Older Pipework
Older Pipework | Plumbing | Halls
Timeworn copper runs and cast-iron stacks weave through our historic Halls like hidden arteries, carrying comfort to every tap and radiator. HEP’s specialist team knows each bend and joint by heart, tracing decades of student life while eliminating the leaks, drips and cold spots that age can invite. Whether we’re delicately flushing antique galvanized lines or upgrading sections with modern, efficient materials, we keep the original character intact while restoring full flow and safety.
From urgent burst repairs at dawn to scheduled valve swaps during summer recess, our responsive approach means residents experience dependable heating and crystal-clear water all year round. Because great plumbing should be felt—never noticed—HEP quietly ensures yesterday’s pipework meets today’s expectations, and tomorrow’s too.
FAQs
Why does older pipework in Halls require special attention?
Pipework installed several decades ago was often made from materials such as galvanised steel, lead, or early-generation copper that corrode or degrade faster than modern alternatives. As pipes age, internal diameters narrow from scale build-up, joints loosen, and the likelihood of pin-hole leaks, discoloured water, and pressure loss increases. Regular inspections and timely upgrades are therefore essential to maintain water quality and prevent costly emergency repairs.
What are common signs that the existing pipes may need repair or replacement?
Typical warning signs include persistent leaks, rusty or brown-tinged water, reduced flow at taps, banging or whistling noises (‘water hammer’), and damp patches on walls or ceilings. In communal buildings like Halls, these symptoms can appear in multiple rooms simultaneously. If you notice any of these issues, report them immediately so the maintenance team can investigate before larger failures occur.
Is it possible to repair rather than replace sections of old pipework?
Yes. Localised repairs—such as replacing a corroded elbow, fitting a slip coupler over a small split, or inserting a flexible liner—are often viable and cost-effective. However, if more than 20–30 % of a run is compromised, if the pipe material is obsolete (e.g., lead), or if there have been repeated leaks in the same area, a full replacement is usually the safer long-term option. Our engineers will assess each case and recommend the most economical and least disruptive solution.
Will upgrading pipework disrupt residents in the Hall?
We aim to minimise inconvenience. Most planned replacements are scheduled during academic breaks or low-occupancy periods. When work must occur during term time, we phase it by floor or wing, provide at least 48 hours’ notice of any water shutdown, and install temporary bypasses wherever feasible. Dust screens, quiet-hour restrictions, and daily clean-ups further reduce impact on residents.
How does older pipework affect water quality and safety?
Ageing pipes can leach metals (iron, lead, and copper) or harbour biofilms that encourage bacteria such as Legionella. This can result in metallic-tasting water, staining on fixtures, or health risks for vulnerable individuals. We mitigate these issues through regular flushing programmes, bi-annual water testing, and progressive pipe replacement with WRAS-approved materials that meet current drinking-water regulations.
What preventive maintenance is recommended for legacy plumbing systems?
Key measures include: 1) annual visual inspections of all accessible pipe runs; 2) ultrasonic thickness testing on steel lines every five years; 3) scheduled valve exercising to prevent seizure; 4) installation of pressure-reducing valves to limit stress on weak joints; and 5) water-softening or corrosion-inhibitor dosing where local water is aggressive. Strict record-keeping allows us to trend deterioration and plan capital upgrades well before failures occur.