Copper Systems
Copper Systems | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Andersonville
When Andersonville’s vintage charm meets modern living, reliable plumbing becomes non-negotiable. HEP’s copper systems specialists bring decades of craftsmanship to every home, replacing tired galvanized or polybutylene lines with seamless, oxygen-free copper that resists corrosion and delivers crystal-clear water. From tight rowhouse basements to historic walk-ups, our licensed technicians work cleanly and quickly, protecting plaster walls and original woodwork while upgrading your water main, risers, and branch lines.
These precision pipe upgrades eliminate hidden leaks, boost water pressure, and future-proof your property against pinhole failures—often in just a single day. You’ll feel the difference every time you turn on the tap, and your home’s value will reflect it. Schedule a free in-home estimate today and see why Andersonville homeowners trust HEP to marry old-school durability with cutting-edge efficiency.
FAQs
Why should I upgrade my existing plumbing to copper piping?
Copper is the industry standard for reliability and longevity. It resists corrosion, tolerates high water pressure and temperature swings, and is naturally antimicrobial—an advantage for drinking-water quality. In older Andersonville homes built with galvanized steel or polybutylene lines, a switch to copper improves flow rate, eliminates rust or plastic taste in the water, and raises the overall value of the property.
What signs indicate my Andersonville home needs a copper pipe upgrade?
Common red flags are discolored or metallic-tasting water, frequent pin-hole leaks, reduced water pressure at multiple fixtures, visible corrosion or green/white buildup on exposed pipes, and plumbing that was installed before 1980. If your insurance company has flagged your home for outdated plumbing materials, that also signals it’s time for a copper repipe.
How much does a full copper repipe cost and how long does it take?
Pricing varies with square footage, number of fixtures, and accessibility of walls/ceilings, but most single-family homes in Andersonville fall between $4,000 and $12,000. A typical two-bath, 1,800-sq-ft house can be completed in 2–4 days, followed by drywall repair and paint touch-ups. We provide a fixed-price quote after an on-site inspection so there are no surprise add-ons.
Will my water be shut off during the project?
Yes, but only for short, planned intervals. We stage work so you’ll have water every morning and evening, and we always restore at least one working bathroom overnight. You’ll get a detailed schedule 48 hours before we start, so you can plan around any downtimes.
Do I need permits, and who handles code compliance?
The City of Chicago requires a plumbing permit and an inspection for any whole-house repipe within Andersonville. Our licensed plumbers pull the necessary permits, coordinate the city inspection, and ensure all materials and workmanship follow current Chicago Plumbing Code and Illinois lead-free requirements.
How long will new copper pipes last, and do they need special maintenance?
Type L hard copper—the grade we install—has a life expectancy of 50–70+ years. Routine maintenance is minimal: keep water pH within the city’s normal range, maintain water pressure below 80 psi, and avoid chemical drain cleaners that could attack solder joints. An annual plumbing inspection is the best way to catch minor issues before they escalate.