Damage to your main water line is easily the worst problem for your water supply system. Most issues affecting your water pipes are limited to a section of your home’s water supply system. However, issues with the main water line affect the entire house, says East Bay Management.
That is because the main water line transports water from the city supply into your home. As a result, the condition of this pipeline influences your home’s water quality. If the main water line is in poor condition, it will manifest as various problems inside your home.
Issues that you may experience with the main water line include:
Tiny particles in the water supply can build up inside the water line. Debris from corrosion can also accumulate and restrict the flow of water.
Because it is in constant contact with water and the surrounding soil, your main water line is highly vulnerable to corrosion.
Plant roots around the main water line can penetrate it, thus interfering with the water supply.
The water line is usually safe from cold weather because it is buried below the frost line. However, it can still be affected by extreme cold.
In regions with hard water, mineral buildup inside pipes is a huge problem. These constant deposits narrow the pipe channels.
These problems can impair the function of a main water line. But if they are detected on time, the damage to the water line can be reversed. However, sometimes the damage is so severe that it is impossible to fix the line or doesn’t make any financial sense.
When this happens, the only option is to replace the water line.
Replacing a main water line is not something homeowners want to hear about. These projects cost a lot of money, and they are highly disruptive. Most homeowners will find a way to delay replacing their main water line for as long as possible.
But the time comes when a main water line replacement cannot be avoided. What you want to do when that time comes is ensure you have the proper information. This post explains everything you need to know before replacing your main water line.
Signs that your main water line is badly damaged
If you are facing some or all of these problems in your home, you may want to have a professional plumber do a comprehensive inspection of your main water line. If the water line shows these signs consistently, it is probably time to replace it.
This is caused by excessive buildup inside the water line. If the problem is from the city supply, it will affect your neighbors too. If not, the issue is from your main water line.
If the water bill is increasing but your water usage pattern has not changed, and the water rates are still the same, you may have a major leak in your main water line.
A chronically leaky main water line has become weakened. Due to natural wear and tear or damage, the material of the pipe may have become brittle. It should be replaced.
If the water is discolored, smelly or has a funny taste, it could be because of a leak in the water line or because the main water line is disintegrating from the inside.
What you should know before replacing your main water line
To replace the water line, you have three types of pipe material to choose from:
Copper pipes are the top-recommended pipe material for water lines. Although more expensive, copper piping will last long and guarantee the highest water quality.
This material is stronger and more flexible than the standard plastic pipes used in water lines. The water inside a PEX pipe may freeze without the pipe bursting.
This is a commoner kind of plastic piping. It is resistant to corrosion and relatively cheaper than the other two options.
Apart from choosing the right pipe material, you want to know the available water line replacement methods.
Finally, when planning to replace your main water line, you should not underestimate the value of having an experienced plumber by your side throughout. A reputable plumber can protect your wallet and help you avoid a lot of grief.