What can cause pin hole leaks in copper pipe.
pin holes usually show up more on hot water lines than cold water lines. there are many reasons a copper pipe can have pin holes. electrolysis, poor installation and corrosion to name a few.
Electrolysis
When galvanized and copper plumbing are connected in the plumbing of a house or building, electrolysis can happen. To prevent this reaction connect them with a dielectric fitting. This reaction also occurs when a ground wire touches a galvanized connection on a hot water heater. When electrolysis is ongoing, the copper pipe is pitted by corrosion, leading to a pinhole leak in the copper pipe.
Poor installation
Various errors in cutting and joining copper pipe segments at the time of original installation may hasten internal corrosion and cause pinhole leaks. Cuts made in piping must be clean and the pipe properly reamed out or water velocity and turbulence may cause premature leakage and failure.
Corrosion from old water heaters
As copper plumbing becomes old, pinhole leaks become increasingly common. Pinhole leaks can also be caused by particles of corrosion from old water heaters. When the interior of a hot water tank begins to corrode, steel particles can accumulate inside the copper hot-water pipes.
Higher water pressure
The internal water pressure, particularly in cold water supply pipes, is often elevated in spans of pipe located closest to the water main. Increased pressure means accelerated deterioration of the inside of the pipe and the appearance of pinhole leaks.
Age-related deterioration
Copper pipe reaches the end of its service life at approximately 25 to 30 years. In older homes, pinhole leaks are often the first sign that re-piping will soon be required to avert major ruptures and flooding. High mineral content in water is also a factor in reducing the expected service life of pipes.
