Quick Answer:
Small chips or scale in fixtures immediately after new pipes are installed is common. Remove aerators, open a tub spout or hose bib and flush the downstream lines until the water runs clear. If fixtures are gritty, clean or replace cartridges. If debris keeps appearing, repeat the flush after 24 hours and consider a professional inspection.
Why This Happens
During pipe replacement, cutting, soldering, or pressure testing dislodges scale, pipe shavings and solder/sweat residue. That material travels downstream and lodges in faucets, showerheads, cartridges and in-line strainers. New pipework may also shed loose bits of flux or sand used during installation. The flow you see is the system clearing itself; without a focused purge, those particles collect in fixtures and appliances.
Step-by-Step What to Do
1. Prepare fixtures and remove aerators
- Turn off the water to fixtures only if needed to remove aerators or strainers safely.
- Unscrew and set aside aerators, showerheads and any inline strainers so they don’t trap debris and clog.
2. Flush the new line using a tub spout or hose bib
Open the tub spout or a hose bib on the same branch and run a strong flow. Purge until the water runs clear, checking faucets and shower outlets for particles. This is the most effective way to push loose material out of the new work. For whole-house clearing, run the lowest and highest fixtures at once to move debris through the system.
3. Clean or replace cartridges and strainers if gritty
If a faucet still feels gritty or sprays unevenly after flushing, remove the cartridge or replace the valve parts. Clean strainers and showerheads; if sediment has abrading the cartridge, replacement is often cheaper and more reliable than repair.
4. Purge again after 24 hours if debris persists
Some material dislodges slowly. If you still find chips a day later, repeat the same flush procedure. If there’s a tankless water heater or other appliance on the same run, follow manufacturer guidance before flushing it. See guidance on How to flush system after outage and be aware of problems like Sediment clogging tankless heaters when appliances are involved.
What Not to Do
- Don’t drink or cook with the water until debris stops and the water is visibly clear.
- Don’t run filtered/softened water appliances without checking strainers first — you can trap and damage filters.
- Don’t use harsh chemicals to try to dissolve particles inside fixtures; physical flushing and cleaning are safer and more effective.
When to Call a Professional
- If debris continues after repeated purges and cartridge replacements.
- If discharge includes oily residues, metallic flakes, or discoloration suggesting corrosion or contaminants beyond normal scale.
- If you suspect the new installation left loose connections, solder, or packing material inside the line.
- If you have a water heater, filtration system or pump that may be affected — a pro can protect sensitive equipment during flushing.
Safety Notes
- Avoid ingesting or using water for food preparation until it’s clear.
- If you collect flush water, dispose of it where it won’t stain or damage surfaces. Sediment can abrade fabrics and finishes.
- Shut off electrical appliances connected to water lines (like tankless heaters) before flushing if the manufacturer requires it.
Common Homeowner Questions
- How long should I expect debris to appear? Usually one flush clears most material; repeat once after 24 hours if needed.
- Will this hurt my water heater or filters? Small amounts of debris can clog filters and damage heater heat exchangers; protect or bypass appliances during a flush.
- Can a simple homeowner fix these issues? Yes — removing aerators, flushing via a tub spout/hose bib, and replacing gritty cartridges are routine tasks; call a pro if problems persist.