There are many different parts to a residential plumbing system, and all are important to some degree. One of the most crucial components is the water line, which brings fresh water into the house from the municipal system. Problems with your home’s water line can leave you without any running water at all—and that’s not a situation you can live with for more than a few hours.
Even though the water line is a vital part of a plumbing system, homeowners rarely think much about it. You probably haven’t given much consideration to your own home’s water line… and that can lead to problems as we’ll discuss below.
Many water lines are extremely old
Here’s a startling fact: almost 50% of the water lines in the U.S. are in poor shape. This comes from a 2010 report from the National Association of Water Companies and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Many water lines are over 40 years old, and the average age at which a water line tends to break is 47. If your house was built pre-1980, then the water line that serves it is fast approaching (or already into) this “danger zone” and should be replaced before major issues occur.
Outdated pipe material
One of the reasons for the decline in old pipes is the material from which they’re constructed. Pipes that were put in before the 1980s are usually made from clay or galvanized steel, and these materials will decay over time. Modern water lines are made from copper, which is corrosion-resistant and more likely to last. If your home has a steel or clay water line, we strongly recommend that you have it replaced.
Water line replacement is a large task, but you can count on our plumbers to handle it fast and right using the best in trenchless technology.
Ken Neyer Plumbing, Inc. provides service for water lines in Harrison, OH and throughout the Cincinnati Area.