Tag Archives: leaking pipes

Common Kitchen and Bathroom Plumbing Problems in Chicago and the Experts Who Can Solve Them

kitchen and bathroom plumbing issues in chicago.

Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or landlord, it’s important to be aware of the plumbing issues that can arise in these areas and know about the expert professionals who can help you solve them. Here we’ll discuss some of the most common plumbing problems you may encounter in your kitchen and bathroom, and provide recommendations on how to prevent them or find reliable plumbing services in the Chicago area.

The Importance of a Well Maintained Plumbing System

Having a properly functioning plumbing system is crucial for your daily activities in the kitchen and bathroom. From cooking and cleaning to personal hygiene, a break or malfunction in the plumbing can disrupt your routine and cause inconvenience. It’s essential to address any plumbing issues promptly to avoid more significant problems and potential damage to your property.

Kitchen Plumbing Problems

  • Clogged Drains: Clogged kitchen drains are a common issue faced by many households. Food particles, grease, and other debris can accumulate in the pipes over time, leading to slow drainage or complete blockage. This can result in unpleasant odors, the risk of flooding, and even damage to your kitchen fixtures. Regular drain maintenance and avoiding pouring grease down the drain can help prevent clogs.
  • Leaking Faucets: A dripping faucet not only wastes water but can also be a significant annoyance. The constant dripping can disturb your sleep and increase your water bill unnecessarily. Chicago has a notorious history of high water bills, so it’s crucial to fix leaking faucets as soon as possible to conserve water and save money.
  • Garbage Disposal Problems: Garbage disposals are a convenient appliance in the kitchen, but they can encounter issues such as jamming, humming noises, or complete failure. These problems often occur due to improper usage or disposing of items that shouldn’t go into the garbage disposal. It is vital to be mindful of what you put down the disposal and have a professional plumber address any problems promptly.
  • Low Water Pressure: Inadequate water pressure in the kitchen can make tasks like rinsing dishes or filling pots a frustrating experience. Low water pressure can be caused by various factors, including mineral buildup in the pipes or issues with the municipal water supply. Speaking with a professional plumber can help determine the underlying cause and find a suitable solution.
a plumber making a garbage disposal repair in chicago.

Garbage disposals are a convenient appliance in the kitchen, but they can encounter issues such as jamming, humming noises, or complete failure.

Bathroom Plumbing Problems

  • Clogged Toilets: A clogged toilet is probably one of the most inconvenient plumbing problems to deal with. It can lead to overflowing, unsanitary conditions, and disrupt the normal functioning of your bathroom. While minor clogs can often be resolved with a plunger, persistent or severe clogs may require the expertise of a plumber.
  • Leaking Pipes: Leaking pipes in the bathroom can cause water damage to walls, floors, and cabinets, leading to mold growth and structural problems. It’s important to address any signs of leakage promptly, such as water spots, dampness, or a musty odor. Professional plumbers can assess the extent of the leak and perform the necessary repairs or replacements.
  • Faulty Shower/Tub Faucets: A malfunctioning shower or bathtub faucet can be frustrating, whether it’s a continuous drip, inconsistent water temperature, or a complete failure to turn on. These issues can disrupt your daily bathing routine and compromise your comfort. Professional plumbers can diagnose the problem and repair or replace the faulty components.
  • Water Heater Problems: Reliability is crucial when it comes to hot water in your bathroom. If you’re experiencing lukewarm water, inconsistent temperatures, or no hot water at all, it may indicate a problem with your water heater. Professional plumbers in Chicago have the necessary expertise to diagnose and repair various water heater issues, ensuring you have a consistent and comfortable supply of hot water.

Choosing the Right Plumbing Experts in Chicago

When faced with any plumbing problem, it’s important to seek the assistance of professional plumbing experts. In Chicago, there are numerous reputable plumbers that can provide reliable solutions to your kitchen and bathroom plumbing issues. Here are a few tips to help you choose the right plumbing professionals:

– Ask for recommendations from friends, family, or neighbors who have had positive experiences with local plumbers.

– Research online reviews and ratings of different plumbers in Chicago to get an overview of their reputation and customer satisfaction.

– Check if the plumbing company is licensed, insured, and provides guarantees for their work.

– Inquire about their experience in handling similar plumbing problems to ensure they have the necessary expertise.

– Obtain multiple quotes from different plumbing services to compare prices and ensure you’re getting a fair deal.

By taking these steps, you can find reliable plumbing experts in Chicago who will efficiently address your kitchen and bathroom plumbing problems.

Plumbing problems in the kitchen and bathroom can disrupt your daily routine and cause inconvenience if not addressed promptly. By being aware of the common issues and potential solutions, as well as choosing the right plumbers, you can effectively tackle any plumbing problem that arises. Remember to prioritize regular maintenance and address minor issues before they escalate into more significant problems. With the help of the right plumbers in Chicago, you can ensure the smooth functioning of your kitchen and bathroom plumbing systems for years to come.

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Do you have a kitchen or plumbing issue in Chicago that needs to be addressed? Chicago Plumbing Experts can help! Contact us below:

 

Don’t Let Leaky Plumbing Cause Damage to Your Chicago Home

leaky pipes in chicago.

Protect Your Chicago Home from the Damage of Leaky Plumbing

Welcome to our website, where we aim to provide you with valuable information and resources to help protect your Chicago home from the devastating effects of leaky plumbing. Leaky pipes, faucets, and fixtures can cause significant damage to your property if not addressed promptly. By understanding the common causes of plumbing leaks, knowing how to detect them early, and taking proactive measures, you can prevent costly repairs and potential structural damage.

The Dangers of Ignoring Leaky Plumbing

Leaky plumbing may initially seem like a minor inconvenience, but it can quickly escalate into a major problem. Here are some of the dangers associated with ignoring or delaying the repair of leaky pipes:

  • Water Damage: Over time, even a small leak can result in extensive water damage to your walls, ceilings, floors, and other areas of your home. This can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, which can pose health risks to you and your family.
  • Structural Damage: Leaky pipes can weaken the structure of your home, compromising its stability and potentially causing costly structural repairs.
  • Increased Utility Bills: Leaks can significantly increase your water bills, as well as contribute to wasted water, putting unnecessary strain on the environment.
  • Electrical Hazards: Water and electricity don’t mix well. Leaky plumbing can lead to electrical hazards, risking your safety and that of your family.

Common Causes of Plumbing Leaks

Understanding the common causes of plumbing leaks can help you take preventive measures and mitigate potential damage:

1. Corrosion

Over time, pipes can corrode and rust, leading to leaks. Corrosion is more common in older plumbing systems or those with poor water quality.

2. High Water Pressure

Excessively high water pressure can put strain on your pipes, causing them to crack or burst. Consider installing a pressure regulator to maintain a safe water pressure level in your home.

3. Pipe Joints and Connections

Poorly connected or loose pipe joints can result in leaks. It’s crucial to ensure that all connections are properly sealed and secure.

4. Clogs

Clogs can create excessive pressure within your plumbing system, leading to leaks. Avoid putting items down your drains that can cause blockages and invest in regular drain cleaning services.

5. Temperature Changes

Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause pipes to expand and contract, weakening their structure and causing leaks. Proper insulation can help reduce this risk.

Signs of a Plumbing Leak

Early detection of a plumbing leak is key to preventing extensive damage. Look out for the following signs:

1. Unexplained Water Pooling

If you notice water pooling in areas where it shouldn’t be, such as under sinks, around toilets, or near appliances, there may be a leak.

2. Damp or Musty Odors

A persistent musty or damp odor, particularly in areas with plumbing fixtures, could indicate a hidden leak.

3. Water Stains

Yellow or brown stains on your walls, floors, or ceilings are a clear sign of water damage and a potential plumbing leak.

4. Increased Water Bills

If you notice a sudden and unexplained increase in your water bills, it may be indicative of an undetected leak.

5. Decreased Water Pressure

A significant drop in water pressure throughout your home can be a sign of a leak or other plumbing issues.

a man reading his high water bill in chicago.

Keep an eye on your water bills and be alert to any significant increases. If you notice a sudden spike without any apparent explanation, it’s time to investigate potential leaks.

Preventing and Repairing Plumbing Leaks

Now that you understand the risks and potential causes of plumbing leaks, it’s essential to take proactive measures to prevent them from occurring:

1. Regular Maintenance

Schedule annual plumbing inspections to identify and address any potential leaks or issues before they escalate. A professional plumber can also perform routine maintenance tasks to keep your plumbing system in optimal condition.

2. Monitor Your Water Bill

Keep an eye on your water bills and be alert to any significant increases. If you notice a sudden spike without any apparent explanation, it’s time to investigate potential leaks.

3. Insulate Your Pipes

Insulating your pipes can protect them from extreme temperature changes, reducing the risk of leaks. Pay particular attention to uninsulated pipes in attics, basements, and crawl spaces.

4. Address High Water Pressure

If your water pressure is consistently high, consider installing a pressure regulator to prevent unnecessary strain on your pipes.

5. Act Promptly

If you detect a plumbing leak, no matter how small, it’s crucial to take immediate action. Ignoring the problem or delaying repairs can lead to more extensive damage and costly repairs.

Contact Our Professional Plumbers Today

If you suspect or have detected a plumbing leak in your Chicago home, don’t hesitate to contact our team of experienced plumbers. We specialize in leak detection and repair, utilizing the latest technology and techniques to minimize disruption and ensure a lasting solution. Protect your home and your investment by addressing plumbing leaks promptly.

With our help and expertise, you can maintain a safe, dry, and worry-free home environment, free from the damaging effects of leaky plumbing. Don’t let a small leak turn into a big problem. Contact us today to schedule an inspection or receive immediate assistance with your plumbing needs.

Emergency Plumber Chicago: What to Do If You Have a Leaking Pipe

emergency plumbing services.

Discovering a leaking pipe in your home can be a stressful and potentially destructive situation. Water leaks can cause extensive damage to your property, lead to costly repairs, and even pose health risks if not addressed promptly. In such emergencies, it is crucial to know how to handle the situation effectively and when to call for professional assistance. This article will guide you through the necessary steps to take when faced with a leaking pipe in Chicago and highlight the importance of relying on an emergency plumber.

Assess the Situation

The first step in dealing with a leaking pipe is to assess the situation to determine the severity of the leak. This initial assessment will help you gauge whether you can temporarily address the issue yourself or need immediate professional intervention. Keep in mind that your safety should always be a top priority. Safety goggles, gloves, and protective clothing should be worn when handling any water-related emergencies to avoid potential harm.

If the leak is relatively minor and you feel confident in your abilities, you can attempt to mitigate the situation temporarily until a plumber arrives. However, it is crucial to understand your limitations and not take any risks if you are unsure about how to proceed.

Turn Off the Water Supply

The next step is to locate the main water shut-off valve and turn off the water supply to your entire house. In most homes, this valve is typically located near the water meter or where the main water line enters the house. Shutting off the water supply will prevent further water damage and allow you to work on fixing the leak without water continuously flowing.

a person turning off the main water supply.

Drain the Faucets

After turning off the main water supply, it is essential to drain the faucets by opening them and allowing any remaining water to flow out. This step helps relieve the pressure in the pipes and reduces the risk of further leaks or bursts.

Locate the Source of the Leak

Carefully inspect the affected area and determine the source of the leak. Common locations for pipe leaks include under sinks, along exposed pipes, or in basements. Identifying the exact location of the leak will help you communicate effectively with the emergency plumber when they arrive.

Temporarily Stop the Leak

If the leak is relatively small and manageable, you can attempt to temporarily stop the leak using suitable materials such as plumber’s tape, pipe clamps, or rubber patches. These quick fixes can provide temporary relief until a professional plumber can properly repair or replace the damaged pipe.

Call an Emergency Plumber

Regardless of the size or severity of the leak, it is always advisable to contact an emergency plumber in Chicago. Professional plumbers have the expertise, specialized tools, and experience to handle leaky pipes swiftly and effectively. Their prompt response can prevent further damage and ensure a long-term solution to the issue. It is crucial to provide the plumber with detailed information about the leak and the steps you have taken so far to assist them in addressing the problem efficiently.

a plumber providing a whole house plumbing inspection.

Preventing Future Leaks

While tackling a leaking pipe is an immediate concern, taking preventive measures can help avoid similar situations in the future. Regularly inspecting your plumbing system, addressing any weak points or leaks promptly, and scheduling routine maintenance with a professional plumber can significantly reduce the risk of future pipe leaks. Additionally, ensuring proper insulation, especially during freezing Chicago winters, is crucial to prevent frozen pipes that may burst and cause significant damage.

Conclusion

Dealing with a leaking pipe can be overwhelming, but understanding the necessary steps to take and relying on a professional emergency plumber are key to handling the situation smoothly. Assessing the severity of the leak, turning off the water supply, temporarily stopping the leak, and contacting an emergency plumber are all crucial steps in minimizing damage and ensuring a timely resolution. Remember, prevention is always better than cure, so regular maintenance and proactive measures can help you avoid similar emergencies in the future.

Slow Drains and Leaking Pipes: Is It Time for a Whole House Plumbing Inspection?

a plumber providing a whole house plumbing inspection.

Plumbing issues are a common occurrence in households, and they can cause significant inconvenience and potential damage if left unaddressed. Slow drains and leaking pipes are two prevalent problems that homeowners often encounter. While these issues may seem minor at first, they can indicate larger underlying problems within the plumbing system. That’s why it is essential to consider a whole house plumbing inspection when facing such issues. In this article, we will explore the importance of timely inspections and the benefits they can offer in maintaining a healthy and functional plumbing system.

Identifying the Signs

Slow drains and leaking pipes are not always immediately noticeable. However, paying attention to the following signs can help you determine whether it’s time to schedule a whole house plumbing inspection:

  • Water draining slowly from sinks, showers, or toilets.
  • Unpleasant odors coming from drains.
  • Persistent gurgling or bubbling noises in pipes.
  • Inconsistent water pressure or reduced water flow.
  • Wet spots or discoloration on walls or ceilings.
  • Pools of water forming near plumbing fixtures.
  • Increasing water bills without any apparent reason.

a home plumbing system.

The Importance of a Whole House Plumbing Inspection

A whole house plumbing inspection involves a thorough examination of your entire plumbing system, including pipes, fixtures, drains, and water supply lines. While you may be tempted to address individual issues as they arise, a comprehensive inspection can help identify hidden or potential issues that might develop into major concerns if left untouched. Here are some key reasons why a whole house plumbing inspection is crucial:

1. Early Detection of Problems

A plumbing inspection allows professional plumbers to identify issues that may not be easily visible to the untrained eye. By detecting problems early on, you can prevent them from escalating into more significant and costlier repairs down the line.

2. Prevention of Water Damage

Leaking pipes can cause significant water damage to your home’s structure, walls, flooring, and even electrical components. By detecting and repairing leaks promptly, you can prevent potential mold growth, rotting, and structural damage caused by prolonged exposure to water.

3. Improved Efficiency

Slow drains can be a symptom of clogged or damaged pipes. A professional plumber can determine the underlying cause and recommend the most efficient solution, ensuring that your plumbing system operates optimally and prevents any unnecessary water wastage.

4. Enhanced Safety

A plumbing inspection also helps identify potential safety hazards. For example, corroded pipes can lead to water contamination, posing health risks to you and your family. Additionally, leaky pipes may create slippery surfaces, increasing the chances of accidents or falls within your home.

Choosing a Professional Plumbing Inspection Service

When opting for a whole house plumbing inspection, it is crucial to hire a reputable and experienced plumbing service. Here are a few factors to consider before making your decision:

  • Look for licensed and insured plumbers who have extensive knowledge and experience in conducting whole house plumbing inspections.
  • Check for customer reviews and ratings to gauge service quality and customer satisfaction.
  • Inquire about the specific details covered in the inspection and whether the service includes a comprehensive report of findings and recommendations.
  • Ask about pricing and compare quotes from multiple plumbing companies to ensure you receive a fair and competitive price.

a freshly unclogged kitchen sink drain.

Maintaining a Healthy Plumbing System

Beyond a one-time plumbing inspection, it is crucial to adopt good maintenance practices to keep your plumbing system healthy and functional. Here are a few steps you can take:

  • Regularly clean your drains using natural methods or approved drain cleaners to prevent clogs.
  • Avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper down the toilet, as foreign objects can cause blockages.
  • Keep an eye out for signs of leaks, such as dampness or discoloration, and get them repaired promptly.
  • Monitor your water pressure regularly and address any inconsistencies or sudden drops immediately.
  • Upgrade older plumbing fixtures to improve efficiency and reduce the risk of leaks.

Conclusion

Slow drains and leaking pipes are indicators of potential plumbing issues that should not be ignored. Investing in a whole house plumbing inspection can save you from costly repairs, prevent water damage, improve efficiency, enhance safety, and ensure the overall longevity of your plumbing system. By partnering with local plumbers and prioritizing regular maintenance, you can enjoy a stress-free and smoothly functioning plumbing system that meets your household’s needs for years to come.

The Most Common Emergency Plumbing Issues

a women dealing with a plumbing emergency.

Plumbing is one of the most important systems in any home, but unfortunately, it also has some of the most common emergency issues. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common emergency plumbing issues, their causes, and what you can do to prevent them from happening.

Leaking Pipes

Leaking pipes are one of the most common plumbing emergencies. They can cause water damage to your home, damage to your valuables, and even increase your water bill dramatically. The most common causes of leaking pipes include corrosion, high water pressure, and temperature changes. To prevent leaking pipes, regular inspections, and maintenance are necessary.

If you notice a leak in your home, it is essential to turn off your water supply immediately and call a local plumber to fix the issue as soon as possible. Do not attempt to fix the leak yourself unless you have the necessary skills and tools.

Clogged Drains

Clogged drains are another common emergency plumbing issue. They can be caused by various factors such as hair, food particles, soap scum, and grease. Clogged drains can cause water to back up and overflow, resulting in water damage to your home.

To prevent clogged drains, avoid flushing anything other than toilet paper and human waste down the toilet. Do not pour grease or oil down the drain, and use a strainer to catch food particles when washing dishes.

If you have a clogged drain, try using a plunger or drain snake to remove the blockage. If these methods do not work, call a professional plumber to fix the issue.

a burst pipe is a major plumbing emergency.

If you suspect a burst pipe in your home, turn off your water supply immediately and call an emergency plumber.

Burst Pipes

Burst pipes are one of the most severe plumbing emergencies. They can cause significant water damage to your home and even lead to mold growth if not fixed immediately. Burst pipes can be caused by various factors such as freezing temperatures, corrosion, and high water pressure.

To prevent burst pipes, make sure your pipes are adequately insulated, especially during the winter months. Also, it is crucial to monitor your water pressure and keep it at a safe level.

If you suspect a burst pipe in your home, turn off your water supply immediately and call an emergency plumber. Do not attempt to fix the issue yourself as it can be dangerous.

Gas Leaks

Gas leaks are one of the most dangerous plumbing emergencies. They can cause fires, explosions, and even death if not detected and fixed immediately. Gas leaks can be caused by various factors such as faulty appliances, damaged gas lines, and poor ventilation.

To prevent gas leaks, make sure your appliances are properly installed and maintained. Also, ensure your gas lines are in good condition and have them checked regularly by a professional plumber.

If you suspect a gas leak in your home, turn off your gas supply immediately and evacuate your home. Call a professional plumber or a gas company to fix the issue and do not re-enter your home until you are given the clear to do so.

a shower getting no hot water.

To prevent hot water issues, make sure your water heater is properly installed and maintained.

Hot Water Issues

Hot water issues such as no hot water or insufficient hot water are common plumbing emergencies. They can be caused by various factors such as a faulty water heater, sediment buildup, or a broken pipe.

To prevent hot water issues, make sure your water heater is properly installed and maintained. Also, flush your water heater regularly to remove sediment buildup.

If you are experiencing hot water issues, call an emergency plumber to fix the issue. Do not attempt to fix the problem yourself as it can be dangerous.

Summing it Up

Plumbing emergencies can be stressful and costly to fix, but with proper maintenance and regular inspections, you can prevent them from happening. It is essential to act quickly when you notice any plumbing issue and call an emergency plumber to fix the issue before it becomes a more severe problem. Remember, do not attempt to fix any plumbing emergencies yourself unless you have the necessary skills and tools. With proper care and attention, you can keep your plumbing in excellent condition and avoid any future emergencies.

How Leaking Pipes Can Damage your Home

a leaking pipe

Clean water is delivered straight to your home and readily available whenever needed. That has to be one of the greatest conveniences of modern life. Unlike people who lived less than one hundred years ago, we do not have to fetch water from a well or nearby river and store it in containers inside the home for later use.

Instead, vast networks of pipes crisscross our cities to carry water from treatment plants to our doorstep. From that point, another network of pipes distributes the clean water to the appliances and faucets inside the home. The invention of modern plumbing surely ranks as one of the greatest innovations of all time.

But as good as modern plumbing systems are, they are not without problems, warns Foothills Properties Management & Realty. The number one issue with plumbing systems is that they tend to leak. Plumbing systems have hundreds of connections, and each one has the potential to spring a leak. That is why yearly, around 1 trillion gallons of water are wasted through home plumbing leaks.

Every drop of water leaking from a plumbing system costs homeowners money. In one year, this cost can amount to hundreds of dollars. But this is not the only consequence of a burst water pipe inside the house. By far, the greatest cost of a plumbing leak is the damage out-of-control water can cause to the physical structures of the home.

That is why 1 in 60 insured homes will file for water damage in any given year, and 20% of all insurance claims are connected to water damage. The result is that of the $10 billion worth of insurance payouts made every single year by insurance companies, damage by leaking pipes contributes a huge portion. So, how exactly do leaking pipes damage your home?

How leaking pipes damage your home

Water pipes leak for several reasons, aging plumbing systems, corrosion, sedimentation inside pipes, sudden temperature changes, loose fittings and connections, excessive water pressure, and much more. 

When a water pipe leaks, the water inside the pipe is released into the surrounding environment and can cause three kinds of damage.

Damage to the contents of the home

By far, the least-devastating damage caused by a leaking pipe is when the water destroys the content of the house. This happens when items like carpets, clothes, paintings, or furniture stand in the path of running water and get soaked as a result. As costly as this damage is, it is minor compared to the other ways water can damage your home.

Pipe leaks leading to cosmetic damage

Water from a leaking pipe can significantly damage the home’s appearance. If the leaking pipe is hidden behind a wall and the leak is not detected, the wall can become discolored as a result. 

Water can also cause wall paint to start to bubble, peel, or flake. It can make the wallpaper start to peel or warp. Leaking pipes can also cause the de-laminating of plywood and other materials in the home. All these will diminish the appeal of the home.

Pipe leaks leading to structural damage

By far, the worst effect of a leaking pipe is when the water attacks the physical structures of the house to either weaken or destroy them. This often happens when a pipe leak goes undetected for a long time. There is no limit to how much harm water can cause to the structural elements of the building.

If this problem is not addressed promptly, it can destroy the building. Examples of structural damage caused by leaking pipes include:

  • Floorboard warping: This happens when water collects beneath the floorboards. The boards swell as a result and start to warp. This often manifests as bumps or lumps in the carpet or wood floors.

  • Wood rot: If contact between water and the home’s wooden components persist, those components can start to rot. This can happen to doors, door jambs, floorboards, cabinets, roof structures, and other wooden features of the building.

  • Damaged insulation: The insulation inside walls should always be kept dry. If water gets into the insulation, it loses its insulating properties and the ability of the HVAC to regulate the home’s temperature will be compromised.

  • Drywall damage: Water can saturate the drywall to the point where it begins to bulge and sag. If the drywall and framing materials of the house are weakened, the entire ceiling or upper floors can collapse.

  • Foundation damage: The greatest threat that water from a leaking pipe poses to a house is the threat of foundation damage. If water seeps into the foundation of the building, it can corrode the steel frames inside the foundation. If this happens, the foundation can start to crumble or break away.

To sum up, a seemingly minor issue like a tiny leak from a pipe is enough to destroy the entire structure of a building completely.

What to Know about Leaking Cast Iron Pipes

a leaking cast iron pipe

Plumbing pipes will leak, corrode, or burst at some point in their life. That is one of the realities of plumbing systems. The best you can hope for, says Volusia County Property Management, is to repair or replace the pipes before this happens or catch the problem on time; before it causes significant damage.

But a lot also depends on the kind of pipes you have in your plumbing systems. Generally, your sewer line and water pipes will be made of one of these three materials: clay, cast iron, or PVC. Clay pipes are the oldest of these three, which went out of use more than 80 years ago.

Cast iron pipes are not old as clay pipes, and they were used until the late 1980s. But even though cast iron pipes have been phased out, it is not surprising to find homes with sewer or water pipes made of cast iron. What are the issues with cast iron pipes?

What you should know about cast iron pipes

Cast iron pipes were introduced around 1900 as a replacement for clay pipes. These were commonly used until the 1980s, when they stopped being used for residential plumbing installations. But even after the arrival of PVC, cast iron pipes were still used, especially as underground piping.

Cast iron pipes have 50-100 years life expectancy, but this is only for above-ground installations. Once cast iron pipes are buried in the ground, their life expectancy falls by 50%. What are the reasons for this shorter lifespan?

Cast iron is a form of iron, and as you know, iron rusts. The rate at which iron rusts depends on how much water it is exposed to. Above-ground cast iron pipes are exposed to less water than below-ground cast iron pipes, hence the difference in their life expectancies.

When cast iron pipes are buried, they are exposed to moisture from both sides. On the outside, the pipes are in contact with the soil around them, and they will get wet. At the same time, they are also wet on the inside because of the water that is constantly running through them.

From the first minute you lay a cast iron pipe in the ground, it starts to deteriorate. In addition to water, other things can accelerate the deterioration of cast iron pipes and influence how fast the pipes begin to leak. These include:

Detergents, shampoo, and soap

These have caustic substances inside them that react with the metal in cast iron pipes and eat away at the materials of those pipes. Whether this is laundry soap or dishwashing soap, they will accelerate the deterioration of your cast iron pipes.

Chemical drain cleaners

Chemical drain cleaners are bad for plumbing systems, regardless of whether you have PVC or cast iron pipes. This is not to say that chemical drain cleaners will not remove clogs in your home drains. They will remove clogs, but they will also damage your pipes. 

This is because of the active agent in drain cleaners, such as sulfuric acid, or other corrosive materials. Acids and cast iron pipes do not mix well; using chemical drain cleaners when you have iron plumbing is a bad idea.

Acidic soils

Soil conditions will also affect the performance and lifespan of your cast iron pipes. Acidic soils have the same effect on cast iron pipes as drain cleaners. If the soil in your area is acidic, the cast iron pipes will break down faster and leak. 

Grease buildup

In PVC pipes, grease can build up and block the drainpipes. But the effect of grease inside cast iron pipes is worse. Grease will not simply clog a cast iron pipe; it will cause it to rot. 

When grease sits in any part of your cast iron piping for a long time, it results in what is known as “channel rot.” This is where grease eats out a whole section of piping until the soil outside the pipe is visible from inside the pipe. When this happens, you cannot simply clean the pipe; you have to replace it.

If you still have cast iron pipes in your plumbing system, what can you do about them? If you have been experiencing slow drains, leaks, or persistent backups, you can have your pipes inspected to know the cause of the problem. A sewer camera inspection will tell you the state of your pipes and help you decide the next steps.

But if you really want to solve the issues permanently, the best option is to completely replace your home plumbing pipes. Replacing pipes in a plumbing system is not cheap, and you may not be ready for that expense. That is understandable. However, if you really want peace of mind from your plumbing system, this is something you should start to plan and prepare for.