When to Replace Plumbing Fixtures? Something that every homeowner will face at some point is replacing their plumbing fixtures. Whether you have purchased a home that is a little bit older, or you have owned your current home for a handful of years, you may be wondering if it’s time to replace some of your trusty kitchen and bathroom installations. As much as we would like them to, unfortunately these appliances and apparatuses do not last forever, and it’s important to know just when it’s time to update them, as to prevent serious problems from occurring.
SINKS
Depending on what material your sink is made out of, it is likely to last longer than you remain in your home for. Stainless steel typically lasts at least 15 years, with porcelain lasting slightly longer at around 20 years, and acrylic lasting the longest at around 50 years. With this considered, there are some scenarios that may cause you to replace your sink before this amount of time has passed. If your sink has been leaking, and standard repairs have not resulted in a lasting solution, replacement is the next step. In addition, if you are simply wanting to update the appearance of your bathroom or kitchen, replacing this appliance is a great option.
BATHTUBS
Similarly to sinks, the lifespan of your bathtub partially depends on the material it is made out of. The amount of use and the wear and tear that it endures also plays a big part in determining just how long this plumbing fixture will last before it needs replaced. Many homeowners attempt fixing or repairing their bathtub multiple times before replacing it, as this is a large undertaking, considering that the tile or surrounding area often needs to be replaced along with the tub. If your bathtub has been leaking or if there are multiple abrasions in the surface that make it difficult to keep clean, it may be time to look for a replacement.
FAUCETS
Most faucets will last at least 15 years, however, that number can fluctuate with usage and gradual weathering over time. The water supply and hardness of the tap water can play a big part in how soon you will need to replace your faucet as well. A leaky faucet that cannot be fixed despite multiple attempts at repair and adjustments, or one that is leaking from multiple parts or an area other than the spout, may be in need of replacement. In addition, if rust or corrosion has occurred, replacement may be your best option. In these scenarios, the cost of repairs may be equal or close to the cost of simply replacing the hardware, and a repair may not even provide a long-term solution like the replacement would.
TOILETS
Unless you are remodeling your bathroom, it is unlikely that you will need to replace your toilet. Other circumstances that you may consider replacement would be if the toilet bowl is cracking or if it is constantly running and no repair has provided a lasting solution. Or, if you are looking for a more efficient model or one that can accommodate disabilities or low-mobility individuals, replacing your toilet is the logical step to take.
GARBAGE DISPOSALS
Of all of the plumbing fixtures listed, garbage disposals are the ones that you will most likely have to replace soonest, and possibly more than once, depending on how long you stay in your home. Garbage disposals handle a lot of wear and tear, considering their job is to grind down large pieces of food into smaller bits. If you notice that it’s not doing as great of a job as it did at the beginning, or if there is a lingering odor even after disinfecting, replacing this device may be a good idea.
When to Replace Plumbing Fixtures
If you need assistance determining if your plumbing fixtures need replacement, or if you are looking for a qualified expert to attempt to make some repairs before replacing, look no further. Our team at Active Plumbing & Air Conditioning has the knowledge and experience to handle your plumbing problems and find the best solution for you. Contact us today! Follow us on Instagram or Facebook for daily tips.
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