Homes across Seattle, Kirkland, and Bellevue still have plumbing systems that use old galvanized fittings. These small pieces of metal may look harmless, but over time they can corrode and send rust through water lines. That rust not only stains fixtures but also shortens the life of faucets, valves, and appliances.
A single galvanized connection near your water heater can start this chain reaction. Once corrosion begins, it spreads quietly through the system until faucets start dripping or turning brown. The good news is that homeowners can stop the damage early with simple steps and timely maintenance.
Step 1: Spot the Warning Signs of Rusty Pipes
Rust starts small but shows clear signs when it begins to affect your water system. The first clue is a change in water color. If your water looks orange or yellow when it first runs, corrosion has likely begun inside the pipes.
Another sign is reduced water pressure. Rust buildup narrows the inside of the pipe, slowing the flow to faucets and showers. Faucets that start dripping even after replacement cartridges can also point to rust particles wearing down the seals.
Stains around fixtures or inside sinks and tubs often confirm that corrosion is active. If these signs appear, the next step is to look at your water heater and the fittings attached to it.
Step 2: Check Your Water Heater Connections
Water heaters are common places to find leftover galvanized fittings. Many were installed years ago when builders or repair technicians used whatever parts were available. In some cases, plumbers still use them because they cost a few dollars less than brass or copper fittings.
These small savings create long-term problems. Galvanized parts react with water and oxygen, forming rust that flakes off and travels through the system. The area around the expansion tank is a frequent trouble spot. If you see dull gray fittings or threaded sections showing orange stains, those parts are corroding.
A quick visual check once a year can prevent major damage later. Replacing a few fittings early is easier and far cheaper than replacing faucets or cleaning sediment from appliances.
Step 3: Understand the Risk of Mixed Metals
Plumbing systems use different metals — copper, brass, steel — each with its own electrical properties. When two unlike metals connect, a small electric current forms and starts a reaction called galvanic corrosion. The weaker metal, usually the galvanized steel, breaks down first.
This process happens slowly but never stops once started. Even one short section of galvanized pipe connected to brass or copper will eventually rust. The rust then enters the water line and spreads through valves and fixtures.
Replacing these connections with compatible materials eliminates the reaction. That’s why professional plumbers prefer all-brass fittings for water heater connections, mixing valves, and expansion tanks. Brass lasts longer, resists corrosion, and keeps water cleaner.
Step 4: Replace Galvanized Fittings with Brass
The most effective way to stop rust is to remove every galvanized fitting from your system. Start with visible areas near the water heater, expansion tank, and main shut-off valve.
A licensed plumber can identify all galvanized parts and replace them with brass or copper. Brass is the best choice for long-term reliability. It resists corrosion, maintains good water flow, and doesn’t flake rust into fixtures.
The replacement process is quick for small sections and can often be done during a routine service call. Once the old fittings are removed, your water will stay cleaner and your faucets will last much longer.
Step 5: Flush Rust Out of Your System
Even after removing galvanized parts, some rust may remain inside the lines. A professional flushing helps clear out these particles before they cause new problems.
Flushing involves running clean water at high flow through each line to push out sediment. Homeowners can do a light version by opening all faucets for several minutes after repairs. But a full flush by a plumber ensures that sediment is cleared from the water heater and internal piping as well.
If the water heater tank itself shows signs of corrosion or heavy scale, replacing it may be the better option. Newer models operate more efficiently and are built with corrosion-resistant materials.
Step 6: Protect Your Faucets and Fixtures
Rust and scale damage modern faucet components quickly. Small particles collect inside the cartridges, wear out seals, and cause drips that won’t stop even with new parts. The same debris clogs aerators, shower heads, and appliance filters.
Regular cleaning helps, but prevention is better. Once brass fittings are installed and lines are flushed, your faucets and appliances work more smoothly. The difference shows up in better water flow, cleaner water, and fewer repairs.
Replacing a few fittings now can extend the life of every fixture in the house. Homeowners who make these upgrades often notice quieter plumbing, steadier pressure, and fewer service calls.
Step 7: Schedule Regular Plumbing Inspections
Small issues grow when ignored. A quick yearly inspection keeps them from turning into leaks or replacements. During a maintenance visit, a plumber checks for rust stains, pressure irregularities, and aging fittings.
Seattle, Kirkland, and Bellevue homes are especially at risk because many were built before 1980, when galvanized pipes were common. Local water quality and soil conditions speed up corrosion in older systems.
Routine inspections let homeowners plan ahead instead of reacting to emergencies. Catching corrosion early also protects flooring, cabinets, and drywall from water damage caused by slow leaks.
If your home still has any galvanized parts or you see rust near the water heater, it’s time for an upgrade. RooterPal Plumbing replaces all galvanized fittings with durable brass connections and performs full system checks to confirm clean, steady water throughout your home.
Conclusion
Corrosion is quiet but persistent. Most homeowners don’t realize they have a problem until faucets drip or water turns rusty. Taking small steps—visual checks, replacing fittings, flushing lines, and scheduling inspections—saves thousands of dollars over time.
Professional service goes beyond fixing a leak. It restores confidence that your plumbing is safe and built to last. With reliable materials and expert installation, you can trust that your water system will stay clear, steady, and free from rust.
For homeowners across Seattle, Kirkland, and Bellevue, RooterPal Plumbing provides the inspection, materials, and care needed to stop corrosion at the source and protect every faucet in your home.