Common Causes of Corroded Pipes in Miami

Copper pipe corrosion can be caused by a range of environmental and chemical elements. Here are some of the most common causes homeowners in Miami should be aware of:

• Excess Chlorine in the Tap Water
  Chlorine is regularly added to municipal water supplies to purify and eliminate harmful microbes. However, excessive chlorine can have a corroding effect on copper piping. Over time, this can lead to the gradual deterioration of the pipe linings, resulting in pinhole leaks and discolored water.
• Corrosion from Rust Inside the Hot Water Tank
  Rust and sediment buildup inside your hot water tank can invade the plumbing system, contributing to the corrosion of copper pipes. This is especially common in aging hot water tanks that haven’t been periodically maintained or flushed. The presence of rust fragments speeds up the corrosion process, deteriorating the pipes from the inside out.
• High Water Acidity (Low pH Levels)
  Low-pH water can be especially harmful to copper pipes. Acidic water slowly corrodes the copper, leading to the development of pinhole leaks and, ultimately, pipe failure. Properties in the Miami area with well water are especially vulnerable for this issue, as well water can vary significantly in acidity.
• Bacterial Growth in the Water Supply or Soil
  Certain microorganisms found in the water or soil can lead to the corrosion of copper pipes. These bacteria can create a bacterial coating inside the pipes that hastens the corrosion process. Homes with buried copper pipes or those situated in areas with contaminated soil may experience this issue more often.

How to Fix Copper Pipe Corrosion

If you’re experiencing signs of corrosion, such as brown water, reduced water pressure, or constant leaks, it’s crucial to fix the issue promptly to stop further problems. Here are some approaches to consider:

1. Replacing Pipes
   For small areas of corrosion or isolated leaks, replacing the faulty pipe section may be sufficient. However, this is typically a temporary solution, as the main reasons for corrosion may keep affecting the rest of the plumbing.
2. Complete Repipe
   For homes with severe corrosion or outdated pipe systems, a full repipe is the most reliable solution. Replacing the whole plumbing system with high-quality materials like US-made copper pipes or Uponor PEX will remove existing corrosion and prevent future complications. Repipe Specialists offers comprehensive repiping services in Miami, with top-grade materials to guarantee a long-lasting, efficient plumbing system.

Stopping Corrosion in Copper Piping

Avoiding corrosion in copper piping needs proactive maintenance and, in some cases, moving to more corrosion-resistant materials. Here are some steps to fix corroded pipes in Miami homes:

• Add Water Filtration
  Installing a water softener or a water filtration system can help reduce the levels of chlorine and other harmful substances in your household water. This can greatly extend the longevity of your copper pipes by cutting down the factors that contribute to corrosion.
• Maintaining Your Water Heater
  Regular heater flushing once a year to remove rust and sediment buildup can stop these particles from flowing into your water pipes and causing corrosion. Regular maintenance also helps boost the effectiveness and longevity of your water heater.
• Repiping as an Option
  If your home’s water pipes is aging or you’ve dealt with frequent water leaks due to corrosion, it may be time to explore a repiping option. Replacing your existing copper pipes with a more durable piping like flexible PEX piping can provide a lasting solution to corrosion problems.