Preventing Future Plumbing Problems After a Repipe

In this brief article brought to you by Rooter Guard, we offer some guidance on how to protect your new pipes and make sure they deliver decades of hassle-free service.

Understanding What Your New Pipes Need (and Fear)

Modern repiping typically uses superior materials like PEX, copper, or CPVC, but even these materials have vulnerabilities that proper care addresses. So, keep these in mind:

• Water pressure over 80 PSI will stress any plumbing system as it forces accelerates wear and creates water hammer that literally shakes pipes loose. Pressure regulation is crucial.
• Water chemistry is a thing, and highly acidic or alkaline water accelerates corrosion in copper systems. Hard water, meanwhile, creates scale buildup that narrows pipe diameter and reduces efficiency. Whole-house water filtration helps.
• Temperature extremes challenge pipes in different ways. Freezing obviously threatens any water line, but excessive heat exposure can also reduce material lifespan. Insulation and thermostat management are key.
• Chemical exposures from inappropriate drain cleaners or other harsh substances damage pipes, seals, and connections. Opt for vinegar and hot water for cleaning, or hire professional drain cleaning instead.

Understanding these basic facts sets the foundation, but let’s dive deeper into some habits to preserve the integrity of the pipes, too.

Daily Habits That Preserve Plumbing Integrity

The difference between pipes lasting 30 years versus decades more often comes down to how homeowners treat them day-to-day. Small behavioral changes compound over decades into dramatically different outcomes.

• Moderate Water Pressure: While pressure regulators do the heavy lifting, it’s in your interest to moderate pressure at individual fixtures by not opening valves fully unless necessary. Opening valves to around 3/4 of the way, for instance, typically provides adequate flow while reducing stress.
• Avoid Chemical Cleaners: Harsh chemical products damage seals, corrode connections, and provide no benefits that mechanical clearing or enzymatic cleaners can’t deliver more safely.
• Address Leaks ASAP: These don’t heal like wounds; they only get worse with time. Catching and repairing these issues early prevents the full-blown failures that damage pipes and structures.
• Mind the Drains: Greasy, starchy, hard, and fibrous foods as well as non-biodegradable items create clogs. Your drains are NOT a trash bin.

While these habits reduce the risk of issues, and the risk of them turning into bigger problems, routine maintenance is non-negotiable and can catch issues so you can nip them in the bud.

Preventive Maintenance Routines

Perhaps the most important maintenance item is to schedule biennial inspections. A plumber in La Canada Flintridge can examine accessible pipes, connections, and fixtures to identify developing leaks, corrosion, and stress on plumbing components.

Periodic pressure testing, water heater maintenance, drain cleaning, and water quality testing are also important. The team at Rooter Guard is proud to offer these maintenance services and more.

When to Call a Plumber

Accidental and incidental damage are practically inevitable, and timely response is the key to keeping repair costs within budget. Call Rooter Guard for plumbing repair service if you notice:

• Unexplained spike in water bills
• Drastic pressure changes
• Leaking fixtures or appliances
• Banging, whistling, or rattling noise from plumbing
• Discolored or murky water
• Water stains on walls, or peeling paint or bubbling wallpaper
• Mold and mildew growth
• Stubborn smell of sewage indoors and/or outdoors
• Patches of overly lush or green grass in the yard
• Uninvited guests (pests and rodents)

Our dedicated office team and plumbers are always ready to take your call or message. Contact us today to get in touch!