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Lead Line Replacement Program: What you can do

Sep 9, 2024

Missouri American Water has a lead service line replacement program and we here at Kokesh Plumbing think you should know about it. Missouri American water has voluntarily pledged to replace all lead/ galvanized service lines in their service areas by 2030. In order to provide us with the safest, most reliable water service, they need to hear from us!  You can do your part by accessing the Missouri American Water website and find learning more! If you find that your service line is lead or galvanized steel, then MAW will work with you to replace it at no direct cost to you.

How do I find out if I have a lead/galvanized steel line?

Galvanized: A dull, silver-gray color. Use a magnet – strong magnets will typically cling to galvanized pipes

Copper: The color of a copper penny.

Plastic: Usually white, rigid pipe that is jointed to water supply piping with a clamp. Note: It can be other colors, including blue and black.

Lead: A dull, silver-gray color that is easily scratched with a coin. Use a magnet – strong magnets will NOT cling to lead pipes.

Lead service lines are typically found in homes that were built prior to 1930. Between 1930 and 1965, the plumbing industry moved away from lead and typically installed copper service lines. If you feel like your older home might have a lead/galvanized service line, there is a quick way of determining if that is true:

 YOU WILL NEED: Key or coin and a strong magnet

WHAT TO DO:

  1. Locate the service line pipe as it enters your home from an exterior wall or floor.
  2. If the pipe is a dull, silver-gray color, carefully scratch the pipe (like you would a lottery ticket) with a key or coin. Take care not to make a hole in the pipe. If the scratch turns a shiny silver color, it could be lead or galvanized steel.
  3. Place the strong magnet on the pipe. If a magnet sticks, it is a galvanized steel pipe.
  4. Wash hands after inspecting pipe.

OTHER WAYS TO CHECK FOR LEAD

  1. Kokesh Plumbing can inspect your pipes and plumbing, please give us a call at 636-391-1233 to set up an appointment.
  2. Lead test kits can be purchased at local hardware or home improvement stores. These kits are used to test paint, but can also be used to test pipe—not the water inside. Look for an EPA recognized kit. Wash your hands after inspecting plumbing and pipes.

Check out this map where you can review what MAW has as the material used in the service line and if it says unknown, you can self-report what the material is.

Click to view Material Map
Click to view Missouri American Water Lead + Drinking Water

If you have any questions or want to find out what type of service line you have in your home, please don’t hesitate to call us at 636-391-1233.

Old Plumbing Pipes and Systems

Feb 26, 2024

A Guide for Old Plumbing Pipes and Systems

St. Louis and West County have some amazing older homes and businesses. They bring a sense of timelessness and beauty to our streets and neighborhoods.

One part of older homes and businesses that isn’t so grand is the old plumbing pipes and systems that are in in place. These older pipes and water or waste systems can cause a number of problems, including leaks, clogs, water quality issues, and even property damage.

It is important to be aware of the signs that your plumbing system may be outdated and to take steps to address the problem before it causes serious damage.

The dangers of old plumbing pipes and systems:

In addition to the problems listed above, old plumbing pipes and systems can also pose a number of safety hazards. For example, corroded pipes can burst, releasing water and potentially dangerous gasses into your business. Additionally, old pipes can be more susceptible to leaks and clogs, which can lead to water damage and mold growth.

Signs of old plumbing pipes and systems:

Leaky faucets and pipes: Leaky faucets and pipes are a common sign of old plumbing. Leaks can waste water and lead to mold and mildew growth.

Low water pressure: If you have low water pressure, it could be a sign that your pipes are clogged or corroded.

Rusty or discolored water: Rusty or discolored water is a sign that your pipes are corroded. Corroded pipes can leak and burst, and they can also contaminate your drinking water.

Strange noises: If you hear strange noises coming from your pipes, such as banging or whistling, it could be a sign of a problem.

The age of your building: If your home/building was built before the 1960s, it is likely that your plumbing pipes and systems are outdated.

Slow drainage: If your drains are draining slowly, it could be a sign that they are clogged. Clogs can be caused by a variety of things, such as grease, hair, and soap scum.

Frequent repairs: If you are constantly having to repair your plumbing system, it could be a sign that it is outdated and needs to be replaced.

Apperance: The outward appearance of the faucets or pipes looks compromised.

Barnacles: Barnacles on cast iron pipes with or without leaking substances

The dangers of old plumbing pipes and systems:

In addition to the problems listed above, old plumbing pipes and systems can also pose a number of safety hazards. For example, corroded pipes can burst, releasing water and potentially dangerous gasses into your business.

Old pipes can be more susceptible to leaks and clogs, which can lead to water damage and mold growth.

If you do own an older home or business, here are some tips, that can help to extend the life of your plumbing system and avoid costly repairs.

  • Keep a record of your plumbing system maintenance. This will help you to track when your system was last inspected and what repairs or maintenance were performed.
  • Have a plan for dealing with plumbing emergencies. This plan should include a list of qualified plumbers who you can call in the event of a problem.
  • Consider investing in a plumbing maintenance contract. This type of contract can help you to save money on plumbing repairs and maintenance in the long run.

How Kokesh Plumbing can help:

Kokesh Plumbing is a full-service plumbing company that specializes in residential and commercial plumbing. We have the experience and expertise to handle all types of plumbing problems, including old plumbing pipes and systems. We can assess your plumbing system and recommend the best course of action to keep your business running smoothly.
If you are concerned about the age of your plumbing pipes and systems, contact Kokesh Plumbing @ 636-391-1233 today for a free consultation. We will assess your plumbing system and recommend the best course of action to keep your business running smoothly and protect your property from damage.