed at which your water flows also impacts corrosion. Erosion corrosion occurs in closed-loop piping systems. If water flows too quickly, it eats away at any kind of pipe.
2. Copper Pitting
Even with the integrity of copper piping, particular issues occur. One of the common reasons for a copper pipe leak repair is pitting. Pitting happens for a few different reasons.
The most common cause of copper pitting is a heightened pH. Combine an above-average pH with hot water and you get the second reasons for pitting. Finally, cold water and a high pH also cause pipe breakage or blockage for copper pipes.
Copper piping may not be unbreakable, but it is easy to repair and protect. If internal pitting can be identified early on, you can save yourself an entire system replacement. The best move to take is preventive care before a pipe bursts from pitting.
3. Drain Cleaner
You might even add to your own pipe corrosion by accident. Cheap drain cleaners are not chemically formulated to protect your piping. Instead, their primary focus is to clear blockages.
Although drain cleaners are a household necessity, you need the right kind. Make sure to consult a plumber if you’re unsure. But avoid overusing the wrong cleaner to protect your piping system.
Get Savvy By Preventing Leaking Pipes
Whether your pipes have just burst or you’re now aware of common causes of leaking pipes, it’s time for some savvy decision-making. For preventive care or emergency service, Savvy Plumbing is here to help.
We can help you with advice for proper piping system maintenance. We can repair and protect any piping, from copper to PVC to galvanized steel. Contact us today for expert plumbing service.
