Condensation dripping from copper pipe. Cause for concern?

[Browndawg80]

Occasionally I notice that condensation dripping from a copper water pipe in my basement falls into my sump which just happens to be underneath a section of the pipe. I've tasted the condensation and it doesn't taste like say a penny would, in fact it didn't have any taste at all but should I be concerned about it effecting my reef tank?

[PhaneSoul]

wouldn't condensation be like distilled water? that would make the water more prone to pulling copper out of the pipe. maybe you could collect a cup of water and test the tds of it? maybe put up a barrier around the test site and cup to try and keep other variables out of the equation.

I would still put insulation around the pipe and stop the dripping, doesn't sound good.

[barscaz]

I would imagine it will start to cause problems as the copper starts oxidize, if it's not already. When the copper turns blue/green or gets a white powdery look from the exposed wet area I can guarantee you'll be getting the copper in your tank. On a side note you may want to look into reducing humidity levels down there anyhow if you're getting that much condensation. Will cause issues with mold and floor joists etc. I can't imagine your basement is that hot or the pipe that cold to cause condensation issues at a normal humidity level.

[CafeReef]

I would recommend taking a stick of pvc, cut it in half and suspend it under the copper pipe to redirect the water from dripping into your sump, I would be more concerned about the buildup on the pipe than I would the water itself, the dust (dirt, skin particles etc) will drip with the water. I know dust is getting in there through the air anyways, but why add to it? When you can divert for cheap.

[ca1ore]

Originally Posted by PhaneSoul

wouldn't condensation be like distilled water? that would make the water more prone to pulling copper out of the pipe. maybe you could collect a cup of water and test the tds of it? maybe put up a barrier around the test site and cup to try and keep other variables out of the equation.

I would still put insulation around the pipe and stop the dripping, doesn't sound good.

I agree. Had something very similar in my basement. Tested the 'drippings' and there was detectable copper. Either run a dehumidifier or put up some kind of physical barrier. Assuming the water is condensing onto cold pipes, it's going to be pure and thus quite 'aggressive'.

[eddiereefs]

We used to treat ich with pennies so and water is the universal solvent so i would assume so

[mr.maroonsalty]

You should just insulate the pipe properly.

[KyleO]

Originally Posted by mr.maroonsalty

You should just insulate the pipe properly.

+1 ......insulate the pipe and no more issue

[DSMpunk]

Originally Posted by mr.maroonsalty

You should just insulate the pipe properly.

Yep. That's what I did. It takes less than 30 seconds to do and its cheap.

[gone fishin]

Some of that black foam pipe insulation should help out. Just my 2 cents.

[julie180]

There was a thread some time back about a guy that was having trouble keeping inverts and corals I think, it turned out to be condensation from copper pipes!! Get those thing insulated and direct the drips away from your sump.