Galvanized Service Line Leaks

If your home was built before 1960, it is likely your service line is made of galvanized steel. To determine the material of your pipes, brush off any rust and debris on the pipe, then use a household magnet to see if it sticks to the pipe. A magnet will stick to galvanized steel. An alternative would be to contact a qualified plumber.

If your home has galvanized steel pipes, it’s important to know how old they are. Pipes installed in the 1960s or earlier that haven’t been replaced are likely nearing the end of their lifespan.

Because galvanized pipes are made of steel and often located underground, they naturally corrode over time. After about 40 to 50 years, they may lose strength and begin to leak.

If your pipes are more than 40 years old, you may want to consult a qualified plumber. However, age alone doesn’t mean they must be replaced. Although they are no longer commonly used for new installations, galvanized pipes can still function properly as long as they remain in good condition.

Below are some common signs that there may be a leak within your galvanized service line:

• Low water pressure: As galvanized pipes age, corrosion products can accumulate on the insides, reducing the space where water can flow, and may cause low water pressure.
• Patches of extra green grass in your yard: If you have wet patches in your yard or areas where the grass and/or landscaping is always extra healthy you may have a water leak, especially if this area is along the same path as your water service line. This same phenomenon can also occur along leaky irrigation piping, which should also be addressed.
• Water stains: Even if you do not see a leak or wetness, a water stain means that water has been leaking. This is a major problem, as a small leak can quickly become a bigger one.
• Use AMI:
  • ACWD has installed Advanced Metering Infrastructure (AMI) - A new technology that reads your water meter remotely and alerts you to possible leaks.
  • Simply log into your ACWD My Smart Water Connect portal account to view your consumption. If you have continuous consumption every interval throughout the day, particularly for multiple days in a row, you may have a leak.  Use this step-by-step guide for using AMI to check for leaks.
  • Perform a leak isolation test.

Alternatively, a qualified leak detection service or plumber will be able to assist you with locating leaks on your service lines.

Plumbing repairs and replacements can be costly, so it's important to understand what ACWD maintains and what belongs to the property owner.

ACWD is responsible for the water line in the street, the service line to the meter, the meter box and lid, and the water meter. 

Homeowners are responsible for all plumbing from the meter connection into the property, including the service line to the house and all household plumbing. It's important to keep the plumbing in a serviceable condition to ensure uninterrupted water service and prevent water waste. 

ACWD has arranged for HomeServe, an independent home repair company to offer optional emergency service plans. For more information click here.