Older tracts, older pipe
Much of Anaheim's flatland was built up during the 1950s through the 1970s, and east Anaheim includes many single-story tract homes from that period. Many are slab-on-grade with copper supply lines, and some of the earliest may still have galvanized steel in places. Sewer laterals from that era are often cast iron or clay, and decades of tree growth mean roots in laterals are a familiar problem.
These homes are within the City of Anaheim, so water service comes from Anaheim Public Utilities and permits from the city.
Plumbing commonly found in homes of this era
| System | Common materials | Typical issues |
|---|---|---|
| Water supply | Copper; some galvanized steel in older homes | Under-slab leaks in copper; reduced flow and corrosion in galvanized |
| Sewer lateral | Cast iron or clay | Root intrusion, cracked or offset joints, corrosion in cast iron |
| Foundation | Mostly slab-on-grade | Supply lines under the floor, out of sight |
| Water heater | Garage or interior closet | Check seismic straps and the relief valve discharge |
Galvanized vs copper, if you have both
Galvanized steel
- Gray steel pipe with threaded joints
- Tends to corrode and narrow inside over time
- Low pressure or discolored water are common clues
Copper
- Reddish-brown pipe with soldered joints
- Under-slab failures often show as pinholes or wear
- Warm floors and a moving meter are common clues
Checks for an older east Anaheim home
- Identify your supply pipe material at the water heater and under sinks
- Run a meter test quarterly, and right away if the bill jumps
- Know where large trees sit relative to the sewer line
- If drains are slow, ask about a camera inspection of the lateral
- Keep a record of any earlier leak or sewer repairs
Who to call
- IfA supply leak is suspectedThenA licensed plumber for leak detection; check the license at cslb.ca.gov.
- IfSewage backs up into a tub or floor drainThenKeep people away from it, stop running water and call a plumber; ask the city if the public main is involved.
- IfMeter or water quality questionsThenAnaheim Public Utilities.
- IfGas smellThenLeave the house and call 911 or SoCalGas from outside.
Common questions
Is east Anaheim part of Anaheim Hills?
No. It is the flatter part of Anaheim west of the hills. This page is included because many of its homes are older and the leak issues differ.
Can galvanized pipe leak under a slab?
Yes, though galvanized more often shows up as reduced flow and corrosion. Either material can fail under a floor.
Are tree roots my problem or the city's?
It depends where the roots are and who is responsible for that section of sewer. Check with the City of Anaheim.
General information for Anaheim Hills, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.