Is Green Corrosion on Copper Pipes Dangerous in Lyndhurst, OH?

Do you want to learn more about your pipes and how to fix them? Contact Formica Plumbing and Sewer Co. at 440-485-3850 for expert help with your pipe system today!

Is green corrosion on copper pipes dangerous? If you've ever evaluated your discharge pipes, you may have noticed some green corrosion on the surface of the copper. Sometimes, after some time in a dark, damp place, copper pipes can become covered in white or green corrosion.

If you want to learn more about what this means for your pipes or sump pump system, allow one of Lyndhurst's professional plumbers at Formica Plumbing and Sewer Co. to explain everything you need to know about green copper pipe corrosion.

What Causes Green on Copper Pipes?

If you have a bluish-green hue on your copper pipes, odds are they've been subject to corrosion. This isn't necessarily a death sentence for your pipes since oxidation naturally occurs to copper over time.

When your pipes are exposed to a damp environment and oxygen, the oxidation process occurs, turning the surface of the pipes green. While not instantly a corruption to your water supply, if you don't treat it, it can lead to multiple problems down the pipeline.

Is Green Corrosion on Copper Pipes Dangerous?

If you notice signs of corrosion on your pipes, it's a good idea to fix them as soon as you can. Corrosion can harm not only your pipes but also those who consume the water from them. While light corrosion may not damage the structural integrity of your pipes, extensive corrosion can be harmful in many ways.

Discharge Line Damage

If your pipes are suffering from corrosion, damage will soon follow. Pipe corrosion can easily increase plumbing costs, as having a bottleneck in your system can lead to your system needing to work harder than it has to.

If your system is clogged, even just a little from buildup, this could lead to an increase in water bills. Cleaning the corrosion or replacing your pipes can help resolve the issue if you contact a professional. 

Water Contamination

While lightly corroded pipes present no health risk to your water, heavily corroded pipes do. Issues like gastrointestinal problems or copper poisoning can occur if anyone drinks contaminated water.

Luckily, the harm to your water is not tasteless, so you can detect it and correct your pipe issues before health issues come through. If you notice your water starting to taste unpleasant, you may have a corrosion problem in your pipes.

Appliance Damages

If your water is filled with copper, this isn't good for any appliances that use your system. Your dishwasher, washing machine, and even sink can lose efficiency if they are using corroded pipes to keep your water level up.

When checking your water, look for an unpleasant smell or taste to determine if it is contaminated. Or, simply examine your pipes to see if they are green with corrosion.

Pipe Structure Damage

If your pipes become too corroded, they may lose structural integrity. Pipes in your basement, serving your bathrooms, or running your hot water heater all rely on the sturdiness of their construction to do their jobs. To prevent flooding, consider having a professional examine your pipes with routine inspections.

If the corrosion worsens to a certain point, it may cause leaks or even pipe bursts. Getting a professional to help once you notice the signs of pipe corrosion is best for the safety of your appliances, pipes, and home.

Harmful Contaminates

If you're wondering, "Is green corrosion on copper pipes dangerous?" the answer is: maybe. Depending on the severity, you may need to act to fix your problem soon. 

Corrosion in your pipes means more than just potential copper poisoning. If you have enough buildup in your pipes, it may mean more harmful substances can contaminate your water.

Clogged discharge pipes or contaminated water pipes can lead to lead poisoning. Depending on any structural integrity issues with your pipes and the surrounding water table, other contaminants may make their way into your water supply if you have compromised pipes.

How To Remove Corrosion From Your Pipes

While the substance that forms on your pipes from corrosion is inert, it can cause damage. If your pipe is insignificantly touched with green, then this isn't cause for concern. If your oxidation has overtaken your pipes, however, you may need to take measures to fight against it:

Use a DIY Solution

If you want to clean your pipes from green oxidation, it isn't a difficult process to undertake at home. To create a DIY solution for cleaning your pipes, mix equal parts white vinegar, flour, salt, and baking soda. Cover the entire green area and give it up to 30 minutes to dry.

Once you've allowed some time to pass, wipe the substance off with some warm water and dry thoroughly. The salt helps scrub, while the flour, baking soda, and vinegar work against the oxidation process gradually.

Use Emery Cloth

Another way you can clean your pipes is by using a light grit emery cloth. This can help rub off the oxidation until the copper is clean. With a little acetone, use the emery cloth to vigorously wipe the affected area until the copper comes through clearly.

After cleaning the pipe, use a regular rag and some soapy water to sanitize the area. After cleaning, dry the pipe as well so that oxidization doesn't start again.

Trust Formica Plumbing and Sewer Co. for All Your Plumbing, Water Heater, and Sewer Needs

Now that you know the answer to the question, "Is green corrosion on copper pipes dangerous?" you can get some help to address it. Allow Formica Plumbing and Sewer Co. to teach you about six sewer line pipe materials to replace your pipes with and get your water back in working order. No job is too big or too small for our expert team serving Lyndhurst, Ohio.

Whether you need a water heater repair, replacement, or upgrade, you can depend on us. Call Formica Plumbing and Sewer Co. at 440-485-3850 to get started with your water pipe solutions today!