The problem with Copper…

Copper is actually a brilliant material that has been used in the world of plumbing for over 5 decades because of its excellent resistance to corrosion and contamination. So why are your Blackpool plumbers bringing copper corrosion to your attention? Is there really a problem?

Copper piping is said to last about 20 years, but there are occasions when corrosion can start within as little as two years. What are those occasions and what you should look for will be discussed here with the help of your Blackpool plumber, Poulton Plumbing.

3 Signs to help you Identify Copper Corrosion

These are some of the problems that can occur with copper pipes when corrosion is taking place;

A Pinhole Leak

If a leak has occurred because of a pinhole leak in the copper piping this is a sign of corrosion of the copper piping on the water surface side. As chemicals in water can change, this can affect the copper pipe. This is not a common event but when it does occur immediate plumbing assistance will be needed to access the extent of the internal corrosion. Pinhole leaks are more commonly found in older homes and cold water piping.

Pitting Corrosion

When we go for a stay vacation in Britain we may find that the water in a new place may feel different and taste different, we might say that the water is hard or soft. What does that mean? If water has a pH of 7 and above the water is hard. Pitting corrosion is most likely to occur in this bracket with cold water, leading to pipe failure. Water below a pH of 7 means the water is softer, pitting is less likely to happen but can still cause pipe failure. If the water is cold and soft with a higher pH above 8 then the effects are less severe.

Water Flow

If water is being forced through small pipes at a high pressure, this can erode copper pipes and cause other plumbing problems.

There are a number of solutions to combat copper corrosion. If you are having any of these problems call Poulton plumbing, your expert Blackpool plumber.