Should I Replace Rusty Water Pipes?

Discoloration

• Water that flows through a rusty pipe becomes discolored. Although not hazardous or toxic to human health, the water can cause staining to occur. Toilet bowls and sinks will become discolored over time. Discolored water can also stain laundry. Avoid using chlorine in the wash if the water contains rust. Replacing the rusty water pipes or repairing them will save your clothes and keep surfaces in the home clean.

Pressure

• Heavily corroded pipes will also interfere with the water's flow. A toilet will usually take an excessively long time to fill if there is a heavy buildup of rust inside the pipes. Showers may also not operate at full potential. And the steady stream of water from a faucet will be severely compromised by rust buildup inside the pipe. If the homeowner wants to increase the water's pressure inside the home, the only way to achieve it is to replace or repair the rusty pipes.

Rust Chunks

• Galvanized steel pipes that are about 30 years old may begin to show signs of rust such as particles in the water or water discoloration. Water pipes should be replaced or repaired if chunks of the rust break off from the pipe's interior. The hard and often sharp chunks will flow with the water. They will clog up faucets, washing machines and shower heads. The particles can also be unpleasant to drink. The sediment chunks usually appear brown, black or orange in color.

Saving the Pipes

• A homeowner may opt for repair rather than replacement. A plumber will dry out the rusted water pipe with compressed air. Once the pipe is dry, the plumber will introduce an aluminum oxide abrasive into the water pipe. The abrasive substance will break up the rust build-up in the pipe. Once the rust is removed from the pipe's interior by the abrasive solution, an epoxy is run through the pipe. The epoxy helps seal any holes that may have occurred from the corrosion. The epoxy will help the pipe last 75 years, according to ACE DuraFlo.