If you have an older home, your plumbing system may be the cause of health problems. Homes with old plumbing pipes should receive a professional inspection. They may contain lead, which can leach into the water supply and put your family in danger.
Green Energy Mechanical Inc. is the number one plumber in Canton, MA. When you need to know with certainty that your drinking water is safe, you want to work with our team. We’ll help you understand the dangers of an outdated plumbing system and install a new one for you.
Obsolete Plumbing Components
Homes constructed in the early-to-mid-1900s may have old plumbing pipes that could compromise your health. It was common practice prior to the 1980s to use galvanized iron pipes and copper joinings in home plumbing systems. We now know that both lead and copper pose health hazards.
Pipes made from galvanized iron can deposit lead into the water supply. Exposure to any amount of lead can cause an array of health problems, like:
- Abdominal pain
- Nausea
- Headaches
- Fatigue
- Unexplained metal taste
- Cognitive decline
Prolonged exposure to lead can result in chronic health problems. While copper ingestion is not as much of a danger, it can cause harmful carcinogens to seep into the water supply.
In addition to lead, galvanized pipes can cause rust in the water supply. Small amounts of rust do not pose a danger, but you may notice an unpleasant taste or even discolored water. The presence of rust can also cause your clothes to feel rigid and rough after washing them.
The Truth About Galvanized Iron
Galvanized iron pipes aren’t made of iron at all. They are steel with a thin zinc coating on both the inside and outside. Over time, the layer of zinc wears away and enters the water supply. Extensive corrosion of zinc, lead, and copper is why galvanized iron pipes are no longer used for plumbing systems.
Contemporary plumbing installation uses safe materials to avoid contaminating the water supply. If you are unsure about the age of your plumbing system, contact a professional for testing.
Diminished Water Pressure
Over time, excess minerals and other sediment create obstacles within the plumbing. Mineral buildup is especially common in galvanized iron pipes. Plumbing issues caused by mineral buildup will continue until a professional updates your plumbing system.
Low water pressure could also come from an undetected water leak. Old plumbing pipes are not strong enough to handle exposure to acidic water. As pipes decline, they develop leaks that cause structural damage and mold infestation if they go unnoticed.
Low water pressure in one part of the home indicates a clog or water leak. While chemical treatment may remedy a small clog, professional treatment is the best way to completely clear your plumbing system.
Virus Exposure
It is not uncommon for a leaky sewer pipe to contaminate the municipal water supply. An outdated water treatment facility may not have proper procedures in place to thoroughly rid drinking water of bacteria and other contaminants.
Natural causes like a rogue tree root could break a pipe and invite mold to form. A mold infestation could thrive within your plumbing system, causing serious health problems.
Mold and bacteria growth is especially common in areas of the home that sit unused for days or weeks. Pay close attention to your guest bathroom or basement sink for signs of a compromised plumbing system. If problems go undetected in these areas, they can spread throughout your home, causing an expensive problem.
Bad-smelling water indicates a contaminated water supply. If you notice a sulfur-like odor, contact a professional plumber to ensure you do not ingest any contaminants.
Updating Your Plumbing
An outdated plumbing system could contribute to a number of health problems, but speaking with a professional can put your mind at ease. When a professional plumber refits your home with high-quality plumbing, you will notice an immediate improvement in your water quality. For example, clean water tastes better and will allow your washing machine to clean your clothes more thoroughly.
Professional Plumbing Services
Older homes have unique appeal and charm. An outdated plumbing system could harm you and your family. Old plumbing pipes can cause all sorts of problems within your home. The best way to ensure your water is safe for consumption is by calling a professional plumber.
When you experience a plumbing emergency, you need a professional plumber who can come to your home quickly. Green Energy Mechanical, Inc., in Canton, MA, answers calls 24/7. Call our team at 781-236-3421.
Author Bio:
Jonathan Neves
Worked in the HVAC industry since he was 17. He started as an HVAC service technician for commercial buildings and eventually came into the residential market because of his love of working with people. He believes that what really sets Green Energy Mechanical apart is how long they stand behind their work and how compassionate his employees are for their clients.
