Faucets are a fundamental part of your daily routine. From washing your hands to cleaning dishes, they make life easier and more hygienic.
When a faucet starts to fail, it’s not just a small problem. It can disrupt your whole day and cause costly issues like water damage or mold.
Knowing how long faucets typically last and recognizing the signs of wear can help you avoid these issues. Below, we’ll explore 11 clear warning signs that indicate it might be time to replace your faucet.
Dripping Faucet
A dripping faucet is more than just annoying; it’s often a sign of underlying problems with pipes, valves, or high water pressure. Beyond the wasted water—up to 3,000 gallons a year at a rate of one drip per second —this issue can also inflate your utility bills.
If repairs fail to resolve the problem, replacing the faucet is the most cost-effective solution. Delaying action could lead to water damage and other costly repairs.
Low Water Pressure
Low water pressure in a faucet often points to corrosion or hard water buildup. These deposits restrict water flow, making daily tasks like washing dishes or rinsing vegetables frustrating and time-consuming.
If only one faucet is affected, cleaning or replacing it may resolve the issue. However, if multiple faucets experience low pressure, the problem could lie in your home’s plumbing system. In such cases, consulting a professional plumber is the best course of action.
Leaking Faucet or Handles
Leaks around the faucet handle, base, or connected pipes are clear indicators of wear and tear. Left unaddressed, leaks can lead to serious problems like water pooling, mold growth, and even structural damage to surrounding areas. Replacing the faucet promptly can prevent further damage and save you from costly repairs.
Rust, Grime, or Mineral Deposits
Over time, rust, grime, and mineral deposits accumulate due to hard water or inadequate maintenance. These buildups not only look unsightly but can also hinder your faucet’s performance.
Sticking handles, internal rust, or cracking are common outcomes. Replacing the faucet and installing a water softener can help prevent similar issues in the future, keeping your fixtures in good condition.
Squeaking Handle or Damaged Components
A squeaky faucet handle or difficulty turning it can indicate a worn faucet stem or deteriorating internal parts. While applying plumber’s grease may temporarily address the issue, it’s usually a sign that the faucet is nearing the end of its useful life. Replacing the faucet ensures smoother operation and avoids potential failures down the line.
Spitting Faucet
When a faucet spits water instead of delivering a steady stream, it’s often due to a clogged aerator. While cleaning the aerator may fix minor clogs, extensive buildup can indicate more significant issues. Replacing the faucet is often the most effective way to restore proper water flow and ensure long-term functionality.
Noisy Faucet
A noisy faucet, whether it’s whistling, banging, or squeaking, usually results from a hardened washer or cracked components. These noises may seem minor, but they often signal increased wear that can lead to internal damage if ignored. Inspecting the faucet and addressing the issue promptly—either through repair or replacement—can prevent further complications.
Aging Faucet
Faucets generally last about 15 years with proper maintenance. As they age, signs of wear and tear become more apparent, including reduced functionality, visible corrosion, or persistent leaks.
If your faucet is approaching or exceeding this age, replacing it can help you avoid recurring issues and ensure optimal performance. While upgrading, it’s a good idea to inspect nearby pipes for additional problems.
Water Tastes or Smells Bad
Bad-tasting or foul-smelling water can result from internal rust or faucet breakdown. This not only affects water quality but also raises health concerns. Replacing the faucet and consulting a plumber to check for broader plumbing issues is essential to maintain safe and clean water in your home.
Mold Formation
Hidden leaks around a faucet often lead to mold growth, posing health risks and causing structural damage. Mold thrives in damp environments, making it essential to address leaks as soon as they’re detected. Replacing the faucet and addressing any underlying issues can eliminate mold and prevent its return.
You’re Selling Your Home
If you plan to sell your home, updating old faucets is an easy way to modernize your kitchen or bathroom. Sleek, modern fixtures not only enhance your home’s aesthetic appeal but also attract potential buyers by giving your space a polished and updated look. It’s a small investment that can boost resale value.
Benefits of Upgrading Your Faucet
Upgrading your faucet offers numerous advantages beyond just solving functional issues:
- Improved Home Aesthetics: Refresh your kitchen or bathroom with stylish, modern fixtures.
- Increased Home Value: Attract buyers with high-quality upgrades that make your home stand out.
- Added Functionality: Enjoy features like pull-out sprayers, swivel heads, or touch controls.
- Save Money: Eco-friendly models reduce water consumption and lower utility bills.
Let Apollo Be Your Personal Plumber for Faucet Replacement
DIY faucet installation might seem simple, but it comes with risks like improper setup or potential damage to your plumbing system. Apollo Plumbing offers professional installation services to ensure your faucet is installed correctly and efficiently.
Our clean, screened, trained, and timely plumbers take the stress out of faucet replacement. If you’re in Everett, WA, or the surrounding areas, trust Apollo Plumbing for a job done right. Contact us today to upgrade your faucet with confidence.
FAQs
Replacing a faucet can raise several questions. Here are answers to the most common ones:
How long do faucets last?
Most faucets last around 15 years with regular maintenance and care.
How do I know it’s time to replace my faucet?
Signs include persistent leaks, low water pressure, rust, and squeaking handles.
Can I fix a dripping faucet without replacing it?
Minor drips can often be repaired, but persistent issues may require replacement.
What are the risks of DIY faucet installation?
Improper installation can lead to leaks, damage, or inefficient performance.
Are modern faucets more water-efficient?
Yes, many modern faucets are designed to reduce water usage, saving money on bills.
Final Thoughts
Addressing faucet issues promptly saves you from bigger problems like water damage and mold. Replacing a faucet not only restores functionality but can also improve your home’s aesthetics and efficiency.
For reliable service, trust Apollo Plumbing. Our expert plumbers are ready to help you upgrade your faucets and keep your home running smoothly. Reach out today!
