Whole-house plumbing refers to the entire network of water supply lines, drains, and fixtures throughout your home. This includes everything from the pipes in your walls and under your floors to faucets, toilets, showers, and appliances.

When the system is working properly, you likely do not think twice about it. Over time, corrosion and old pipes can lead to pressure drop issues throughout the home. Repiping an entire house ensures that you’re not just patching problems but updating the system for long-term reliability.

If you’ve quoted a price on a major repiping job, it is always good to get a second opinion.

Common Plumbing Issues Found in Older Homes

a Gotelli plumber at the entryway of a San Rafael home talking to a customer

In San Rafael, many homes were built decades ago using galvanized steel or copper piping. Over time, these materials can corrode, weaken, and develop pinhole leaks or blockages. Signs like low water pressure, rusty water, or recurring leaks may indicate more than just isolated trouble. We often find outdated fittings, improperly sloped drains, and older fixtures that no longer meet efficiency standards.

By the time leaks become visible, the damage behind walls or under floors may already be extensive. Preventative inspection and timely upgrades can stop small issues from turning into major repairs.

Replacing your home’s plumbing with modern PEX or copper piping not only restores flow and pressure, it also improves the energy efficiency of your entire plumbing system. Newer materials resist corrosion, handle temperature changes better, and last significantly longer. Homeowners who choose to upgrade also see savings from installing water-saving fixtures that lower monthly bills.

A well-planned repipe project includes isolating valves, smart routing, and often updated water heaters or filtration equipment. You’re not just fixing old problems, you’re setting your home up for decades of smooth performance.

Tips to Keep Your Plumbing Running Smoothly

Even with a full repipe, it pays to take care of your plumbing system year-round. We recommend regular professional inspections, especially if you notice drops in water pressure or changes in water color. Avoid using harsh drain chemicals, which can damage pipes and lead to premature wear.

Make sure outdoor hose bibs are protected during winter, and consider adding a pressure regulator if you don’t already have one. Installing a whole-home water filtration system can also help extend the life of your pipes and appliances by reducing mineral buildup and sediment. If you are ever unsure, give us a call and we’ll walk you through what your home needs.