If you’re like most homeowners, you probably don’t think about your plumbing system very often. You turn on the faucet, and water comes out. Simple, right? But what if you have polybutylene pipes in your home? These pipes, which were popular in the 1980s and 1990s, have a bad reputation for failing and causing significant water damage. At Five Star Plumbing, a plumber in Harford county, we’ve had our fair share of replacing polybutylene pipe and know how frustrating they can be. Here are a couple signs you should replace your polybutylene pipes.
Wear and Tear
The first sign is visible wear and tear on your pipes. If you see cracks, leaks, or signs of corrosion, it’s a clear indication that your pipes are deteriorating quickly. Polybutylene pipes can become brittle over time, making them more likely to fail. If this is the case, we highly recommend that you replace your polybutylene pipes.
Low Water Pressure
Another sign that your pipes are failing is low water pressure throughout your home. This is because the pipes can become clogged with mineral buildup as they deteriorate, leading to reduced water flow. If you’re experiencing low water pressure, it’s a good idea to have a plumber inspect your pipes to determine if they need to be replaced.
Dirty/Smelly Water
Discolored or smelly water is another sign of corrosion in your pipes. Polybutylene pipes are known for corroding quickly, which can lead to discoloration and unpleasant odors. If you notice a change in your water’s appearance or smell, it’s essential to have your pipes inspected as soon as possible.
Water Leaks
Water leaks are a common issue with failing polybutylene pipes. If you’re experiencing frequent water leaks in your home, it could be a sign that your pipes are breaking or cracking. This can lead to significant water damage and costly repairs. If you notice any water leaks, it’s crucial to have them repaired immediately and to consider replacing your polybutylene pipes to prevent future leaks.
Other factors To Consider
Age of your Home
The age of your home can also indicate whether you have polybutylene pipes. If your home was built between the late 1970s and early 1990s, there’s a good chance that it has polybutylene pipes. These pipes were widely used during this time, but they have since fallen out of favor due to their failure rate. If you’re unsure about the age or type of pipes in your home, it’s a good idea to consult with a plumber.
Insurance
If you’re having trouble getting insurance or your rates are higher than usual, it could be due to your plumbing system. Some insurance companies will not cover homes with polybutylene pipes due to their high failure rate. If you’re having difficulty getting coverage or your rates are higher than usual, it’s worth considering replacing your pipes.
Too Many Repairs
Frequent plumbing repairs can also be a sign that your polybutylene pipes are failing. Repairs can be costly, and if you’re having to make them frequently, it might be time to consider a complete replacement. A plumber can help you determine whether it’s more cost-effective to replace your pipes or continue making repairs.
In conclusion, polybutylene pipes have a reputation for failing quickly and causing significant water damage. If you have polybutylene pipes in your home, it’s essential to watch out for signs of wear and tear, low water pressure, discolored or smelly water, water leaks, and frequent repairs. If you notice any of these signs, it’s crucial to have your pipes inspected by a professional plumber to determine if you need to replace your polybutylene pipes. While replacing your pipes can be costly, it’s an investment in the safety and reliability of your home’s plumbing system. A professional plumber can provide you with an estimate of the cost and help you determine the best course of action for your home.
Do you need to install new Polybutylene Pipes?
Five-Star Plumbing has been proudly serving the Harford county and Baltimore county area for over 30 years.We offer many different services, including well pump services, water treatment, plumbing repair and installation, outdoor plumbing services, drain cleaning, and water heater services.Our technicians will provide you with a flat rate fee up front so you know exactly what to expect. No hidden fees. We’ll explain what we plan to do and why we plan to do it, so you know exactly what’s going on.
Call us today at 410-836-0118 to schedule an appointment! You can also submit an online form at plumber-baltimore.com