As homes in the United States age, so do their plumbing systems, making iron filtration a critical investment for preserving both the house and the health of its inhabitants. In this article, we'll delve into four compelling reasons why you shouldn't overlook installing an iron filtration system in an older home.

The Degradation of Older Plumbing Systems

Older homes are often equipped with outdated plumbing that may be corroding and releasing iron into the water supply. Not only does this contaminate your water, but it also puts additional strain on an already aging infrastructure, accelerating the wear and tear.

The Correlation Between Age, Plumbing Materials, and Iron Contamination

Understanding the type of plumbing material in your home can help you better assess the risk of iron contamination. Here's how the era in which your home was built correlates with the type of plumbing material likely used:

• Pre-1960s: Lead and Galvanized Steel - Homes built before the 1960s often have lead or galvanized steel pipes. Over time, these materials can corrode, releasing not just iron but also potentially dangerous levels of lead into your water supply.
• 1960s-1980s: Copper - During this period, copper became the material of choice for plumbing. While copper is less likely to corrode than lead or steel, it's still susceptible to pinhole leaks and can release copper as well as trace amounts of iron into the water.
• Post-1980s: PVC and PEX - Newer homes often utilize PVC or PEX piping, which are less likely to introduce metal contaminants like iron into the water. However, if these newer materials are connected to older systems or fixtures, iron contamination remains a concern.

Regardless of when your home was built, older fixtures, appliances, and piping can still introduce excessive iron into your water system. Therefore, an iron filtration system becomes increasingly important in homes that have stood the test of time.

Rising Health Concerns

Excessive iron in your water supply can result in various health issues, such as gastrointestinal problems and increased risk of diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Older populations are especially vulnerable to these risks, making iron filtration crucial for aging homes. For a full breakdown of health risks caused by excessive iron, check out this article.

Preserving Home Value

An iron filtration system can significantly improve the quality of water in your home, thereby increasing its market value. Prospective buyers are more likely to invest in a home with a clean, safe water supply, making this a wise investment for the long term.

Preventing Aesthetic and Functional Issues

High iron content in water leads to several practical and aesthetic problems, including:

• Staining of bathroom fixtures
• Discoloration of laundry
• Foul taste and smell in drinking water
• Reduced efficiency and lifespan of water-dependent appliances

A good iron filtration system can eliminate these problems entirely. Our most recommended system that has left countless customers happy is the Katalox Light Advanced Iron Filter. This advanced iron filtration system provides a host of benefits that makes it stand out among its competition. If you're still unsure of what system is best for your home, our Ultimate Iron Filter Buying Guide is a fantastic resource that can provide you with the information you need.

Conclusion

Installing an iron filtration system in an older U.S. home is a beneficial long-term investment, safeguarding both your health and your property. With the degradation of plumbing systems, rising health concerns, the importance of preserving home value, and the prevention of both aesthetic and functional issues, the case for iron filtration becomes undeniably strong. For more insight on iron filtration as a whole, reference our complete guide to iron filtration.

We're Here To Help You

Don't hesitate to look to us for professional assistance. Our experts at Mid Atlantic Water have been helping customers make the right choice for their home's water problems for nearly 30 years. If you have any questions with water problems in your home or which iron filter is right for you, we're here to help. Contact us however you'd like:

• Text us at 443-277-2204 
• Give us a call at 800-460-5810 
• Email us at support@midatlanticwater.net.