Plumbing fixtures are the parts you use every day. They’re connected to a plumbing system and control how water flows in and out of your home. Think sinks, toilets, and faucets, not pipes or water heaters.
Fixtures matter. They affect your comfort, your water bill, and how easy your space is to use and clean. This guide breaks down what plumbing fixtures are, which ones you need, what not to call a fixture, and how to choose the right one.
What Is a Plumbing Fixture?
A plumbing fixture is any device that gives you access to hot and cold water or drains it away. Fixtures include sinks, toilets, and bathtubs. They’re designed to be used — you turn them on, off, flush them, or stand under them.
A fixture is not a water heater, pipe, or shutoff valve. Those connect things behind the wall. Fixtures are what you touch.
You’ll find them in kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms, and public restrooms.
Common Types of Plumbing Fixtures
Fixtures are everywhere in your home or business. Here are the most common ones, what they do, and what makes them different.
Sinks
You’ll find these in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry areas. Mounting styles include undermount, vessel, and wall-mounted options. They handle everything from handwashing to food prep to soaking dirty laundry.
Faucets
These control your water flow. Single-handle faucets are simple. Double-handle ones give you tighter control over hot and cold water. Touchless and pull-down models are more advanced but add ease.
Toilets
Toilets come in one-piece or two-piece styles. Some flush more efficiently than others — dual flush toilets let you save water with every trip. Look for ADA-compliant toilets for better accessibility.
Showers & Bathtubs
These are built-in or separate. Shower options include rainfall heads, handheld sprayers, and low-flow models. Tubs range from basic to whirlpool versions for soaking and comfort.
Bidets
Bidets are either standalone units or add-ons to your toilet. Many offer warm water, air drying, and self-cleaning features.
Utility & Laundry Tubs
These deep, durable tubs are made for messes. You’ll find them in basements or laundry rooms. They’re often cast iron or heavy plastic.
Urinals & Drinking Fountains (Commercial Use)
These show up in high-traffic areas. They’re built for speed and hygiene. Water-saving models help keep usage low.
What Is Not a Plumbing Fixture?
Let’s keep this simple.
These parts are not considered fixtures:
- Water heaters
- Pipes and valves
- Shutoff handles
- Garbage disposals
- Cast iron main stacks
- Hose bibs
Those are plumbing components, not fixtures you interact with daily.
How to Choose the Right Plumbing Fixtures
You’ve got options. Here’s how to make sure you’re not stuck with the wrong ones.
Functionality & User Needs
Does the fixture match your water pressure? Is it easy for everyone in your home to use — including older adults or kids?
Material & Durability
Common materials include chrome, stainless steel, porcelain, and brass. Some resist scratches and corrosion better than others. Pick based on where it’s going and how often it’s used.
Style & Design
Do you want modern, traditional, or something in between? Popular finishes include matte black, brushed nickel, and gold. Keep things consistent across your space.
Water Efficiency & Sustainability
Look for WaterSense labels. They reduce water flow without cutting performance. Efficient fixtures save money and reduce waste.
Installation Requirements
Are you replacing an old fixture or starting from scratch? Some fixtures are DIY-friendly. Others need a pro. If plumbing changes are required, hire a licensed plumber.
Budget & Brand Trust
Stick with brands known for quality and service. Some cheap imports offer low price tags and even lower lifespans. Don’t buy something that breaks in a year.
Plumbing Fixture Code Compliance
Fixtures need to follow state and local plumbing codes.
That includes:
- UPC / IPC approval
- ADA height and clearance rules for sinks and toilets
- Proper venting and trap standards
- Flow rate regulations for showers and faucets
Always ask if a fixture is up to code, especially if you’re remodeling or building new.
FAQs
What are the most common plumbing fixtures?
Sinks, toilets, faucets, showers, and tubs. These are in almost every home.
Are faucets considered plumbing fixtures?
Yes. Faucets control water flow and are connected directly to your plumbing system.
What’s the difference between a plumbing fixture and an appliance?
Fixtures deliver or remove water. Appliances, like dishwashers and washing machines, use water to perform a task.
Do all fixtures need to be code-compliant?
Yes. If not, they can fail inspections and cause issues with insurance or resale.
Can I install plumbing fixtures myself?
Some — yes. Faucets and showerheads are easier. Toilets or anything that affects drainage usually needs a pro.
Need Fixture Replacement in Everett, WA?
Plumbing fixtures make your space work. From function to style to efficiency, the right fixture does more than look good — it makes your home easier to live in.
If you need help choosing or replacing your fixtures, Apollo Plumbing is ready right now. We serve Everett, WA and surrounding areas with clean, screened, trained, and timely professionals.
Your new fixture should work perfectly, and we’ll make sure it does.