An older home on California’s Central Coast can have its share of character, but it also has a way of revealing itself through slow drains, odd noises from the pipes or low water pressure. You may be put off to wonder if such things are to be expected of a house with decades behind it.
We at Red’s On Time Plumbing have been of service to homeowners here since 1982 and are well aware of the peculiarities an older property will present. For any plumbing matters you want to put to rest, our number is (805) 669-2706. We cover San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles, Atascadero, Arroyo Grande and every community in between.
There is no denying the charm of an old home. Yet the plumbing put in place before there were modern standards is another story. As years go by the system will make its age known and in ways that can be a surprise.
Why Older Homes Have More Trouble with Their Plumbing
You will find many homes on the Central Coast that are several generations old. The materials of the day were the finest one could get, but plumbing has evolved. The good news is that with some knowledge most of these issues are not beyond repair.
What we come across most often in the older homes of the Central Coast:
- Galvanized steel or cast iron pipes that have corroded
- Mineral deposits in old pipes reducing water pressure
- Drains clogged with the debris of years
- A water heater past its prime and unable to meet demand
- Sewer lines damaged by tree roots and general wear and tear
- Gas lines which might not pass today’s safety requirements
- Hard water taking its toll on fixtures and appliances
Corroded and Outdated Pipes
The material of the pipe is often the trouble. Galvanized steel was used for years but it has a habit of corroding from within, constricting the flow of water. That will explain the poor pressure that cleaning alone will not remedy.
Then there is cast iron, a durable product found in much of the older construction. It is not invincible however; given enough time it will rust and crack and leak. An inspection is in order if the original piping is still in your home.
Sewer Line Problems
The sewer line is as old as the home in many cases. And they are apt to be running under the kind of landscaping and mature trees that have had time to put down roots. Those roots will find their way into the joints and small cracks of a sewer pipe after being lured by the moisture. Before long you have blockages and slow drains if not a backup. Clay and cast iron are particularly vulnerable. While regular drain cleaning is advisable, the line may require more than that.
How Old is Your Water Heater?
Chances are if the water heater was part of the house when you bought it, it has had better days. Efficiency wanes in an older unit and it will take its time heating up before it gives out altogether. All the while sediment is settling in the bottom of the tank and putting extra strain on the system. Rumbling from the tank or a quick depletion of hot water are telltale signs.
Hard Water
It is a fact of life for many on the Central Coast. In an older home you have had time for hard water to put down mineral deposits and scale in the pipes, clogging fixtures and wearing out appliances. Some form of water treatment will go a long way to preserve what is connected to your plumbing.
Gas Lines
One should be mindful of older gas lines. What was code when they were installed is not necessarily so now. Given the safety implications of gas work it is not a do it yourself job. Let a plumber who is licensed and insured do the inspecting and servicing.
A Word on Calling a Professional
There are times to wait and times not to. The smell of gas, water in an unexpected place or an abrupt loss of pressure warrants an immediate call. We are on hand 24/7 for any emergency repairs.
As a family owned business we have been in the Central Coast since 1982. Red’s On Time Plumbing is fully licensed and insured, an A+ rated firm with the Better Business Bureau and we provide free estimates and HCP financing. Should your home be exhibiting any plumbing difficulties, we would like to put our mind to it. Call (805) 669-2706 and let us look after your family.