A faucet that isn’t working the way it should be incredibly frustrating. The constant dripping of a leaky faucet will certainly increase your anxiety levels, and will also cost you $20 – $200 per year in wasted water.

You may be willing to try a few repairs to try to sort out your leaking faucet, but the damaged faucet could have deteriorated to the point that you will have to completely replace it.

It is important to know when to replace a damaged faucet. See the comprehensive list below of a few warning signs indicating when it is time to install new faucets when a DIY fix will no longer work.

Retro Kitchen FaucetPhoto credit: Pexels

When is it time to replace and not repair your faucets?

#1 If your leaky faucet constantly need repairs

One of the most common signs to replace leaky faucets is the faucets need constant repairs.

A couple of repairs here and there may be more affordable than replacing the entire faucet, but if it is a constant series of repairs and the faucet continues to drip, you may save money by simply replacing it.

#2 If you want a more efficient faucet

Older faucets are less water-efficient than modern faucets, running about 3 – 5 gallons per minute.

If you find your utility costs are incredibly high, or you just want to be a bit more environmentally conscious, then investing in a high-quality faucet is the best choice, as these faucets don’t run more than 2.5 gallons per minute.

#3 If you have an old faucet

Most leaky faucets are simply because of their age.

Faucets are built to last anywhere from 10 – 20 years, and if your faucet is nearing the end of its lifespan, it may be time to replace it. Even if the faucet seems to be working fine, if it is old, it is best to replace it before catastrophe strikes.

#4 Your sink or counter surface is damaged

The bathroom or kitchen faucet would be working perfectly, but if the sink or counter is damaged, you may have to replace the faucet while replacing the entire counter or sink.

#5 Rusting

Rusting will decrease your plumbing’s lifespan drastically. If your faucets are displaying any signs of rust, it is best to replace the entire faucet, and also call a plumber to investigate for rust in the pipes.

Faucet And SinkPhoto credit: Pexels

When is it okay to just repair your faucet?

#1 Squeaky faucet

Faucet repair can help with a squeaking faucet. It may just require some grease to stop the noise. If your faucet’s handle squeaks even after the grease, consider calling a plumber.

#2 Low water pressure

Low water pressure could be due to the pipelines, or it could be due to one single faucet. Remove and clean the faucet to see if it makes a difference to the water pressure, especially if the issue is only at one tap.

#3 Irregular water flow

Mineral deposits in the faucet can cause water flow irregularities. To fix it, just clean the faucet.

If cleaning doesn’t work, there may be damage to some internal parts of the faucet. In this case, call a plumber to come help with the repair.

Conclusion

The entire replacement of a faucet is sometimes a much better option than constantly trying to repair it.

If you are wondering whether to repair or replace a faucet, consult with your plumber. But keep in mind, faucets were not designed to last forever.

The older the faucet, the more water it will waste and the more repairs it will require. If your home runs on hard water, you will also have to repair and replace your faucets more regularly.

Replacing an entire faucet can be costly, and that is why it is important to know whether it is best to repair or replace it.

Published in: Home advice | Author: Yanita

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