When to Repair vs. Replace Plumbing Fixtures

Plumbing. It’s one of the most underappreciated parts of a building—until something goes wrong, that is. When something does go wrong, depending on the state of your plumbing, you may need to replace or repair it. Replacing plumbing fixtures or repair—which should you opt for?

Do Your Plumbing Fixtures Need to Be Replaced or Repaired?

black metal faucet So, how do you know if you must repair or replace your plumbing? To answer that question, you’ll need to inspect your plumbing fixtures and determine whether they’re outdated or still have some life in them.

Signs of Outdated Plumbing Systems

To help you know if your plumbing system is outdated, look out for these signs:

Discolored Water One of the signs of an outdated plumbing system is discolored water. When plumbing ages, one of the tell-tale signs is a brownish tint in the water. This is caused by rust seeping into the water. Sometimes, the water may not be colored but may have a cloudy look. The cloudy look is a sign of excess air in the pipes.

Discolored Pipes Another tell-tale sign of aging pipes is discolored pipes. Once in a while, inspect the visible parts of your plumbing and check for signs of discoloration, flaky metal, or corrosion.

Wet or Green Patches in the Yard While it may not be possible to inspect the pipes that run under your yard, there are ways to tell if it’s outdated. For example, if you notice an unusually green patch, it’s a sign of a leaking pipe—so is a wet patch.

Peeling Paint When you notice the paint peeling off your walls or ceiling, it’s another sign that your plumbing is falling apart. The bubbling and peeling is caused by moisture that could be from a leaking pipe. Besides peeling paint, check for mold, as it’s also a sign of a leak.

Rising Water Bills An increase in your water bill is a sure sign that there’s a leak in your plumbing system. Carefully inspect your house and yard to try and locate it. However, it will be faster and more efficient if done by a professional.

If all signs point to an outdated plumbing system, you may have to replace your plumbing.

The Benefits of Replacing Plumbing Fixtures

black shower head on white ceramic wall tiles Sometimes it’s inevitable. You just have to replace your plumbing instead of repairing it. Here are a few reasons and benefits of replacing your it:

Improved Functionality

One of the most significant advantages of replacing your plumbing fixtures is that it improves the functionality of your plumbing system. For example, your water pressure will improve as all leaks will be sorted out. Newer fixtures are also designed with better ergonomics, making them easier to use.

Financial Savings

Another notable benefit of replacing your plumbing fixtures is that it saves you money in the long run. Besides the cost of constant repairs, replacing your plumbing fixtures also helps reduce your utility bill, as it eliminates leaks.

Enhanced Aesthetics

Upgrading to newer fixtures comes with the advantage of giving your home a fresh modern look. With so many designs and styles to choose from, you can give your home a personalized look and feel.

The Lifespan of Faucets and Fixtures

When replacing plumbing fixtures, one aspect you must consider is the lifespan of faucets and fixtures. So, how long do they last? Depending on the water quality in your area and the amount of wear and tear your fixtures endure, your faucets and fixtures can last between 15-20 years.

Turn to Professional Replacement and Repair

Replacing plumbing fixtures can be tricky if you’re not sure of what you’re doing. Besides taking up a lot of your time, it could cost you more repairs if not done properly. That’s why you must turn to professionals to help you do the job.

Here at KC’s 23 1/2 Hour Plumbing, we’re always on standby to help you with all your plumbing needs. If you’re in the Coachella Valley area, call us any time at 760-327-8718, and we’ll be happy to help.