Plumbing FAQ - Lomita, CA

Most Lomita homes built in the 1950s-1960s still have original galvanized pipes that are severely corroded after decades of exposure to Cal Water's hard water supply. The internal diameter of these pipes can be reduced by 50% or more from rust and mineral buildup, particularly in neighborhoods like Lomita Pines and Central Lomita where the original plumbing has never been updated.

Lomita's hard water from Cal Water creates soap scum and mineral deposits that combine with debris to form stubborn clogs, especially in homes with galvanized drain lines. The rough interior surfaces of corroded pipes trap materials more easily, making recurring clogs particularly common in 1950s-1960s tract homes throughout Lomita Pines and Western Lomita.

Cal Water supplies moderately hard water throughout Lomita, containing calcium and magnesium minerals that create scale buildup in pipes, fixtures, and appliances. This hard water accelerates corrosion in galvanized pipes, reduces water heater efficiency, and creates white deposits on faucets and showerheads, particularly affecting properties throughout Lomita Pines and the Narbonne Corridor.

Cal Water's moderately hard supply causes rapid sediment buildup in water heater tanks throughout Lomita, reducing efficiency and accelerating internal corrosion. The mineral content is particularly damaging to heating elements and tank interiors, making regular maintenance essential and often shortening lifespan by several years compared to soft water areas.

Slab leaks in post-war concrete foundations, main sewer line backups from root intrusion, and water heater failures from hard water damage are the most frequent emergency calls in Lomita. These issues are particularly common in neighborhoods like Lomita Pines and Central Lomita where original 1950s-1960s infrastructure is reaching end of life.

Post-war concrete slab construction methods used throughout Lomita's 1950s-1960s development embedded copper pipes directly in concrete without proper protection. Decades of ground movement, hard water corrosion, and thermal expansion have created widespread slab leak issues, particularly in tract homes throughout Lomita Pines and Central Lomita neighborhoods.

Homes with original galvanized plumbing from the 1950s-1960s throughout Lomita Pines, Central Lomita, and Western Lomita should consider repiping when experiencing low water pressure, recurring leaks, or discolored water. After 60-70 years with Cal Water's hard supply, these systems are typically beyond cost-effective repair.

Many Lomita homes built in the 1950s-1970s have undersized gas lines for modern high-efficiency appliances, particularly when installing tankless water heaters or large BTU ranges. Properties throughout Central Lomita and Western Lomita often need line sizing upgrades and new flexible connectors to meet current code requirements.

Commercial properties in Lomita must comply with California Plumbing Code and LA County modifications, including ADA accessibility requirements, backflow prevention, and water conservation standards. Businesses along Narbonne Avenue and near the Railroad Museum area require specific compliance for high-use fixtures and grease waste systems.

Bathroom remodels requiring plumbing changes need building permits through LA County, including rough and final plumbing inspections. Properties throughout Lomita must meet current code requirements for fixture efficiency and accessibility, particularly important when updating original bathrooms in post-war housing stock from the 1950s-1960s.