How Repiping Can Improve Water Quality in Your Arizona Home
TL;DR: Old plumbing in Arizona homes, especially from before 1979, often deteriorates and affects water quality. Repiping with modern materials like PEX or copper improves water taste, pressure, and safety by removing contaminants and reducing maintenance costs. It also extends the lifespan of household appliances and offers health benefits by eliminating harmful substances. For a smooth repiping experience and better water quality, contact Arizona Integrity Plumbing.
Nothing hits the spot quite as good as a refreshing glass of cold water during a hot summer’s day in Arizona. But sometimes, when Arizonans turn on the tap, they get slightly discolored and odd-tasting water. This is usually due to the house’s old plumbing system.
Many of the houses in Arizona are from before 1979, and their pipes are just as old. Back then, they didn’t use the best materials, and many of the pipes were made from materials that weren’t that durable and reliable. These pipes are now deteriorating due to sub-par materials and age. In the process, they are worsening the water quality in many Arizona homes.
Homeowners can change this by repiping their homes. New pipes are made out of much better materials that don’t affect the water that runs through them. They also last longer and improve the performance of the plumbing system. Let’s look at how repiping can improve water quality in your Arizona home.
Water Quality Issues Caused By Old Pipes
Older plumbing systems often feature materials like galvanized steel and polybutylene, which are now outdated and problematic. In the 1960s, it was common to use galvanized steel pipes. But they can quickly corrode, leading to rust buildup inside the pipes. Rusty and corroded pipes are weaker and have poor structural integrity. They also release rust particles into your water supply.
On the other hand, polybutylene pipes used extensively from the 1970s to the mid-1990s are prone to chemical reactions with chlorine and other water disinfectants. These reactions can make pipes brittle and susceptible to breakage. Aging pipes are also more likely to develop other problems as well, which can result in water damage to your property. Some of the signs that the pipes in your house are ready for replacement include:
- Multiple and frequent leaks.
- Discolored water with an odd smell.
- Loud noises when the water is on.
- Visible corroded patches on the pipes.
- Noticeable sediment buildup in the water.
- Low water pressure for no conceivable reason.
Benefits of Repiping Your Home
Repiping your entire plumbing system is a significant undertaking, but it gives you long-term results. Once you update your pipes, you can forget all the issues plaguing your old plumbing system. The benefits of repiping are immediately apparent. You’ll notice improved water quality, pressure, and overall plumbing reliability. It’s a one-time project that leaves your home with an efficient and modern plumbing system with many advantages.
Removal of Contaminants
Modern piping materials like PEX and copper are more durable and long-lasting than older pipe materials. These new pipes can resist corrosion and not leach particles or rust into your water supply. Replacing outdated pipes effectively eliminates the water impurities at their source.
This will significantly improve your drinking water’s taste, smell, and safety, which is important for homeowners with health concerns. Clean water supports overall well-being and reduces the risk of waterborne illnesses, making repiping a smart choice for health-conscious homeowners.
Increased Water Flow and Pressure
New pipes can greatly improve water flow and pressure throughout your home. Old pipes can easily clog due to mineral deposits and corrosion, restricting water flow and reducing pressure. This makes everyday tasks that require water inconvenient and very time-consuming.
With new plumbing, water flows more freely, providing consistent and strong pressure. This improvement makes daily routines more efficient and helps household appliances operate more effectively. The increase in water flow and pressure contributes to more comfortable living.
Reduction in Maintenance and Repair Costs
Old pipes frequently leak, burst, and have other issues that constantly need repair. To fix these problems, you need to make regular calls to your plumber, which can add up in costs. Temporary fixes offer only short-term relief, meaning you face recurring expenses and disruptions.
By repiping, you address the root cause of these issues. Modern pipes are more resistant to leaks and bursts, minimizing the need for frequent repairs. The only ongoing expense will be routine maintenance checks, which are far less frequent and less costly than emergency repairs. Additionally, the longevity of new pipes extends the lifespan of your entire plumbing system, further increasing your investment’s value.
Appliance Longevity
Old pipes often contain rust and sediment that can accumulate in your plumbing system. This buildup affects water quality but also puts extra strain on the appliances you use daily, such as:
- Water heaters
- Dishwashers
- Washing machines
- Fridges with ice makers connected to the water supply
When you remove these contaminants by repiping, the water that flows through these appliances becomes cleaner, reducing wear and damage. Water heaters, for example, benefit significantly because sediment buildup can cause them to work harder, leading to premature failure. Similarly, dishwashers and washing machines operate more efficiently with clean water, which helps them perform better and last longer.
Health Benefits
Improving your home’s water quality through repiping also has direct health benefits. Old pipes can leach harmful substances like lead and rust into your water. These contaminants pose health risks, particularly to more vulnerable groups of people.
Everyone needs clean, contaminant-free water for drinking, cooking, and bathing. By repiping your home, you effectively eliminate the risk of exposure to these harmful substances, contributing to better overall health for your family. Children, in particular, benefit from improved water quality because they are still developing and are more susceptible to toxins. The elderly, who are generally more frail, also stand to gain from a cleaner water supply.
The Repiping Process: What to Expect
Replacing every old pipe in your home with a new one is a significant and complicated undertaking you should not do yourself. Working with an experienced repiping company will make the entire process uncomplicated and stress-free. Here is what you can expect:
- Initial Consultation and Assessment: A professional will visit your home to evaluate the current plumbing system and determine the scope of work needed. They will look for any signs or issues that call for repiping and, based on their findings, give the homeowner a detailed repiping plan.
- Removal of Old Pipes: Once the plan is in place, the removal of old pipes begins. This phase typically takes one to two days, depending on the size of your home and the complexity of the existing plumbing system. During this time, technicians will cut and remove sections of old piping, trying not to disrupt your daily activities.
- Installing New Pipes: After the old pipes are removed, new pipes are installed. This process can last a few days to a full week, depending on the home’s size and the types of materials used. Homeowners should prepare for some noise and limited access to some parts of their house. Technicians will carefully install the new piping, secure connections, and ensure that everything meets local building codes.
- Post-Installation: Technicians will check for leaks, proper water pressure, and overall performance. Once testing is complete, they will perform a thorough clean-up, removing any debris and restoring your home to its original condition. A final inspection will confirm that the new piping system operates correctly and efficiently, providing reliable plumbing.
Get New Pipes For Better Water Quality
Old plumbing pipes made from sub-par materials contribute to poor water quality in your Arizona home. They can also damage household appliances and affect your health. Installing new pipes will eliminate these issues and leave you with clean, refreshing, and safe water to drink.
The first step is finding a reliable repiping company, and Arizona Integrity Plumbing is always at your disposal, making the process as convenient as possible. With our expertise in legal guidelines and regulations, we offer free, no-obligation quotes and provide quick, reliable repairs. Our professional service minimizes disruption to your daily routine and leaves you with a better plumbing system and clean water, ensuring your comfort and peace of mind.
If you’re ready to improve your home’s water quality and protect your appliances, call us today for a consultation!
