If your Central Oregon home was built before the 1960s, chances are you may have galvanized steel pipes hidden behind the walls. These aging plumbing systems were once the standard, but today, they pose serious health, safety, and efficiency concerns. In this blog, we’ll explore what galvanized pipes are, the risks they carry, and why replacing them is one of the smartest upgrades a homeowner in Bend, Redmond, Sisters, or Prineville can make.
🚰 What Are Galvanized Pipes?
Galvanized steel pipes are iron pipes coated with a layer of zinc to prevent corrosion. While this seemed like a great solution decades ago, over time the zinc coating wears away. What’s left? Rusty, corroding iron that restricts water flow and contaminates your drinking water.
Most galvanized pipes have a lifespan of 40 to 60 years. So if your house was built before 1980 and the pipes haven’t been replaced, you’re long past the expiration date.
⚠️ Warning Signs of Galvanized Pipes
Not sure if you have galvanized plumbing? Here are a few signs:
- Low water pressure, especially in multiple fixtures
- Rusty or discolored water, particularly when first turning on the tap
- Visible corrosion on exposed pipes
- Frequent pipe leaks or clogs
- Uneven water flow between hot and cold water
You can also check your piping by scratching it with a screwdriver: if it’s silver-gray and sticks to a magnet, it’s likely galvanized steel.
🧪 Health Risks: Lead Contamination
One of the most alarming issues with galvanized pipes is their association with lead. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), galvanized pipes can absorb lead from lead-based solder or service lines, then release it into your water supply over time — even if the original lead source is removed.
👉 Source: EPA – Protect Your Family from Lead in Your Home
Long-term lead exposure is linked to developmental problems in children, kidney damage, high blood pressure, and other serious health effects. If you have galvanized pipes, testing your water for lead is a must.
🛠️ Why Replacement Is the Best Option
While cleaning or lining old pipes may provide temporary fixes, full replacement is the only reliable long-term solution. Here’s why:
✅ Better Water Pressure
Modern plumbing materials like PEX or copper allow for better flow rates and consistent water pressure throughout your home.
✅ Healthier Water
New pipes eliminate the risk of rust, sediment buildup, and lead contamination — giving your family safer, cleaner water.
✅ Higher Home Value
Buyers and inspectors often flag galvanized piping as a major concern. Replacing your pipes now can protect your home’s resale value.
✅ Fewer Repairs
Old pipes are prone to leaks, clogs, and bursts — especially during Central Oregon’s cold snaps. New plumbing minimizes emergency calls and damage.
🧰 What Pipe Materials Are Recommended in Central Oregon?
Homes in Bend, Redmond, and surrounding areas often choose:
- PEX (Cross-Linked Polyethylene) – flexible, freeze-resistant, and cost-effective
- Copper – durable, long-lasting, and antimicrobial (but more expensive)
Each material has its pros and cons. A licensed plumber can help you choose the best option based on your home’s structure, budget, and water supply.
🏠 Local Considerations for Central Oregon Homes
With Central Oregon’s cold winters and hard water, galvanized pipes deteriorate even faster than in other regions. The area’s hard water minerals accelerate corrosion and scaling inside outdated pipes, causing premature failure.
👉 Source: USGS – Hard Water Map
Additionally, freezing temperatures can cause brittle old pipes to crack or burst — leading to costly water damage.
🔧 Call Einstein Pros: Repipe with Confidence
At Einstein Pros Central Oregon, we specialize in whole-home repiping with modern, code-compliant materials. Our experienced plumbing team will:
- Inspect and assess your existing system
- Recommend the most efficient and safe replacement materials
- Complete repiping with minimal disruption to your daily life
- Provide water testing and permits as needed
We proudly serve Bend, Redmond, Sisters, Prineville, and surrounding communities.
💡 Final Thoughts
Don’t wait until a burst pipe or health scare forces your hand. If your Central Oregon home still has galvanized pipes, proactive replacement is the smartest move you can make for your health, safety, and investment.
👉 Schedule a free inspection with Einstein Pros Central Oregon today, and take the first step toward safer, cleaner water.