Water Quality
Water Quality | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Charleston
When strange tastes, low pressure, or discolored water start creeping into daily life, Charleston homeowners turn to HEP’s water quality plumbing team for fast, reliable relief. Our certified technicians trace problems to their source, replace aging galvanized or corroded lines, and balance your home’s entire water system—often in a single day—so every faucet runs clear and clean again.
These precise pipe upgrades remove rust-laden build-ups, improve flow rate, and safeguard appliances from mineral damage. We use high-grade copper, PEX, and eco-friendly installation techniques that protect your walls, landscaping, and wallet, all backed by transparent pricing and industry-leading warranties.
From historic downtown cottages to modern builds along the Ashley, HEP delivers courteous service, tidy workspaces, and the peace of mind that only pristine water can offer. Reach out today and experience why so many Charleston neighbors say, “Call HEP and consider it done!”
FAQs
Why should I consider upgrading my plumbing pipes in Charleston?
Many Charleston homes still contain aging galvanized steel or even lead service lines installed decades ago. These pipes corrode quickly in our warm, mineral-rich water, allowing rust, lead, and sediment to leach into your tap water. Upgrading to modern materials eliminates those contaminants, reduces the risk of pin-hole leaks, boosts resale value, and brings your plumbing up to current code—an important factor after the city’s recent amendments to the International Plumbing Code.
What pipe materials perform best with Charleston’s water supply?
For interior distribution lines, PEX-A and Type L copper are the most reliable choices. PEX-A resists scale build-up from our moderately hard water, withstands the humidity of Lowcountry crawl spaces, and offers flexible installation that minimizes wall damage. Type L copper is ideal where high heat or UV exposure is expected, such as near water heaters. For service lines from the meter to the house, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or copper are preferred because they tolerate coastal soil conditions and resist corrosion from brackish groundwater.
How do outdated pipes affect water quality and health?
Rusting galvanized pipes release iron oxide that can discolor water and stain fixtures. Lead service lines or old brass fittings can leach lead, a neurotoxin that is particularly harmful to children. Corroded pipes also create rough interior surfaces where bacteria such as Legionella can colonize. Upgrading eliminates those health hazards, and new NSF-61-certified materials keep your water tasting fresh and safe.
What happens during a whole-house repipe and how long does it take?
We start with an in-home assessment, water quality test, and detailed estimate. On repipe day we shut off the main valve, drain the system, and protect floors and furnishings. Our technicians then run new PEX or copper through attics, crawl spaces, or stub walls, using minimally invasive access panels to reduce drywall repair. Most single-family homes are completed in 2–4 days; larger historic properties downtown may take a week due to plaster walls and preservation requirements. Once installed, we pressure-test, disinfect, flush, and schedule the required city inspection before final patching and clean-up.
Will pipe upgrades improve water pressure and lower my utility bills?
Yes. Corroded steel pipes develop internal scale that can shrink the flow path by 50% or more, causing low shower pressure and slow-filling appliances. New ¾" trunk lines combined with balanced branch sizing restore full flow and often raise kitchen and bath pressure by 15–30 psi. Because modern pipes have smoother interiors, your water heater and dishwasher operate more efficiently, potentially trimming 3–5% off annual water-heating costs.
Do I need permits or inspections to replace plumbing pipes in Charleston, and can you handle that?
The City of Charleston requires a plumbing permit and a final inspection when more than 10 feet of existing pipe is replaced. Historic district homes may also need review by the Board of Architectural Review if walls or exterior surfaces are affected. Our licensed master plumbers pull all permits, coordinate with city inspectors, and provide completion documentation for your homeowners insurance. We also handle SCE&G or Dominion Energy coordination if gas lines need temporary shut-off during the project.