Sweaty pipes turning green....

Joe_51

I know this is a plumbing question but you guys I'm sure have came across this problem too. I just started up the boiler that I finished in our new home( with hte help of Robert O'Conner) I'm on well water which comes out of the ground at 50.1 degrees, while filling the boiler and using domestic cold water I'm getting sweat on my copper pipes on the basement.The pipes are turning green at the solder joints. I know I probebly won't be able to stop the sweat but can I do anytthing to stop the pipes from turning green ??? It makes a good job look like hell. I was thinking maybe I could clean up the joints and spray them with a clear spray paint to seal the pipes.... Any thoughts....?

John_48

Green pipes

Try installing armaflex (Rubber instalation)over the pipes. It is used in AC line sets. If pipes are already together just split the armaflex insulation and glue it over the pipes.

ScottMP

Take a soapy

Towel and clean off the joints. Sounds like you have excess flux.

Scott

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Joe_51

Milme- the problem arises after very cold water runs through the pipes. After soldering and clean up the pipes look very professional John- I thoght of using armeflex but that either covers up the problem or sends the problem downsteam in the system. I'd rather have the pipes sweat in the basement rafters than in the walls or around the base of the toilet.. Thanks for both suggestions. Joey

ScottMP

Joey

That should'nt be the problem. Cold water running thru a pipe dos'nt turn them green other wise every pipe I've ever installed would be green !

I have had plenty of customers with well water just as cold and never had that problem. Is it happening every where or just the joints ?

If its every where I would look ofr air contaminets if the basbent like stored chlorine or paint thinner or the like.

Cold water alone dos not do that.

Scott

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jackchips_2

Joey,

You do not have a problem if you cover the pipes. This will keep the warm air from causing the condensate to build up on the cold piping and then dripping.

Covering the pipes may also raise the temperature enough to eliminate the sweating on the toilet although you may have to seek another solution: a drip tray or tempering valve are two.

There are many people who would like to have the reason for your problem: fresh, cold water.