Black spots on copper pipes

Some of our copper pipes have black patches on them. Is this a problem?

Asked by jonathan on 12th Sep 2022
Expert Trade Answers
"If you see black copper, it may indicate the presence of high sulfur levels or other chemicals in the air, like sewer gas. It could also indicate that the pipe is coming into contact with other non-compatible metals, especially galvanized steel. The worst-case scenario for black copper water pipes is that the builder installed extremely cheap copper that contains a high amount of impurities. Over time, those impurities manifest themselves on the surface of the pipe.

Hope this helps"
Answered on 12th Sep 2022 - Member since Sep 2021 - report
"Copper is a reactive metal , oxidation is what these black spots are. In time, this could cause corrosion of the pipe , you could get the copper pipes cleaned or rub them down yourself, if a major concern you can have a plumber called out and take a look for you."
Answered on 20th Sep 2022 - Member since May 2019 - report
"It can be. It is usually the flux that has been used in the installation and hasn't been removed. if left it can corrode the copper pipe."
Answered on 12th Sep 2022 - Member since Apr 2019 - report
"Ruub pipe with steel wool..... if black dissapears its surface contamination only. No problem"
Answered on 20th Oct 2022 - Member since Jun 2022 - report
"The black marks will be from handling the copper it will be fine for a while"
Answered on 16th Sep 2022 - Member since Sep 2022 - report
"this could be old flux stains or mould they should not pose any problem for the tube."
Answered on 27th Feb 2023 - Member since Feb 2019 - report
"No, it's nothing to worry about, copper discolours by things like condensation, chemicals etc"
Answered on 1st Dec 2022 - Member since May 2020 - report
"Hi yes so this means that there is high sulfar content levels or the pipe is coming into contact whith other metals that will corrode the copper if its near concrete this is another problem."
Answered on 12th Sep 2022 - Member since Sep 2022 - report
"Hi
No is just some stain from anything or oxidation
So is no worries about"
Answered on 12th Sep 2022 - Member since Apr 2022 - report
Find Tradespeople, compare up to 3 quotes!
It's FREE and there are no obligations
Ask a Trade
Got a question that only a tradesperson can answer? We have thousands of trades ready to answer any question you may have.
Ask your question
Ask a Trade

Are you looking for advice on a DIY project or have a question for our tradespeople?

We'll email your question to tradespeople who are skilled in your chosen category.

Your question will be made public - please do not include any personal details.

{{ first(ask.errors)[0] }}

By continuing you agree to the Community Guidelines.

Report Content

{{ first(reportForm.errors) }}

Thank you

Your report has been created and will be investigated shortly.

Ready to get a price for your home improvement project?
Get started

Over 1 million homeowners and over 50,000 tradespeople
use MyJobQuote nationwide each year