How often should plumbing be replaced?

When should you replace the plumbing in your home?

Plumbing is an essential part of creating a comfortable living environment for your family, so it is important to ensure that you look after your home's plumbing as best as you can. Like everything, plumbing eventually reaches the end of its lifetime and must be replaced, which might leave you wondering; how often should my home’s plumbing be replaced? If you don’t know how to answer this question, don’t worry.

This article will inform you of how often basic house plumbing components, such as: water supply pipes, drainage pipes, hot water systems, faucets, food waste disposal systems and washing machine supply hoses should be replaced. If you feel something is not working, give us a call and one of our expert Sydney plumber will be able to help.

How long do water supply pipes last?

The type, age and water colour of water supply pipes can be used to determine whether they need to be replaced. The general lifetime of some common types of water supply pipes include:

• Brass pipes, 80-100 years
• Copper pipes, 70-100 years
• Galvanised steel pipes, 80-100 years

It is important to remember that the times listed above start from when the pipes are initially installed. If you currently live in or are moving into an older home, it is best to check for the age of the current plumbing in place before deciding on when you will replace them. Older pipes are also more susceptible to damage from erosion, which can be caused by water pressure, acidity or temperature.

Discolouration in water supplied from these pipes can be caused by a number of things. Slightly brownish discoloration can be caused by rusty pipes, which isn’t extremely hazardous, but should not be left unfixed either. Blue or green water is often the result of old brass fittings or copper pipes. If the water from your supply pipes is black, you should immediately seek the assistance of a plumber as this can be caused by mould.

When do I need to replace drainage pipes?

Like water supply pipes, the time until replacement of a drainage pipe depends on its type.

• Cast iron pipes, 80 -100 years
• PVC pipes, 25-40 years

The lifetime of drainage pipes, especially ones below ground, can be severely affected by tree root intrusion. Root intrusion can cause multiple cracks in pipes and/or blockages, but it can be fixed by pipe relining or pipe patching depending on the severity of the damage.

Hot water systems

Hot water systems generally last for 10-15 years. Tankless systems last a bit longer and need replacing after 15-20 years. There are also some other signs that you may need a hot water replacement, such as:

• Ineffective heating due to a failing burner or heating component
• Leaks around the heater
• Rust around the heater
• Thermostat keeps breaking
• Tankless water heater circuit breaker is tripping

Washing machine supply hose

The water supply hose for a washing machine should be changed over every 3 years. If you are noticing cracks, discolouration, leaks, rust or any other obvious signs of deterioration, it is best to have your supply hose replaced. Also, if you can feel or see bubbles in the house, it needs replacement.

Taps

Obviously if you have a leaking tap, you need to have it replaced. Most people will change their faucets every 1-5 years for,

• Functionality purposes
• Higher water efficiency
• Aesthetics or a newer design

Before replacing a leaking tap for good, you can alternatively have a plumber complete a leaking tap repair if you wish to keep the same faucet design.

Food waste disposal systems

It is usually advised to replace your food disposal system every 10 years, however, if you are experiencing frequent clogs or a constant odour, you should have yours replaced or checked by a repair professional. It is important to follow the disposal guidelines provided by the manufacturer to ensure the product's full lifetime.

Your local Sydney plumbing professionals

If you are looking to replace the plumbing in your Sydney home, contact Pure Plumbing Professionals. We are experts in removing and replacing plumbing from all around your home, like in your kitchen or bathroom. Our team is professionally trained and qualified to complete a wide range of plumbing services. To discuss your plumbing replacement, call 9191 7374 or complete our plumber booking request form today.