If the plumbing system seems to be doing its job, you might be tempted to ignore it. Maybe the system was already in place when you moved into the home, and you’ve never given it much of a thought. However, updating the plumbing is a project that eventually becomes a necessity. Drawing from 42 years in the plumbing field, Temperature Control has put together some helpful tips for when you should replace the plumbing:

When to Replace Your Plumbing

• Lifespan of materials

  – You want to know what your pipes are made from. The lifespan of copper is about fifty years. Brass normally provides about 40 to 50 years of reliability. Cast iron remains functional anywhere between 75 and 100 years, while galvanized steel delivers between 20 and 50 years of use. PVC, a more modern option, lasts indefinitely.

• Fittings

  – The fittings can wear out quicker than the pipes. Pipe joints are sometimes made from different materials and can wear away. The constant wear and tear on mechanical fixtures typically leads to an earlier replacement than the pipes.

• Signs of failure

  – Look for corrosion, cracks or leaks in the pipes. Be aware of low water pressures, which can be a sign of a leak. Check crawl spaces and hidden areas where plumbing might be leaking. Don’t overlook signs of mold or musty smells. Inspect for wet baseboards, sagging ceilings, warped floors, water stains, bubbling paint and rust that indicate leaks and corroded pipes. Listen for hissing sounds inside walls. If the home is more than 60 years old, complete a thorough plumbing inspection every year.

• Deciding when and what to replace

  – You might not be prepared to replace the entire plumbing system. Plumbing in a utility room, crawl space or basement is exposed and less disruptive to update. If you remodel the kitchen or bathroom, it can be worthwhile to take down the walls and update the plumbing. For those rooms where you don’t want to tackle a major project or cut lots of holes, consider the advantages of PEX (polyethylene tubing). The material is flexible and can snake through walls without causing damage.

• Up to code

  – For older homes, the plumbing might be so outdated that it’s no longer up to code. If you’re debating on the right time to replace your pipes, call Temperature Control at (520) 815-5665 for an accurate and honest evaluation. We take care of all plumbing needs across Tucson, Casas Adobes, Catalina Foothills, Amphi, Flowing Wells, Oro Valley, Tortolita, and Catalina, AZ.

Contact Temperature Control for Your Plumbing Replacement Today