Clean, safe drinking water is essential for your health and home. But did you know that the condition of your Denver plumbing system plays a major role in water quality? Over time, pipes can corrode, clog, or deteriorate, leading to contamination, leaks, and even costly water damage.
As a Denver homeowner, keeping your pipes in top shape ensures reliable water flow, better water quality, and fewer plumbing emergencies. In this guide, we’ll share the best ways to maintain your drinking water pipes and when to call a professional for plumbing inspections and repairs.
At Bell Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical, we’ve been helping homeowners with their plumbing needs since 1926. Whether you need pipe maintenance, repairs, or replacements, our experienced Denver plumbers are here to help!
Understanding Your Home’s Water Supply System
Before we dive into maintenance tips, let’s go over how your home’s water pipes work.
How It Works
Water enters your home through the main water line, typically connected to the city’s supply or a private well. From there, it travels through a network of pipes to reach your faucets, appliances, and water heater.
Key Components of Your Plumbing System
- Main Water Line: The primary pipe that brings water into your home.
- Water Pipes (Copper, PEX, PVC, or Galvanized Steel): These distribute water throughout the house.
- Shut-Off Valves: Allow you to control water flow to different areas.
- Water Pressure Regulator: Keeps pressure levels safe to prevent pipe damage.
- Water Heater: Provides hot water for household use.
Maintaining these components helps prevent plumbing issues and ensures clean, high-quality drinking water.
Essential Tips to Keep Your Drinking Water Pipes in Great Shape
1. Watch for Signs of Pipe Corrosion
Older pipes, especially galvanized steel and copper, can corrode over time, affecting water pressure and quality.
Signs of corrosion include:
- Discolored or rusty water
- A metallic taste in your drinking water
- Frequent pipe leaks
Solution: Schedule regular plumbing inspections and consider replacing old pipes with modern materials like PEX or copper.
2. Prevent Hard Water Damage
Denver has moderately hard water, which means it contains high mineral content (calcium and magnesium). Over time, these minerals can build up inside pipes, reducing water flow and causing wear on fixtures.
Solution: Installing a water softener helps prevent mineral buildup, extending the lifespan of your pipes and appliances.
3. Avoid Chemical Drain Cleaners
Many store-bought drain cleaners contain harsh chemicals that can erode pipes, leading to leaks and potential water contamination.
Solution: Use natural alternatives like baking soda and vinegar, or contact a professional plumber for safe drain cleaning.
4. Insulate Pipes to Prevent Freezing
Denver’s cold winters can cause pipes to freeze, which may lead to burst pipes and extensive water damage.
Solution: Insulate exposed pipes in basements, attics, crawl spaces, and exterior walls to keep them from freezing.
5. Monitor Your Water Pressure
High water pressure (above 80 psi) puts stress on pipes, increasing the risk of leaks and bursts.
Solution: Install a water pressure regulator and check your home’s water pressure periodically. If your pressure is too high, call a plumber to adjust it.
6. Replace Old Pipes When Necessary
If your home was built before the 1980s, it might have outdated pipes made of lead, galvanized steel, or polybutylene—materials that can corrode or pose health risks.
Signs you need new pipes:
- Frequent leaks
- Low water pressure
- Discolored water
Solution: Upgrade to modern PEX or copper piping for better durability and water quality.
7. Be Careful What Goes Down the Drain
Certain household items can clog and damage your pipes over time.
Do not pour down your drains:
- Grease or cooking oil
- Coffee grounds
- Eggshells
- Hygiene products or paper towels
Solution: Use drain strainers and properly dispose of waste to prevent blockages.
8. Flush Your Pipes Regularly
If water sits stagnant in pipes for too long, bacteria and sediment can build up.
Solution: If you’ve been away from home for an extended period, run your taps for a few minutes to flush out old water and ensure freshness.
9. Schedule Regular Plumbing Inspections
Regular check-ups can help catch small issues before they turn into big problems.
Solution: Have a professional inspect your plumbing system annually to check for leaks, corrosion, and pressure issues.
The Risks of Neglecting Your Water Pipes
Ignoring pipe maintenance can lead to major plumbing problems, including:
- Contaminated Water – Corroded pipes can introduce rust, lead, or bacteria into your drinking water.
- Expensive Water Damage – A burst pipe can cause thousands of dollars in damage to walls, floors, and furniture.
- Reduced Water Pressure – Clogged or deteriorating pipes make it difficult to get the water flow you need.
- Higher Utility Bills – Leaky pipes waste gallons of water daily, increasing your water bill.
Don’t wait until a small issue becomes a big emergency—take action today.
When to Call a Professional Plumber in Denver
If you notice any of the following, it’s time to call a licensed plumber in Denver:
- Low water pressure
- Discolored or foul-smelling water
- Recurring pipe leaks
- Unusual noises in your pipes
DIY plumbing can be risky—it’s always best to call a trusted professional, like the ones at Bell.
Get Help from the Denver Plumbing Pros
Keeping your drinking water pipes in good shape ensures safe, clean water and a well-functioning home. By following these maintenance tips, you can prevent costly plumbing issues and extend the life of your pipes.
If you suspect problems with your water pipes, don’t wait. Whether you need pipe repairs, replacements, or maintenance, we’re here to help. Contact Bell Plumbing, Heating, Cooling & Electrical today for expert plumbing care in Denver.