Category Archives: water line replacement

The Pros and Cons of Repairing Water Lines vs. Replacing Them: A Chicago Comparison

a water line repair service performed in chicago.

As a homeowner in Chicago, it’s not uncommon to experience issues with water lines. Over time, pipes can deteriorate due to old age, corrosion, or even tree roots causing damage. When faced with the need for a main water line repair, the decision to repair versus replace can be challenging. There are pros and cons to both options, and it ultimately comes down to what is best for your situation. Here is a side-by-side comparison of repairing vs. replacing water lines in Chicago.

Repairing Water Lines

Pros

  • Cost-effective – repairing a water line is generally cheaper than replacing it
  • Less disruptive – repair work can be finished quickly and doesn’t require extensive digging or excavation
  • Eco-friendly – repairing the existing pipes minimizes waste and is a more sustainable solution

Cons

  • Temporary fix – while repairing a water line can solve the immediate problem, it may not be a long-term solution
  • More vulnerable – repaired pipes can be more susceptible to future leaks or damage due to their age and wear and tear
  • Not always possible – in some instances, a water line may be too damaged and require replacement rather than repair

Replacing Water Lines

Pros

  • Better long-term solution – replacing water lines can provide a permanent solution to issues with deteriorating pipes
  • Improved functionality – new pipes can improve water pressure and flow, making your plumbing system more efficient
  • Increased home value – replacing water lines is a significant upgrade that can increase the value of your home

Cons

  • Expensive – replacing water lines can be costly, and the price can vary depending on the extent of the damage and the complexity of the job
  • Extensive work – replacing water lines may require excavation, which can be disruptive and time-consuming
  • Not always necessary – in some cases, repair work may be sufficient and replacing water lines may not be needed
a water line replacement happening in chicago.

Repairing water lines can be a cost-effective and less disruptive solution, but it may not be a long term fix.

Factors to Consider

When deciding whether to repair or replace your main water line, there are several factors to consider. One important factor is the age of the pipes. If the pipes are relatively new and in good condition, repair work may be sufficient. However, if the pipes are old and corroded, replacement may be necessary. Additionally, the extent of the damage is also a key consideration. Minor leaks or cracks may be repaired, but if the pipes are severely damaged, replacement may be the only option.

Another factor to consider is the location of the pipes. If the pipes are located in a hard-to-reach or inaccessible area, repair work may be the more practical choice. However, if the pipes are in an easily accessible area, replacement may be easier to accomplish. Additionally, the cost of repair vs. replacement is another critical factor. Repair work is generally less expensive than replacement, but depending on the situation, the cost differential may be negligible.

Conclusion

In summary, whether to repair or replace water lines ultimately comes down to the individual situation and needs of the homeowner. Repairing water lines can be a cost-effective and less disruptive solution, but it may not be a long term fix. Replacing water lines can provide a permanent solution, but it can be costly and require extensive work. Homeowners should weigh the pros and cons of each option and speak with a professional plumber to determine the best course of action.

How to Find the Best Water Line Replacement Services in Chicagoland

water line replacement in chicago.

Introduction to Water Line Replacement

When it comes to home maintenance, water line replacement is one of the most important tasks for any homeowner. Water lines are responsible for supplying water to all the fixtures in a home. A main water line replacement is necessary when the pipe has badly degraded due to corrosion, wear, or another reason. Replacing your water line will help keep your home’s plumbing system functioning properly and keeps your property safe from major water damage.

Why You Should Find the Best Water Line Replacement Services

Finding the best professional water line replacement services is important in avoiding costly mistakes and ensuring that the job is done right. It can take special knowledge and experience to properly replace your water lines. A professional plumbing service can provide you with the expertise and know-how to ensure that your water line replacement is done properly and with the best quantity and quality of materials.

Another important factor to consider when replacing your main water line is the cost and duration of the project. Many homeowners often underestimate the cost and time involved in water line replacement. Without the right tools, materials and skills, a homeowner is at risk of doing more harm than good when attempting to do a water line replacement. Hiring a professional plumber that has the experience and knowledge to complete the job quickly and cost-effectively will save you time, money and frustration in the long run.

Things To Consider When Choosing The Best Water Line Replacement Services

When choosing the best water line replacement services for your home, there are several factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind when you are researching your options:

  • Look for companies who are experienced and knowledgeable in water line replacement—ask for references and customer reviews if possible, so you can get an idea of their track record.
  • Ask whether the company offers warranties on their work and materials.
  • Make sure the company has the necessary insurance and license to complete the job safely and legally.
  • Check if the company is affordable and can work with your budget/offer financing.
  • Make sure the company is familiar with local plumbing codes to ensure that the water line replacement is done according to regulations.

water line replacement service in chicago.

Finding the Best Water Line Replacement Services in Chicagoland

If you live in Chicagoland, there are many options for finding the best water line replacement services. Your first step should be to speak with your local plumbers, as they most likely have experience and knowledge in this area. Ask them to provide quotes for the work and inquire about warranties and insurance coverage. You can also discuss their working hours, availability, materials and tools needed for the job.

In addition to speaking to your nearby plumbers, you can search Google for the best water line replacement services in Chicagoland online. Search reviews and ratings for different companies and read customer feedback to get an idea of what experience others have had with them. Be sure to compare pricing, warranties, and availability when comparing different companies.

Finally, if you know friends, family, or neighbors who have recently had their water lines replaced, ask them for their recommendations. They should be able to provide insight into issues such as pricing, customer service, and overall satisfaction with the water line replacement services they used.

Wrapping it Up

Water line replacement is a significant investment for any homeowner. Taking the time to do the necessary research and finding the best water line replacement services in Chicagoland is important in ensuring that the job is completed properly and cost-effectively. Be sure to ask the right questions, read online reviews, and get recommendations from people you trust to find the best water line replacement services to meet your needs.

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Are you in the Chicagoland area and looking to have your main water line replaced? Contact us Below  or call us at 773-599-9181.

Water Line Replacement in Chicago: Who is Responsible?

water line replacement in chicago.

Water Line Maintenance Chicago

Living in the city Chicago can be a struggle—literally and financially. Dealing with water line maintenance and repair can seem like an overwhelming task. After all, you don’t want to make mistakes that will cost you time and money. Understanding who is responsible for water line maintenance and repair can make the process much easier and less expensive.

When it comes to water line maintenance and repair in Chicago, it’s important to know who is responsible for the bill. In most cases, the homeowner is responsible for the cost of any water line maintenance and repair. This includes installation, repairs, or emergency visits by a water line repair company. The City of Chicago typically owns up to the street curb in front of a home, but the homeowner assumes responsibility for the total care of the water line.

It’s important to know that household piping—from the meter to the tap—is also the responsibility of the homeowner. This includes your main line, supply lines, flex lines, and occasionally even the meter. It pays to make sure your plumbing system is running efficiently and that you’re doing everything you can to prevent future problems from arising.

Chicago Water Line Installation

If the time has come for a full replacement of your water line, you’re likely asking who is responsible for replacing it and how you should go about it. The answer to this question depends on the situation. If your water main is broken, aged, has been damaged due to weather conditions, or is connected to an old lead line, the City of Chicago is responsible for its replacement. But, if your water line is being disconnected for cosmetic reasons or other reasons on the homeowner’s part, then the cost of water line replacement is the responsibility of the homeowner.

Water line installation is a job best left to a professional. A professional plumber can safely and efficiently install a new water line and make sure it’s up to code. If you want to avoid costly mistakes, it’s important to use a licensed, experienced plumber. Not to mention, it’s important to hire a licensed Chicago plumber because many municipalities require a permit for any underground excavation work.

Water Line Replacement Responsibility

Knowing who is responsible for lead water line replacement is the first step in getting the job done. But, it’s also important to be aware of the potential problems you may run into when replacing a water line. First and foremost, it’s important to understand that there is potential for future repairs. Any water line connection, regardless of whether it is newly installed or replacement, could potentially leak due to soil or ground movement. If this happens, the homeowner will be responsible for footing the bill for the repair.

Also, if you’re not doing the work yourself, you will need to find a qualified, insured contractor and obtain any required permits. Lastly, as a homeowner it’s important to ensure that your water line is replaced to code and up to the City of Chicago’s standards.

Replacing a water line in Chicago can be a costly and complex job. Be sure to understand the rules and regulations and know who is responsible for the cost of the project. Make sure to understand the potential for future repairs and potential permits that might be necessary. When it comes to water line replacement, knowledge is power and can save money and time.

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Looking for the best water line repair or replacement service in Chicago? Call us at 773-599-9181 or contact us below!

Benefits of a Water Line Replacement in Chicago

water line replacement in chicago.

Improving Water Quality

One of the major benefits of a water line replacement in Chicago is the significant improvement in water quality. Over time, old water lines can become corroded and deteriorate, resulting in a decrease in the quality of the water that flows into homes and businesses. By replacing the outdated water lines, residents and businesses can enjoy clean and safe water that is free from contaminants, rust, and other impurities.

Enhancing Water Pressure

Another advantage of a water line replacement is the enhancement of water pressure. Aging water lines often experience leaks and clogs, which can lead to a decrease in water pressure. This can be particularly frustrating for residents who rely on adequate water pressure for various household tasks such as showering, washing dishes, and doing laundry. By replacing the old water lines, water pressure can be restored to optimal levels, ensuring a steady flow of water.

Reducing Water Loss

Old and damaged water lines are prone to leaks and cracks, which result in significant water loss. This not only wastes valuable water resources but also leads to increased water bills for residents and businesses. By replacing the outdated water lines, the occurrence of leaks and cracks can be minimized, resulting in a more efficient water distribution system and reduced water loss. This is not only beneficial for the environment but also helps to lower water bills for consumers.

Preventing Costly Repairs

Proactively replacing water lines in Chicago can help prevent costly repairs in the future. As water lines age, they become more vulnerable to damage, such as leaks and bursts. These issues can result in significant property damage and require expensive repairs. By investing in a water line replacement, property owners can avoid the hassle and expense of dealing with emergency repairs caused by water line failures. This provides peace of mind and saves both time and money in the long run.

Ensuring Reliable Water Supply

An outdated water line system can lead to unexpected disruptions in the water supply. Whether it’s due to leaks, bursts, or other infrastructure issues, an unreliable water supply can cause inconvenience and frustration for residents and businesses. By replacing the aging water lines, the reliability of the water supply is greatly improved. This means residents and businesses can have confidence in a consistent and uninterrupted water supply for their daily needs.

Increasing Property Value

Investing in a water line replacement can also have a positive impact on property value. Potential homebuyers and tenants often prioritize the quality and reliability of utilities, including the water supply. By upgrading the water lines, property owners can attract buyers and tenants who value a well-maintained and efficient water system. This can lead to higher property values and increased demand for the property.

Supporting Sustainable Development

Replacing outdated water lines is not only beneficial for individual properties but also contributes to sustainable development on a larger scale. By reducing water loss, improving water quality, and enhancing water distribution efficiency, a water line replacement in Chicago supports sustainable water management practices. Conserving water resources and ensuring a reliable water supply for future generations is an important aspect of sustainable development.

In Conclusion

A water line replacement in Chicago offers numerous benefits, including improved water quality, enhanced water pressure, reduced water loss, prevention of costly repairs, reliable water supply, increased property value, and support for sustainable development. Property owners and residents who invest in this upgrade can enjoy clean and safe water, lower water bills, and peace of mind knowing that their water infrastructure is efficient and reliable. By prioritizing the replacement of outdated water lines, Chicago can maintain a modern and sustainable water distribution system for the benefit of its residents and the environment.

The Main Reasons for Water Line Damage

a burst water line

The water line is that part of your home’s plumbing that connects the home to the municipal water supply. Although the water line is responsible for providing a constant supply of clean water to your home, it is one of the least-acknowledged parts of your home’s plumbing. 

This is because most of the water line is underground, and homeowners only know its presence when it is damaged, explains Limestone Country Properties. The water line, buried in the ground, is mostly out of homeowners’ sight and, therefore, never comes to mind.

But water lines get damaged, and the impact can be devastating when they do. Many things cause water line damage. This post highlights the most common causes of water line damage and the telltale signs that your home’s water line is damaged.

Causes of water line damage

Faulty installation

If they are to last long and work efficiently, water lines must be installed in keeping with city guidelines. If this is not done, the water line will be prone to damage and likely to fail before its projected lifespan. The most common water line installation issues are using substandard materials and hurriedly installing the line. Water lines that are not properly installed are likely to leak.

Soil shifting

If the soil where an underground water line is laid moves, it will displace the line and expose it to the risk of damage. There are several reasons why soil will move. These movements may result from a leak in the water line that needs repair, which leaves the surrounding soil waterlogged. It could also be due to the type of soil and the weather.

Changes in water pressure

Underground water pipes are designed to withstand a certain amount of pressure. If water pressure within the pipes exceeds this upper limit, it will cause cracks and leaks. Significant damage can happen to a water line even if it has been exposed to high water pressure for a very short period. Water pressure issues may also be caused by poor maintenance.

Intruding tree roots

Usually, trees get their water from the surrounding air and soil. But if there is a nearby water line with even the tiniest hairline fracture, tree roots will sniff out the water inside the line and penetrate the pipe to reach that water. Trees’ roots may also interfere with water lines when they displace them from their original position in the ground.

Corrosion

This problem is most common with metal, copper, and steel pipes. PVC and CPVC pipes are also affected by corrosion, but to a lesser extent. In addition to the material of the pipe, other factors that influence the rate of corrosion of a water line are soil acidity and the chemical content of the water running through the pipes.

Extreme temperature changes

Sudden and extreme temperature changes can damage a water line. Water line damage happens in very cold weather when temperatures fall below freezing. If a water line is not below the frost line, it can freeze, causing pressure to build inside the pipe until it bursts. Or if the line does not crack, it can weaken over time.

Clogs

Materials inside the water or debris that finds its way into the water line can block it. A clog in your home’s water line will manifest as slow water flow. The buildup of pressure inside that section of piping before the clog can also lead to the water line bursting. Low water pressure in your home may indicate that your water line may be leaking.

Damage by rodents

Burrowing animals can damage your water line. Rodents will gnaw on pipes to sharpen their teeth, damaging the water line in the process. They may also chew on the pipe to access the water inside it. Animals can dislodge the pipes when they move through the ground or build their nests close to the water line.

Aging

Homeowners rarely keep tabs on the age of their water line. Every artificial material in the home has its expiration date. That date may be delayed or accelerated by several factors, such as weather conditions in the location, maintenance quality, and material type. But whether you look after your water line or not, the day comes when you need to replace it.

Signs of water line damage

The following signs will tell you if your water line is damaged:

  • Discolored water from the faucets because of corrosion inside the pipe or soil getting into the water line.

  • A significant drop in water pressure that is not from the municipal water supply.

  • Patches of wet or soggy soil in the yard indicate the presence of a leak.

  • Inexplicable spikes in your water bill due to an undetected leak.

If you suspect your water line is damaged due to the main reasons outlined, seek out a professional plumber to fix it.

Common Water Line Problems That Require Repair or Replacement

water line repair in chicago

Have you ever imagined what life would be like if you did not have potable water running in your home? Would modern life exist if you had to dig a well and every time you needed water, go to the well and manually fetch water from it?

The water that flows in your home is a lifesaver and the pipes that make it possible for that water to reach your home are a lifeline. Without those pipes, you would not have the convenience of a modern home with water on demand, explains Keyrenter Hampton Roads.

But this fact is not always obvious because your home’s water line is out of sight. Homeowners tend to forget that this vital part of the home’s plumbing also requires attention. Your water line is subject to many of the same issues that the rest of your plumbing is.

The water line can get damaged. It can get old or the very water that runs through the water line can corrode the pipes and make them less efficient. If your water line collapses, your ability to do simple household tasks will come to an abrupt end.

But this doesn’t happen often because water lines are designed to be sturdy and can go for many years without any signs of trouble. But this is also why water line issues are costly to fix. The problem can build up for years, only to be discovered after it has done maximum damage.

This is why it is important to always make sure your water line is in good condition. You need a competent local plumber to inspect the system periodically and make sure everything is as it should be. You should also know the potential problems that can happen with your water line. in some cases it makes more sense to replace your entire water line than to have it spot repaired.

What are the common water line problems that require repair or replacement?

Old pipes or regular wear and tear

If your home is old and the pipes have not been replaced since the house was built, you can expect more water line problems. Firstly, your water line may have metal pipes that are more prone to corrosion. Secondly, a lot of the other factors listed below may be affecting the pipes.

Tree roots intrusion

Tree roots can damage your water line either by dislodging it or by penetrating the pipes. The latter problem is more common when the pipe already has a leak or weak point. But pipes that are dislodged by tree roots may eventually start to leak also.

Poor installation and human error

If pipes are not installed by a professional or according to the proper procedures, you will have issues with the water line. Water lines may also be damaged if heavy equipment is driven over the ground where pipes are buried. This can also happen if someone digs in the yard and accidentally damages the pipe.

High water pressure

Excessively high water pressure is more damaging to your plumbing than low water pressure, although the latter problem is more likely to get your attention. High water pressure causes vibrations inside pipes that can damage the water line or home appliances and cause leaks.

Soil movements

Upward or downward movement of the soil surrounding your water line can dislodge the pipes and cause you all kinds of problems. These movements are often unforeseen at the time the pipes were laid. Also, there may be no practical way to predict or prevent these ground movements or seismic activity.

Sediment buildup and mineral deposit

If the water in your city is hard, the water line will be more susceptible to this particular issue. The mineral content of water, along with other impurities, will be deposited inside your pipes as water travels through them. Over time this can narrow the diameter of the pipes and make them more likely to burst and leak.

Accumulation of dirt inside the water line

This does not typically happen unless the water line is broken. If the line is cracked anywhere along its length, dirt from the surrounding soil can find its way into the pipes. You can usually tell when you have this problem because the water coming into your home will be discolored.

Frozen water

This is a common issue in areas with harsh winters. If the water line has ever frozen or come close to freezing, the structural integrity of the pipes may be compromised. Freezing water will stress the pipe as the water inside the pipe expands, making the water line more likely to burst or leak.

Water leaks

The water line can leak as a result of the problems listed above or for unknown reasons. Water line leaks are not as easy to detect as leaks inside your home. If you notice spikes in your water bill without any changes in your water usage, you may have a leak in your plumbing systems, possibly in the water line.

Rodent damage

Burrowing animals, especially rodents, can damage your water line. They will damage the water line not just by digging around the pipes and dislodging them, but also by chewing on the pipes.

Replacing Your Lead Water Service Line in Chicago

water-service-line-replacement-chicago

In 2021, the city of Chicago has initiated a program called the Lead Service Line Replacement (LSLR) plan designed to fast track the replacement of the city’s nearly 400,000 lead service lines. If you are a homeowner in Chicago, you need to know what this program is about and how to take advantage of incentives being offered by the city to replace your lead service line. Same goes for landlords and property owners, says EvolveNV.

What is the Lead Service Line Replacement (LSLR) plan?

A service line is a pipe that carries water from the city’s main water supply in the street to your home. The pipe runs underground from your home, across the lawn, and underneath the city sidewalk until it reaches the water main below the street.

Why does the city want you to replace your service line?

Only service lines made of lead are being replaced. This is because of the health hazard posed by exposure to the lead in these pipes. Even the lowest level of lead exposure has been shown to adversely affect the IQ of children and their attention spans.

Although most lead poisoning happens via contact with lead-based paint or lead-contaminated dust, lead may also leach into drinking water from the lead service line. Since there is no identified safe level for lead exposure, the best way to prevent this issue is to replace the lead water lines on your Chicago property.

How will you know if you have a lead service line?

If your house or two-flat building was built before 1986 and the water service has never been replaced during renovation, there is a big chance the water service line is made of lead. If you are not sure, here is a simple test to identify the material in your water service line.

  • Step one: Locate the water meter or shutoff valve in your home. The service line typically enters through the basement before it connects to the meter. If you can’t find the meter, use the shutoff valve.

  • Step two: Hold a magnet to the pipe to check if it is magnetic.

  • Step three: Scratch the pipe with a coin or key to see the color of the material.

The pipe should be made of one of these materials:

  • Copper: Copper is not magnetic. It has a shiny orange appearance and is quite common in Chicago.

  • Galvanized steel: Steel is magnetic. It is silver-gray and is no longer used in new construction.

  • Lead: Lead is not magnetic. It has a shiny silver-gray color and is not used in new construction.

  • PVC: PVC plastic is not magnetic. It is typically white and is rarely used in Chicago.

What does replacing a water service line entail?

Replacing the water service line is a labor-intensive process that involves digging a trench from your home to the street, up to the point where the service line connects to the water main. After the trench is dug, the old lead line is replaced with a new copper service line. A water meter is also installed to help you save money on any spiking water bills.

a water lead line replacement taking place in chicago.

Replacing the water service line is a labor-intensive process that involves digging a trench from your home to the street, up to the point where the service line connects to the water main.

Will the City of Chicago help with your lead service line replacement?

To assist as many homeowners as possible with their lead service line replacement, the city of Chicago is accepting applications for the Equity Lead Service Line Replacement Program. Under the program, homeowners are eligible for free lead service line replacement plus a free water meter, if:

  • They live in a home they own.

  • Have a child under 18 years old living in the home, or

  • Their water has elevated lead level as shown by a free test by the Department of Water Management, and

  • The household income is 80% below the area median income, which is $74,550 for a family of 4.

But for homeowners who do not meet the criteria, the city still offers incentives. These are for homeowners who hire a private contractor to replace their lead service line and the incentives are available in the form of waivers and freebies. Commercial and mixed-use residential/commercial properties are not eligible for this. Here is how it works.

  • The homeowner will pay for the lead service line replacement (LSLR).
  • The city will subsidize the standard permits, allowing homeowners to save as much as $3,100.

  • The city will attach the new service line to the water main free of charge and provide a free water meter for the home (if there is none).

But to qualify, this must be a standalone project, and not part of a home renovation or expansion. Additionally, the contractor must be licensed.

When selecting a contractor for LSLR, homeowners are encouraged to follow the below process:

  • Contact three licensed Chicago plumbers to request quotes and qualifications information.

  • The plumber should visit the home to confirm service line material and other details.

  • The plumber should have an Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) Plumbing Contractor License Number and must be on the list of City of Chicago-Licensed Plumbing Contractors.

  • The plumber should be able to provide a list of 3-5 addresses where they have acquired a City of Chicago Department of Buildings permit for residential LSLR (with details of those projects).

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Do You Need to Replace Your Main Water Line?

replace main water line

The main water line is the primary pipe that supplies all the water you use for your various household needs. It carries water from the public supply into your home. This pipe is usually buried around three feet deep in the yard, so most times you don’t even know it’s there.

For most homeowners, says Innovative Property Solutions, the only time they think of the main water line is when they need to turn off the water supply to the whole house. Because this part of the home’s plumbing system is largely out of sight, it tends to get overlooked during maintenance.

But the main water line is the most important part of your home’s plumbing. Without it, you couldn’t use many of the appliances in your home nor could you maintain personal hygiene. This is why you want to stay up-to-speed with the condition of the main water line.

Common main water line problems

Age

replace-water-line

Aging pipes are more susceptible to damage. Accumulated wear and tear may result in the collapse of the main water line. If your home was built before 1960, you may have lead or galvanized water lines. These pipes are dangerous and prone to corrosion.

Soil movements

Upward, downward, or sideways soil movements will exert pressure on pipes. Shifting soils will force the pipe out of place or out of shape and this can happen slowly over a period of time.

Changing water pressure

High water pressure is the main culprit here and it is a bigger problem with aging pipes. Sudden changes in pressure may cause the pipes to burst. Low pressure is also a problem because it leads to increased sedimentation inside the pipes.

Sediment buildup

This can result from mineral buildup. If the water in your area is hard, the mineral content will be deposited in the pipes as the water passes through. Over time, the pipe becomes narrower and more likely to burst under pressure or get clogged.

Tree root damage

Tree roots can penetrate the main water line and block it. A tree root can also wrap itself around the pipe and choke it, reducing, or cutting off the water supply. Tree roots will typically do this only when there is a leak in the pipe.

Human error

If the main water line was poorly installed, it will be prone to damage. This problem usually doesn’t show up immediately after the pipe is installed. Pipes can also get damaged by digging such as when installing a sprinkler system in the yard.

Past repairs

If the main water line has been repaired in the past, there is a chance that future problems will occur around those areas that were repaired. This can happen even if the repair was properly done.

There is a lot that can happen to damage the main water lines in your home. But you cannot tell what is causing the problem until you dig down to the pipes. Fixing main water issues can be tedious and costly; you don’t want to do it more than once. 

This is why it is essential to know when problems call for the replacement of the main water line. How can you tell when there are problems with the main water line and when it is time to replace the pipes?

Signs of damage to the main water line

Low water pressure

water-trickle

A break in your main water line will cause a drop in overall water pressure.

A break in your main water line will cause a drop in overall water pressure. The severity of the problem depends on the extent of the damage. A small leak may not be noticeable. However, any decrease in water pressure should be investigated at once. Even if it is a major leak, you may not notice because the pipe is encased in soil which seals the leak. Sedimentation will also cause drops in water pressure.

Poor water quality

This could be discoloration due to the presence of debris that has seeped into the water from the surrounding soil. It could also be from mineral sediments in the pipes. If the water has a yellowish appearance, foul odor, or a gritty texture, you need to check your main water line. This problem will often happen alongside a drop in water pressure.

Water-logged front yard

If the front yard is inexplicably soggy – the water is not coming from your sprinkler and it has not rained – your main water line is most likely leaking. Sometimes the problem is so bad you will see water bubbling up to the surface of the lawn.

Spiking utility bills

high-water-bill

When your water bill increases suddenly and there is no reason for it, it means there is a leak in your plumbing system. If you check the plumbing inside the home and the basement but can’t find the leak, the problem is probably located underground in your main water lines.

For any of these issues, you need to call a professional plumber asap. Only after the pipes have been uncovered can you determine the extent of the problem to know if you should replace your main water line or not.

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