Blackened copper wire and pipes

[Jim Fleischmann]

Can someone give an explaination of the cause for copper wiring and water pipes to become discolored in a 50 year old home in southern Wisconsin.

Along with many other issues, this panel has no grounding conductor, just the grounded (neutral) conductor. The main service disconnect is at an exterior location. Blackened ground wires are also present in open junction boxes in other parts of the basement.

The stained/tarnished copper water pipes have a black soot-like film over them, but the black-iron pipe and steel conduit are absolutely clean.

There is a possibility of sewer gas entering the area from a nearby improper length laundry drain to a water trap.

This basement appears average for moisture content, with no other signs of chemicals, Chinese drywall, etc.

What's the explanation?

Jim Fleischmann
Eagle Eye LLC Home Inspections
608 751-6651
608 757-9299

[Roy D. Cooke, Sr]

http://www.nachi.org/forum/f22/black...er-lines-2837/

Go here ... Roy

[David A. Andersen]

Are you on a well?

The pattern on the water lines indicate condensation.

Sulfur dioxide (or other chemicals in the air from outgassing) combines with water and corrodes copper materials.
　

[Jim Fleischmann]

It is a private well system.

Jim Fleischmann
Eagle Eye LLC Home Inspections
608 751-6651
608 757-9299

[David A. Andersen]

Chemicals stored in the area of the electric panels and plumbing can cause this condition.
If the condition is widespread throughout the house, I would look at the well water as the source (not necessarily the cause).