Older homes come with a lot of character, but they can also come with some outdated plumbing that can cause serious problems. Mac offers some tips on what to do with old plumbing problems.
Old pipes in homes built before 1990’s
- Lead
- Lead can cause health problems such as aches, constipation fatigue, hypertension and anemia.
- Our bodies have no ability to purge lead unlike other toxins.
- The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends having your water tested by your water provider.
- Galvanized steel
- These pipes were used in homes built before the 1960’s.
- They featured a protective coating of zinc.
- As zinc erodes, the metal can corrode causing old pipes to clog with rust or break.
- Learn more about the hazards of galvanized pipes.
- Polybutylene
- These plastic pipings replaced copper water lines but they react chemically with oxidants that caused flaking and cracking.
- Any home built in the 1980’s or early 1990’s with polybutylene pipes need replacing.
Sewer lines
- Older sewer lines that fail can back up into your home.
- Extensive remodeling in older homes, with new appliances, can cause sewer line failure.
- Signs of failing sewer include:
- Foul-smelling wastewater backing into your home.
- An unpleasant smell of rotten eggs is a dead giveaway.
- Slow drains can indicate a partially blocked sewer line.
- Puddles or soft spots in your yard when it hasn’t rained recently.
- Gurgling pipes, which may indicate a pipe blockage.
Outdated fixtures
- Broken knobs on sinks, tubs, or showers.
- Leaks of any kind.
- Restricted water flow
If you notice any of these problems, call Mac Plumbing to avoid costly repairs later on.
Be prepared with a check-up from Mac and if you find yourself with plumbing or HVAC problems, be sure to contact Mac Plumbing, Heating & Air here or call us at (931) 552-5555.