Wow. There are quite a number of scenarios that can cause the pin-hole leaks in underground copper water pipe. Yes, electrolysis is responsible. Is it from the soil or the water?

Our AC systems are not to blame. Sometimes, the way in which we connect our electrical systems to earth can be the problem or make the problem worse, or (yep) fix it. As you replace the failed piece, have it analyzed to determine the source. Then see if galvanic (cathodic) protection will work for you. Contact your water company. See what they have to say. You’ll have to badger them to get to the water quality people.

One thing I’d really like to make clear; if you choose to have your home-owners insurance cover the cost of repair, be prepared to be dropped at the next renewal cycle or have your rates triple. I was dropped for about $5k in repairs for an under-slab leak (southern California) – the first time it happened. The only insurance that would pick me up was one that wanted three times the rate I was originally paying. Sure, it’s not $5k worth of premiums, but it’s monies I never would have believed I would be made to pay.

There bad part is a database of homeowners that have had water damage (maybe other types too) and have turned it over to their home-owner’s insurance. It’s called CLUE. Once you’re on the list, it’s three years before you’re back to normal rates. Look it up. Darn depressing information. If you can afford the repairs out-of-pocket, and they’re not too bad, I’d do it. It really does no good to ask the insurer up front. They’ll be less than truthful. My agent couldn’t believe it happened.

The second time it happened (several feet from the original site), I recognized the symptoms and prevented damage to the structure. And, as it happened a second time, I knew the problem was not an isolated incident. Now your faced with re-piping. Big cost. I chose an alternative solution. Not necessarily cheaper, but certainly a whole lot less invasive – and guaranteed for ten years. Try a company called ACE Dura-flo at www.aceduraflow.com or at www.fixmypipes.com. Either will land you at the same site. There is a ton of information online about the increase in underground copper water pipe leaks. I like, and kinda align with the idea that, as water standards have become more strict and water is subsequently cleaner, there are fewer organics in the water to facilitate the patina (copper oxide) layer. Some believe the patina was responsible for protecting the interior of the copper pipe, allowing it to last for a very long time.

I have no holdings in this company. I do feel comfortable recommending them. They do what they say they’re going to do, when they say they’ll do it. That’s pretty good these days.

I’ve thought about systematically re-piping at my leisure… with plastic. There’s some pretty neat home water distribution systems out there.

Good luck.