Why Does Galvanized Plumbing Fail?
Galvanized plumbing is prone to failure due to the inherent design and material limitations.
Over time, galvanized steel pipes corrode from the inside out, which reduces water flow and affects water quality. The zinc coating meant to prevent rust eventually wears away, exposing the steel to oxidation and rust buildup. For more details, check out our article on what galvanized steel plumbing is.
As rust accumulates, it narrows the pipe's diameter, leading to reduced water pressure and potential blockages. Rust and mineral deposits can also cause uneven water distribution, worsening the problem.
These issues contribute to the eventual failure of galvanized plumbing systems, making it necessary to replace them with more durable, corrosion-resistant materials to ensure a reliable water supply and maintain plumbing integrity.
Why Is Low Water Pressure Caused by Galvanized Plumbing?
Low water pressure within galvanized plumbing systems can often be attributed to the progressive corrosion and buildup of rust within the pipes.
The interior of galvanized pipes experience rust accumulation that restricts water flow, causing a noticeable decrease in water pressure. This is particularly evident when multiple water outlets within a property, whether hot or cold, exhibit reduced flow.
Rust in your pipes can cause water to look discolored with a rusty tint and give it a metallic taste, due to the corrosion of both the zinc coating and the steel pipe. You might also notice lower water pressure, especially at hot water outlets, as the higher temperatures worsen rust buildup and further narrow the pipe.
This can lead to noticeably lower water pressure for hot water tasks like showers and dishwashing. If you're experiencing these issues, it's a clear sign that your galvanized pipes are clogged and need attention. For more tips on fixing low water pressure, check out our Ultimate Guide to Low Water Pressure.
How to Fix Low Water Pressure Caused by Galvanized Plumbing
Rusty galvanized pipes can't be fixed—the only solution is to replace them. Replacing your pipes gradually over time can end up being more expensive and disruptive than replacing them all at once.
Repiping your galvanized plumbing will not only remove rust-related blockages but also provide consistent water flow and pressure throughout your system.
Replacing your old pipes might be easier and more affordable than you think. At Repipe Specialists, we typically complete repipes in just one day, with a second day needed for wall patching. We take care of everything, including permits and inspections.
Most repipes are done with either PEX tubing or copper piping. For more details, check out our article on PEX repiping, which is the most popular pipe choice among our customers.
A Repipe Specialist consultant would be happy to explain all your options, either in person or in a remote consult session - schedule a free repipe quote.
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With over 75,000 repipes completed, we've perfected our One-Stop Repipe™ for your home.
Get a Quote for Repiping Your Galvanized Plumbing
Here at Repipe Specialists, we've fully replaced galvanized plumbing in over thousands of homes since 1991 using both copper piping and PEX tubing. We continually get positive customer feedback from customers about their overall home repipe experiences. We often exceed their expectations on:
- Speed: Our repipe crews typically complete a repipe in a day, returning on another day for wall patching.
- Convenience: Through our One-Stop Repipe™ process, we handle everything from permits, to wall patching, to inspections.
- Cleanliness: Our crews are trained to protect your home while working (we cover all surfaces with protective sheeting), and to clean up fully at the end of each day.
- Peace of Mind: Repipe Specialists is a fully licensed plumber in every state we operate in, and we back all of our repipes with a lifetime warranty.
- Financing programs: To help take the sting out of unplanned repipe expenses, we offer several financing programs.
- Price: As a specialist that performs hundreds of repipes a week, we can deliver high-quality repipes at a lower cost vs generalist plumbers. We have another article that cover whole house repipe cost factors in detail. Our quotes typically range from $4,500 to $15,000 depending on the size and complexity of your project.
Schedule a free in-home consult, and one of our local repipe consultants will explain all your repipe options and provide you with a written, fixed-price quote. Replace galvanized pipes and permanently boost your home's water pressure.