Why is there a green substance around pipes on furnace?

Question

I have noticed a greenish substance on top of my furnace around the fittings and pipes. If you are looking at the front of the unit right on top.

Is it anything to worry about?

Answer 1

It sounds like it's just the copper of the pipes oxidizing. You know how the Statue of Liberty is green? It's made out of copper. Nothing to worry about.

Answer 2

If your pipes are copper - that is oxydation. Copper turns green. The best pipes are copper.

To check for leaking, wipe it down with a paper towel to look for wetness. Next - mix a little dishwashing liquid with water and wipe it on with a Q-Tip. If it starts blowing bubbles... or you spy a leak - call a repairman. If not - don't worry about it.

Peace hon.

Answer 3

Corrosion

There are two types of copper corrosion: uniform and nonuniform. Both types are caused by certain characteristics of water chemistry, including low pH, high alkalinity, and the presence of sulfates or nitrates.

Uniform corrosion is identified by the presence of a relatively uniform deposition of copper corrosion by-products across the inner surface of a pipe wall and is typically associated with elevated copper levels at our taps.

Nonuniform corrosion, or pitting, is the isolated development of corrosion cells across the inner surface of a pipe wall. Although pitting corrosion is seldom associated with elevated levels of copper at our taps, excessive pitting corrosion can lead to “pinhole” leaks in the pipe, which could result in water damage and mold growth.

Answer 4

if the green is ONLY on the copper pipes, its oxidation and no worries....if its elsewhere, it could be mold and thats dangerous!
use bleach to kill it....

Answer 5

if it is in the basement it may be a type of mold...try wiping off with a damp cloth wet with diluted bleach.