How to Prolong Your Poly B Pipes

Poly B pipes have a high rate of failure and should be replaced as soon as possible. If you do not currently have the resources for Vancouver repiping services at 604-Fix-Leak, there are a few ways to prolong the lifespan in the meantime. 

Turn Down the Water Heat

Hot water is the main cause of Poly B piping leaks. Polybutylene cannot handle high temperatures, and when the water temperature rises above 82 degrees Celsius, the heat causes the material to soften and become brittle. Over time, this can erode the material and lead to a leak or crack. 

To prolong the lifespan of your polybutylene, keep the water temperature between 55 - 80 degrees Celsius. Anything hotter will damage your pipes, and anything lower can cause mold to grow in your water heater.

Lower the Water Pressure

The other common cause of Poly B piping leaks is excessive water pressure. If you have Poly B pipes, we suggest keeping your water pressure between 35 - 45 PSI. When the water pressure is too high, it can rupture the joints, fittings, and entire sections of the pipe.

Replacing Poly B Piping Is the Best Option

It is estimated that over 200,000 homes in Canada still contain Poly B piping. If you own one of these properties, it is crucial to note that these techniques are not a long-term solution and will only minimize the risks of a pinhole leak, crack fitting, or pipe burst from occurring.

To protect your home from the potential danger of Poly B piping, you must fully replace all Polybutylene pipes with a more modern material such as PEX piping. When it comes to durability, PEX piping has no competitors, and its strong molecular structure can withstand higher temperatures and water pressure without any signs of wear and tear.

If you have Poly B piping, it must be replaced with a more modern and safe material. Contact 604-Fix-Leak today for immediate Vancouver repiping assistance. Our team of certified and licensed plumbers will offer honest advice.