How Often to Replace Plumbing Fixtures

Even with the best maintenance and cleaning, plumbing fixtures will start to wear out as time goes on. Plumbing fixtures are pieces of equipment that connect to the plumbing system. These can either drain or deliver water to or from the home and the sewer system.

Some examples of plumbing fixtures include bidets, bathtubs, showers, toilets, sinks, and faucets. Each of these has a different lifespan which can make it challenging to determine when it’s time to replace them.

Having that information on hand can give you a better idea of when things might go wrong so you can replace them as needed.

The Average Life of Typical Plumbing Fixtures

Every fixture is unique and its life of it can vary based on many factors. Wear and tear play into things. If someone is rough working with a handle, it can snap off, for example. A guest bathroom that is rarely used may never need its fixtures replaced. Other things, such as water quality, can also play into how fast a fixture becomes damaged.

Below is a list of common plumbing fixtures and the average lifespan. If you have items past this mark, a reputable plumber can replace them for you.

• Toilets – The main commode only needs to be replaced if it experiences a crack. However, other parts may need to be replaced more often. Toilet handles should be replaced if they need to be jiggled to flush the water. Fittings, fill vales, trap levels, and flappers tend to last around five years but additional wear and tear can reduce that number.
• Water heaters – These often last 10 to 15 years but leaks occur as they get older. The replacement may be needed if the pilot light goes out a lot, the heating element is failing, the valve sticks, or there are rust or leaks on the heater.
• Garbage disposals – These often last about 10 years but it’s important to consider how well the teeth are doing. If they aren’t working well, it can cause clogs and backups in the plumbing.
• Faucets – Most are replaced as an upgrade rather than because of damage. For instance, modern faucets might have new technology that results in using less water and are typically easier to repair.

If you have questions about whether a plumbing fixture needs to be replaced, contact Elk Grove Village Sewer & Plumbing, who can give you the answer. On top of that, they can remove the old fixture and install the new one for you. Reach out to a local plumber today to ask questions or set an appointment to replace your old plumbing fixtures.