Expert Riser Pipe Replacement in Washington DC

When you need an expert to assist with your upcoming closed-loop heating/chilled water riser piping replacement project in the DC metro area, call the pros at Quality Air Services.

A leak in a single riser pipe can wreak havoc in an apartment, condo, or multi-floor complex. You should call the riser pipe replacement professionals right away! Quality Air Services has over 25 years of experience performing expert riser pipe repair and re-pipe services throughout multi-family properties in Washington DC, and the surrounding areas.

Our technicians are among the best in the industry. We’re also available for after-hours emergency service for your peace of mind and convenience.

You can also call us for our expert fan coil unit services.

Signs Your Multi-Family Property May Need Closed Loop Chilled/Hot Water Riser Pipe Replacements Soon

Quality Air Services’ core client base started as typical multi-family properties built in the 1960s and 1970s. They utilized a closed loop central plant system for their air conditioning and heating needs.

At the heart of this closed loop system is a central plant (aka boiler room) that chills or heats water (seasonally dependent) pumped through the walls in each living space of the building.

Within each living space, the chilled/heated closed loop water traveling through those vertical “riser pipes” branches off onto every floor as it enters each fan coil unit, where the water is ultimately the refrigerant/fluid used to provide air conditioning or heating of the spaces.

As you might imagine, many of these pipes are anywhere from 40-65 years of age, as they are original to the buildings themselves.

During original construction in the 1960s and 1970s, connecting two dissimilar metals without using dielectric unions was common practice. Thus, the steel vertical riser piping was connected directly to the copper branch piping (which feeds each fan coil unit).

Unfortunately, these two metals don’t get along well in this environment, and galvanic corrosion is very common at the point of connection between the two types of piping.

At Quality Air Services, we see it daily, and we are very skilled in repairing and replacing this type of piping so that you can sleep at night without worrying about the next riser flooding behind your walls!

How Often Do You Need Riser Pipe Replacement?

There’s no hard and fast rule about when to replace any part of your mechanical or plumbing system, including the risers. However, here are a few guidelines.

Galvanized steel pipes are prone to corrosion and mineral buildup. If your building was made with galvanized plumbing, you can expect it to last 20-40 years. This doesn’t mean your pipes won’t last beyond that timeline. Still, you should have them assessed at some type of regular interval and begin the process of budgeting for their replacement so you are ready for the inevitability of their replacement.

Your area’s water quality and your building’s water treatment plan directly affect the longevity of your closed-loop system. Hard water and other contaminants can dramatically reduce the lifespan of your pipes, meaning you’ll have to replace them sooner.

Finally, regular inspections and maintenance are key to keeping your plumbing system in the best shape for as long as possible.

If you’re unsure what state your closed loop piping system is in, call your experts at Quality Air Services for a conversation about your options.

We also offer a full range of apartment and condominium mechanical and HVAC services.

Why Hire Quality Air Services

A quick Google search brings up dozens of contractors vying for your business. However, Quality Air Services is different.

Since opening our doors in 1998, we’ve become an industry leader throughout the District of Columbia and the surrounding metropolitan area. Here’s what you can expect when you hire us.

Customized Solutions for YOUR Unique Problem Set

Commercial and Residential Experience in Mechanical and HVAC Systems

Financing Options For Our Residential Clients

Competitive Prices

Available for After-Hours Emergencies

Largest stock of Fan Coil Units in the DMV

Whether you need a riser pipe assessment or a replacement, you can trust the experts at Quality Air Services to relieve your pipe leak stressors. Call us today at 301-495-9500 for reliable riser pipe installation and other riser pipe services.