How to stop pipe producing Copper Oxide stains?

matthewsulpizi

Under our bathroom sinks we have thin copper water pipes.

Though the pipe does not leak any water, due to condensation however, we are constantly getting copper oxide staining on our shelf making the back of the shelf unusable as we don't want our towels, products, etc to be covered in the blue-green copper oxide.

Any suggestions on the best way to solve this issue instead of just cleaning the stain from the shelf until it reoccurs?

A coating, pipe slip cover, sealent for the existent pipe?

Or a way to replaced the pipe?

EricL

Hello @matthewsulpizi 

Welcome to the Bunnings Workshop community. It's sensational to have you join us and thanks for sharing your question about stopping copper oxide stains. 

It is possible to clean the copper pipes with a lemon mix and seal it with Dulux 300g Metalshield Brass And Copper Enamel Clear Spray. But this won't stop the condensation happening under your sink. The smooth surface of the copper pipes serves as the perfect medium for condensation to occur.

Your second suggestion of replacing the pipes is a much better alternative as braided hoses do not have a smooth surface. I suggest looking at the Braided Flexi Hose for tapware use. 

I suggest engaging the services of a registered plumber as replacing copper pipe is an involved process. The repair process might involve soldering brass adapters in order to accommodate the Flexi Hose. The best part of course is that once replaced you can use the shelf of your vanity again.

If you have any other questions we can help with, please let us know.

Eric