Green corrosion on a copper pipe is an indication that the metal is being exposed to moisture and air. The green patina forms in a process known as oxidation. If left untreated, it can affect the structural integrity of the copper pipe and lead to leaks and the failure of your water or central heating system.
Find the source of the problem
Before attempting to remove the green corrosion from your copper pipe, you must first identify why it has appeared. You may wish to bring in a plumber to perform a professional inspection of your system, since if any leaks or defects exist in your pipework, they will be able to rectify it for you quickly and efficiently. Often oxidisation occurs where pipework enters the wall which could indicate a damp issue.
A plumber will seal or solder any holes in the pipework or repair any damaged seals or joints, potentially using press-fit systems such as those offered by watkinspowis.co.uk/products/copper-pipe-fittings-and-press-systems/. However, they are unlikely to clean the green patina off your pipes. This is a job you will need to tackle yourself.
How to remove the green patina
Once the source of the oxidisation has been addressed, you can clean the copper pipe.
There are various ways in which you can achieve this, but a popular and cheap method is to mix equal amounts of baking soda, salt, white vinegar and flour with a little water to form a paste. Wipe this onto the oxidised area. After half an hour to an hour, remove it with warm, soapy water and then dry it well.
When you look after your copper pipe properly, you will be rewarded with an efficient, safe and aesthetically pleasing plumbing system that will serve you faithfully for years to come.
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