Rusty Water
Rusty Water | Pipe Upgrades | Plumbing | Sewanee
When you turn on the tap in your Sewanee home, you expect crystal-clear water—not the reddish tint and metallic taste that come from corroded lines. HEP specializes in diagnosing and replacing the aging galvanized or iron pipes that lie at the heart of these issues, restoring both the purity of your water and the efficiency of your plumbing system. Our licensed technicians use modern materials like PEX and copper, advanced leak-detection equipment, and meticulous workmanship to ensure your new network of pipes stands the test of time.
Choose HEP for reliable pipe upgrades, and enjoy rust-free water, better pressure, and peace of mind. We schedule projects around your routine, protect your home with thorough clean-up, and back every installation with generous warranties. Call today for a free, same-day estimate and experience the hometown service Sewanee families have trusted for decades.
FAQs
What makes my tap water look rusty or orange in Sewanee?
The most common culprit is corrosion inside older galvanized–steel or cast-iron pipes. As these metals oxidize, iron rust flakes off and tints the water a yellow, brown, or orange color. Sewanee’s naturally mineral-rich water can accelerate this corrosion, especially in pipes that are 40–70 years old. Occasional municipal line flushing can stir up sediment too, but persistent discoloration almost always points to aging pipes inside the home.
How can I tell if I need a full pipe upgrade or a simple repair?
Look for chronic signs: (1) water that turns rusty after sitting overnight, (2) low or uneven water pressure, (3) pinhole leaks or damp drywall, (4) metallic taste or odor, and (5) visible corrosion on exposed pipe sections. A licensed plumber can run a camera through supply lines and measure iron content; if more than 25–30 percent of the pipe wall is degraded or you have multiple leaks, a whole-house repipe is usually more cost-effective than repeated spot repairs.
Which pipe materials are best for replacing rusty galvanized lines?
Most Sewanee homeowners choose one of three options: • PEX (cross-linked polyethylene): flexible, freeze-resistant, fast to install, and budget-friendly. • Type L Copper: long life span, naturally antimicrobial, and can handle high heat, but requires professional soldering and costs more. • CPVC: rigid plastic that resists corrosion and is less expensive than copper, but not as flexible as PEX. All three are approved by Tennessee plumbing codes; we’ll recommend the right material based on your water chemistry, budget, and future remodeling plans.
What does a whole-house pipe upgrade typically cost in Sewanee?
Prices vary with home size, material, and accessibility of your plumbing. As a rule of thumb: a 1-bath cottage may run $4,000–$6,000 with PEX and $7,000–$9,000 with copper. A 2- to 3-bath family home averages $6,500–$11,000 (PEX) or $10,000–$15,000 (copper). We provide a free on-site assessment and a fixed-price quote so you know the exact total before work begins.
Will new pipes really improve my family’s health and water quality?
Yes. Rust particles can carry bacteria and elevate iron levels, leaving stains on laundry and fixtures. Upgrading to modern, corrosion-resistant piping eliminates that rust source, resulting in clearer water with better taste and fewer plumbing-related contaminants. New pipes also allow full, stable water pressure, helping appliances like dishwashers and water heaters operate more efficiently.
How long does the repiping process take and will it tear up my house?
Most single-family homes in Sewanee can be completely repiped in 2–5 days. We use minimally invasive techniques—running new lines through attics, crawl spaces, and wall cavities—to limit drywall cuts to small access panels. Floors and landscaping usually remain undisturbed. After pressure testing and inspection, we patch and texture walls so they’re paint-ready, leaving you with fresh pipes and minimal mess.