October 24, 2022
What is galvanized pipe?
Galvanized pipe is steel pipe impregnated with a protective layer of zinc to prevent corrosion and rust. Galvanized pipes were installed in houses built before the 70s and 80s. When invented, galvanized pipes were an alternative to water supply lines. In reality, decades of water pipe exposure, resulting in galvanized pipe corrosion after rust.
What problems do galvanized pipes cause?
Low water pressure
Due to line limitations, corrosion in galvanized pipe will result in lower water pressure.
Unequal distribution of water
Some faucets have lower water pressure and others do not, a symptom of galvanized pipes. Corrosion will accumulate unevenly.
Water color
Galvanized pipes release iron and cause discoloration. A clear indication is a brown stain on a ceramic sink.
What is the galvanized pipe like?
Galvanized pipe is similar in appearance to nickel. But over time, galvanized pipes get darker and brighter, depending on their environment. Many houses with water pipes may be hard to tell apart at first glance.
How to confirm whether it is galvanized pipe?
If it is not possible to judge by looking at the pipes, you can quickly determine whether they are galvanized. All you need is a flathead screwdriver and a magnet. Find the pipe, then use a screwdriver to scrape the outside of the pipe.
Comparison results:
copper
The scratch area looks like a copper coin. The magnet doesn't stick to it.
plastic
The scratched area will appear milky white or black. The magnet doesn't stick to it
The scratch area will have a silver gray color. A strong magnet will stick to it.
Does galvanized pipe contain health?
Between the early stages of liberation, galvanized pipes installed on the water line were immersed in molten natural zinc. Naturally occurring zinc is impure, and the pipes are immersed in zinc that contains lead and other impurities. The galvanized coating extends the life of the steel pipe, but adds small amounts of lead and other substances that can harm residents.
