Top 7 Signs You Need a Repipe (Before It’s Too Late!)

Is your plumbing trying to tell you something?

If you’ve noticed strange smells, discolored water, or low water pressure, those could be early warning signs you need a repipe. Many homeowners wait until it’s too late — and then get stuck with expensive water damage or mold repairs.

At LGE Prime Plumbing, we help San Diego homeowners spot trouble early and fix it fast with expert repiping services. Here are 7 signs to watch for — and what to do next.

1. Weak Water Pressure – 1st of Signs You Need A Repipe 

If your shower feels more like a drizzle than a downpour, your pipes could be the problem.

Low water pressure is one of the first signs your pipes are clogged or corroded inside. Over time, minerals from San Diego’s hard water build up and restrict flow. Old galvanized pipes are the worst offenders.

📍 Live in an older home? You’re more likely to deal with this issue.

👉 See how we fix this with a whole house repipe in San Diego

2. Your Water Looks Brown or Rusty

If you turn on the tap and see yellow, brown, or reddish water — that’s not normal.

That color comes from rust inside old pipes, and it means your plumbing is starting to break down. You don’t want to drink it, bathe in it, or cook with it.

🔗 Learn how to check your water quality from the EPA

3. You’re Fixing Leaks Over and Over Again

One leak? Sure, that happens. But two… three… five?

If you’re constantly calling for plumbing repairs, your pipes may be failing. Fixing one leak at a time might seem cheaper — but it adds up fast and never solves the real problem.

💡 A full repipe can save money in the long run.

4. You See Mold, Mildew, or Water Stains

Mold or mildew on your walls or ceiling could mean there’s a hidden leak somewhere in your plumbing system.

These leaks can happen behind walls or under floors — you might not even know they’re there until the damage is done.

🧼 Mold isn’t just gross — it can also be a health hazard.

5. Your Home Has Old or Outdated Pipes

If your home was built before the 1990s, you might have:

• Galvanized pipes, which rust from the inside out

• Polybutylene pipes, which are no longer allowed by building codes

Both of these materials fail over time and should be replaced.

6. Your Pipes Make Loud Noises

Do your pipes bang, rattle, or thud when you turn water on or off?

This is known as “water hammer,” and it’s a sign something isn’t right. It could mean your pipes are loose, old, or under too much pressure.

💥 Pipes that bang like this can burst unexpectedly. Don’t wait.

7. Your Plumbing Is Over 30 Years Old

Even if you’ve never had a leak, old plumbing is risky.

Most piping materials wear out after 30–50 years. San Diego’s climate and hard water speed up that process.

Here’s how long pipes typically last:

If your pipes are older than your microwave… it’s time to take a look.

Quick Checklist: Do You Need a Repipe?

Answer these questions:

• Is your water pressure weak?

• Do you see brown or rusty water?

• Are you fixing leaks more than once a year?

• Have you noticed mold, mildew, or water spots?

• Is your plumbing over 30 years old?

• Do your pipes make loud noises?

• Does your home have galvanized or polybutylene pipes?

If you said YES to two or more, it’s time to call us.

📞 Get your estimate from our San Diego repipe pros

Why Repiping Is Especially Important in San Diego

San Diego has a few things working against your plumbing:

• Hard water causes mineral buildup

• Coastal air can corrode exterior pipes

• Local codes require licensed professionals and permits

We know this because we live here too. Our team has handled repipes in Chula Vista, La Jolla, Eastlake, Del Mar, and more.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Wait for a Plumbing Disaster

The signs are there for a reason. If your water looks bad, pressure is weak, or you’re fixing leaks constantly — those are clear signs you need a repipe.

We make it easy, affordable, and stress-free.

✅ Family-owned
✅ Fully licensed & insured
✅ 5-star rated across San Diego