Copper-era homes
The neighborhoods around West Coyote Hills in north Fullerton include homes built in later decades than the postwar tracts to the south. Houses of that generation were more commonly plumbed with copper than galvanized steel, and many sit on slabs.
Copper can serve for a long time, but after decades with hard water some homes begin to see pinhole leaks, especially in hot lines and lines under the slab. For owners here, the repipe question usually starts with a leak log rather than with rusty water.
Common symptoms and what they suggest
| Symptom | Possible meaning |
|---|---|
| One pinhole leak | Repair; keep logging |
| Repeat pinholes in different rooms | Copper thinning; discuss partial or whole-house options |
| Warm floor spot | Possible slab leak in a hot line |
| Green crust at joints | Slow seepage or corrosion; have it checked |
If a pinhole leak appears
- Stop the water.Close the fixture valve or the main shutoff.
- Record it.Add it to your leak log with location and date.
- Repair and inspect.Ask the plumber to show you the removed pipe's condition.
- Watch the pattern.A second or third leak is the time to discuss repiping.
Contacts
- Water service and meter: City of Fullerton water utility.
- Permits: City of Fullerton building division.
- Gas service: SoCalGas. If you smell gas, leave and call 911 or SoCalGas from outside.
- License check: cslb.ca.gov.
- HOA, if any, for exterior work rules.
Ask before a repipe here
- Is my copper Type M or Type L?
- Have the leaks been on hot, cold or both?
- Would rerouting the hot side solve it, or is the whole system thinning?
- Is my water pressure contributing?
Common questions
Is galvanized common here?
Less so than in older parts of Fullerton, though it depends on the house. Check your own pipe.
Is one pinhole leak a reason to repipe?
Usually not. A pattern of leaks is.
Does hard water matter for copper?
It can be one factor in long-term wear, along with pressure and installation.
General information for Fullerton, not a quote or professional advice. In an emergency, call 911.