Low Water Pressure or Rusty Water? Old Galvanised Pipes Could Be the Cause

If you live in an older home in Bargo, Picton, Tahmoor, Thirlmere or elsewhere in the Wollondilly area and have noticed low water pressure, poor flow or rusty-looking water, your old galvanised water pipes could be the problem.

Galvanised steel pipework was commonly used for water services in older Australian homes. While it was a reliable option at the time, galvanised pipework can deteriorate internally as it ages. Rust and corrosion gradually build up inside the pipe and fittings, reducing the available opening for water to flow through.

At Platt’s Plumbing Services, we regularly inspect and repair ageing water services throughout Bargo and the wider Wollondilly area.

Recent Job – Rusted Galvanised Fittings Restricting Water Flow

We recently attended a property experiencing poor water flow and found significant internal rust and corrosion within the existing galvanised pipe fittings.

The fittings had deteriorated to the point where the internal waterway was heavily restricted. Although the pipework may have appeared relatively normal from the outside, the inside told a very different story.

This is a common problem with ageing galvanised plumbing. As corrosion continues to build internally, the effective diameter of the pipe becomes smaller and smaller, making it increasingly difficult for water to pass through.

Replacing the affected sections and fittings can significantly improve water flow where the old galvanised pipework is the source of the restriction.

What Happens to Galvanised Water Pipes Over Time?

Galvanised steel pipe is coated with zinc to help protect the steel underneath. As the pipework ages, this protective coating can deteriorate and corrosion can develop internally.

The inside of the pipe can gradually become covered in rust, scale and mineral deposits.

This can lead to:

• Low water pressure and poor flow

• Rusty or discoloured water

• Restricted water supply to taps, showers and fixtures

• Heavily corroded fittings

• Leaking or deteriorated pipework

• Complete blockage of badly affected sections

In severe cases, an old fitting may have only a small opening remaining for water to pass through.

Why Is My Water Pressure So Low?

Low water pressure can have several causes, so it’s important to properly investigate the problem rather than immediately assuming the entire water service needs replacing.

Possible causes can include a problem with the incoming water supply, faulty valves, pressure limiting valves, undersized pipework, leaks or restrictions within the water service.

However, in an older property with galvanised steel water pipes, internal corrosion should definitely be considered.

If the pressure or flow has gradually become worse over the years, or certain fixtures have noticeably poorer flow than others, restricted pipework or fittings may be contributing to the problem.

Can Old Galvanised Water Pipes Be Replaced?

Yes. Deteriorated galvanised water services can be replaced or upgraded using modern approved water pipework.

Depending on the condition and layout of the existing plumbing, this may involve replacing an individual restricted section or fitting, or renewing larger sections of the property’s water service.

The best approach depends on the condition of the existing system.

At Platt’s Plumbing Services, we can inspect the water service, identify likely restrictions and recommend a practical repair or replacement option.

Rusty Water Coming From Your Taps?

Rusty, brown or discoloured water can also be associated with ageing steel pipework.

If the discolouration appears regularly, particularly after water has been sitting in the pipes, deteriorating galvanised pipework may be contributing to the problem.

Water discolouration can have other causes as well, so having the system inspected can help determine whether the issue is within the property or coming from elsewhere in the water supply.

Plumber for Low Water Pressure in Bargo & Wollondilly

If you’re experiencing low water pressure, poor water flow or rusty water, don’t simply put up with it.

For older homes, the problem could be hiding inside the water pipes themselves.

Platt’s Plumbing Services provides water supply repairs, maintenance and pipework upgrades throughout Bargo, Picton, Tahmoor, Thirlmere, Wilton, Buxton and the wider Wollondilly area.

With 35+ years of plumbing experience, our family-run team can investigate the cause of poor water flow and recommend the appropriate solution.

Need Your Old Water Pipes Checked?

If you suspect your home has old galvanised water pipes or you’ve noticed your water pressure isn’t what it used to be, get in touch with Platt’s Plumbing Services to arrange an inspection.

Platt’s Plumbing Services – Your Local Bargo & Wollondilly Plumber

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