Are Older Copper Pipes Safe for Drinking Water?

Copper pipes have been used in homes for decades, but if your copper pipes have been around for a long time, they shouldn’t automatically be trusted. Like any material, copper can degrade over time, especially in homes built before the mid-1980s, when lead-based solder was still in use.

If you’re wondering, “Are copper pipes safe?” the short answer is generally yes, but only when they’re in good condition and properly installed. While copper has long been considered one of the safest and most durable choices for drinking water systems, modern materials like PEX now offer even greater resistance to corrosion, flexibility, and longer service life in many cases.

Whether you’re planning a remodel or dealing with aging plumbing, understanding the safety concerns around older copper pipes, and knowing when to consider a PEX upgrade, is key to protecting your home’s water quality.

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Why Copper Pipes Are Considered Safe

Copper is a naturally occurring mineral that’s essential to human health. It’s commonly found in trace amounts in foods like nuts, grains, and leafy greens and also in drinking water. Here’s why copper is considered a safe and reliable plumbing material:

• Durability: Copper resists corrosion and can last over 50 years with proper installation, though its lifespan depends on water conditions.
• Health & Safety: Copper pipes don’t leach harmful chemicals into your water, making them a safe choice for delivering clean drinking water.
• EPA Approved: Copper piping is approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and meets all major plumbing codes.

Additionally, copper’s antimicrobial properties make it resistant to bacteria and biofilm buildup inside pipes, a major plus for water safety.

Are Older Copper Pipes Still Safe for Drinking Water?

Yes, copper pipes are generally safe for drinking water, especially in modern plumbing systems that meet current codes and use lead-free materials. Trace levels of copper that may naturally dissolve into your water are typically harmless and can even be beneficial to health, supporting red blood cell formation and immune function (National Institutes of Health).

However, older copper pipes can present concerns. Over time, copper can corrode, particularly if exposed to acidic water or aging joints soldered with lead before 1986. This corrosion can lead to elevated copper levels or even lead contamination in your drinking water.

Compared to truly outdated materials like galvanized steel or lead, copper was a major improvement in its time. But if your home still relies on decades-old copper piping, it’s wise to have it inspected and consider replacement options like PEX, which offer modern advantages in safety, flexibility, and longevity.

When You Might Need to Pay Attention to Your Drinking Water Quality

While copper is safe in most conditions, there are a few scenarios that may warrant a closer look:

1. Old Solder Joints (Pre-1986)

Before lead-free solder was required, many homes used lead-based solder to join copper pipes. This could allow lead to leach into your water. If your home was built before 1986, have a plumber inspect your pipes and joints.

2. Highly Acidic Water

Rarely, aggressive or acidic water (low pH) can corrode copper faster. A simple home water testcan confirm your water’s pH and mineral content. If needed, corrosion can be prevented with pH adjustment or protective linings.

3. Hot Tap Water Use

Hot water can carry slightly more copper, but it’s still safe in a well-maintained system. It’s generally advised to use cold water for drinking and cooking, then heat it if needed, a best practice recommended by the EPA.

Why Copper is the Best Replacement Material

If you’re replacing old or corroded pipes, copper is still one of the best investments you can make. Here’s why:

• Long lifespan: often over 50 years (though this depends on water quality, especially when chloramine levels are high).
• Resistant to bacteria and biofilm buildup
• Fire- and heat-resistant: safer than plastics in high temperatures
• Increases home value with high-quality, code-compliant plumbing
• Eco-friendly and recyclable: can be reused and repurposed without losing quality

Together, these qualities make copper a reliable, long-lasting choice for plumbing replacements.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Pipes

If you notice any of the following, it might be time to repipe your home:

• Recurring leaks or pinhole leaks
• Low water pressure
• Discolored, metallic, or odd-tasting water
• Pipes installed before the mid-1980s

An inspection from a licensed plumber can determine whether repiping with copper is your best option for safe, long-term water quality.

Final Thoughts: Are Copper Pipes Safe for Drinking Water?

So, are copper pipes safe for drinking water?

Absolutely. Copper remains one of the most trusted and proven materials for delivering clean, safe water to your home. While certain conditions like old solder or acidic water deserve attention, modern copper plumbing, installed correctly, is a long-lasting, healthy choice.

If your plumbing is outdated or showing signs of wear, upgrading to new copper pipes ensures your family enjoys reliable, clean water for decades to come.

Upgrade to Safe, Modern Plumbing with Repipe1

If you’re considering a home repipe, don’t trust just anyone. Repipe1 is California’s leading repiping specialist, offering fast, clean, and affordable plumbing upgrades.

• Over 40,000  homes successfully repiped
• Copper and PEX options available
• Licensed, experienced factory  technicians
• Lifetime warranty on all workmanship
• Free in-home consultation

Enjoy clean, safe water with confidence. Call or schedule your free quote online today.