Not all brass fittings are the same.

Last month we emphasized using brass fittings in plumbing, but not all brass fittings are the same. Because of water treatment regulations, the water that runs through many of our home and businesses contains components that react with and remove Zinc from brass. Over a period of time, the loss of that Zinc results in pourous brass that causes leaks and ultimately brass fitting failure. So, what do we do? The two main approaches are: 1) replace the failed brass fittings with a new brass that is made with less Zinc; and 2) add water filtration to your home at the point of water service entry. In the mean time, keep an eye on your water bill.