How Do I Prevent Corrosion In My Water Systems?

July 12, 2023
Nick Piskura

Reading Time | 5 Minutes

Corrosion is the gradual destruction of a material by chemical or electrochemical reaction with its environment. In water systems, corrosion can occur in pipes, valves, and other components. It can lead to leaks, blockages, and other problems that can disrupt water service and cause costly repairs.

Protect Your Water System from Costly Corrosion

Stop leaks, scaling, and premature equipment failure with a customized corrosion control plan.

There are a number of things you can do to prevent corrosion in your water systems:

Choose the right materials. Not all materials are created equal when it comes to corrosion resistance. For example, copper and stainless steel are much more resistant to corrosion than iron or galvanized steel. When possible, choose materials that are known for their corrosion resistance for your water systems.
Maintain a proper pH level. The pH level of water is a measure of its acidity or alkalinity. A neutral pH level is 7, while a pH level below 7 is acidic and a pH level above 7 is alkaline. The ideal pH level for water systems is between 6.5 and 8.5. If the pH level is too low or too high, it can increase the risk of corrosion.
Add corrosion inhibitors. Corrosion inhibitors are chemicals that can be added to water to help protect against corrosion. There are a variety of different corrosion inhibitors available, so you can choose one that is specifically designed for your water system.
Flush your pipes regularly. Flushing your pipes helps to remove any sediment or other debris that can build up and cause corrosion. You should flush your pipes at least once a year, but more often if you live in an area with hard water.
Inspect your pipes regularly. Inspect your pipes for signs of corrosion, such as leaks, rust, or discolored water. If you see any signs of corrosion, it is important to have the problem repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Need the Right Corrosion Inhibitor for Your System?

ChemREADY helps you select and dose the proper corrosion inhibitors to match your water chemistry and operating conditions.

Here are some additional tips to help prevent corrosion in your water systems:

Use a water softener. A water softener can help to remove some of the minerals that can contribute to corrosion.
Install a corrosion control system. A corrosion control system can add chemicals or other treatments to your water to help protect against corrosion.
Keep your water temperature low. Hot water is more corrosive than cold water, so it is important to keep your water temperature as low as possible.
Avoid using harsh chemicals. Harsh chemicals, such as bleach, can damage pipes and contribute to corrosion.
Have your water tested regularly. Having your water tested regularly can help you to identify any problems with your water quality, such as high levels of acidity or alkalinity, that could lead to corrosion.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your water systems corrosion-free and ensure that your water is safe and reliable.

Don’t Wait for Corrosion to Cause Downtime

Proactive monitoring, testing, and treatment keep your pipes and equipment protected year-round.

Prefer to schedule a call?

Book a 30-minute conversation directly. We'll discuss your water treatment situation and whether working together makes sense.

Book a 30-minute call →

What to expect from a first conversation

We listen first — your situation, your timeline, your goals
We're honest about whether we're the right fit
If we're not, we'll point you to someone who is
No high-pressure close. Ever.
30 minutes. You'll know if it makes sense to continue.

Not ready to talk yet?

Take a look at our water treatment services first. See where you stand across chemical programs, system performance, and municipal compliance — then decide if a conversation makes sense.

Find out what a buyer would see →

Want to explore on your own terms?

Browse everything we do in water treatment — chemicals, equipment, and services — at your own pace, no conversation required.

Explore our water treatment solutions →

Are you an M&A advisor or PE firm?

We work with advisors who encounter infrastructure gaps in municipal water and drinking water client businesses. If you're looking for a referral partner for pre-sale readiness work, let's talk.

Learn about our partner program →