Our country’s iron pipes are crumbling — and more and more cities are turning to PVC pipes to replace their aging, outdated water systems.
Why? PVC pipes offer several advantages: longevity, durability – and strong value for U.S. taxpayers.
Cities are making the switch because PVC pipes are corrosion-resistant and designed to be in service decades longer than iron pipes. Utah State University researchers evaluated a cross-section of America’s existing water infrastructure systems and found PVC pipes to be the most durable option:
A major finding of the study is that PVC pipe has the lowest overall failure rate when compared to cast iron, ductile iron, concrete, steel and asbestos cement pipes. Another major finding is that corrosion is a major cause of water main breaks.
When it comes to taxpayer value, PVC pipe is unmatched. In Pleasanton, California, ductile iron pipe was found to cost 70 percent more than PVC pipe during a water line replacement project. In Tryon, North Carolina, taxpayers saved an estimated 30% by replacing their water lines with PVC pipe. In Burton, Michigan, PVC is projected to save taxpayers $2.2 million.
PVC pipe is designed to be in service for over 100 years. Because of its longevity, PVC pipe is a more sustainable material, as it requires fewer repairs and replacements over its lifetime. What’s more, its strength and durability result in fewer ruptures, minimizing loss of treated water.
The American Society of Civil Engineers estimates that across the country, a water main breaks every two minutes, losing roughly six billion gallons of treated water every day.
With regard to safety, since 1988, NSF International has maintained authorization for the use of PVC pipe in drinking water systems. The public can have confidence that the water they drink from PVC pipe systems is clean and safe.
On the other hand, iron pipes are susceptible to tuberculation, a form of internal corrosion and biofilm contamination, that can lead to leaks, bursts, and cracks. The National Academy of Sciences has even conducted a review that says legacy iron pipe materials may “contribute to Legionella growth in hot-water heaters.” As we see every day across the nation, especially during the cold winter months, aging iron pipe breaks can cause serious public health issues, including boiled water advisories, flooding, traffic congestion delaying the arrival of First Responders, among many other concerns.
Which cities are switching to PVC pipes?
A quick scan of public sources over the past two years found 45 instances where U.S. cities and townships have made the switch to PVC pipe. These regions have recognized that PVC pipe is the most durable, cost-efficient material available, offering the best value for taxpayers.