Unless you live in a house that you only built in the last 5 to 10 years, you probably know very little about the condition of your plumbing system. Sure, you know it’s working, and maybe you know some of its parts or perhaps its age (thanks to your home inspection), chances are you know very little about the state of your home’s water system. However, if you’re starting to think it might be time to do some minor upgrades or perhaps a system overhaul, it will help to understand which items are strong indicators that a new plumbing system is beneficial.

Telltale signs that a new plumbing system is needed
No one likes catastrophe-based surprises at home, so before you find yourself dealing with burst pipes or an overflow, here are some signs to let you know changes are needed.

• water color – If your normally clear water starts to have a red or rust-colored tint, it is very likely that your pipes are older and have started to corrode, hence the color of rusty water. If this is ignored, the pipes will eventually burst and you will find yourself dealing with much more than installing new pipes. Pipe deterioration can also be indicated by an unpleasant or sour odor due to rust or even mold.
• pipe color – Look under your house and check the material your pipes are made of. Older houses are often made of lead, galvanized steel, or even cast iron. Most modern houses have brass, copper or PVC. If you notice any of the above materials, it is important to have a plumber come in to check their stability and determine how much “life” they have left. However, it should be noted that PVC has a shorter lifespan than the others (20-25 years), so even though it is newer, it does not necessarily mean that it is more durable!
• Exposed Pipes – In homes that are over 60 years old, there is a good chance that somewhere in your home there is an exposed pipe (or two). Take a few minutes to examine these pipes and note the condition. If they show signs of wear and age, consider having a professional plumbing crew inspect the rest of the system.
• water pressure – Low water pressure is a strong indication that your pipes may need repair or replacement. It may also simply be time to use a snake or pipe cleaner on your drains to remove clogs or overflows. Just this simple act can go a long way toward extending the life of your home’s plumbing.

You don’t have to be surprised by faulty plumbing. Talk to a local plumber and address any concerns before they become a problem. You will be glad you did!