It’s easy to forget about the bathroom fixtures, but like everything else in the home, they have a fixed life span. If it’s been a while since you’ve last updated your fixtures, it may be time to start considering a few upgrades. Beyond looking old and outdated, these fixtures will eventually wear down, leading to visits from the plumber and unexpected repair costs. This guide breaks down some of the signs that your fixtures are due for replacements. 

How Long Do Bathroom Fixtures Last? 

Shower

The life expectancy of a showerhead is around 100 years, barring any damages from mineral buildup. Despite its longevity, it’s one of the most commonly replaced fixtures—simply due to how easy they are to replace. In many cases, people swap out their showerheads for newer models that offer better water flow, design, or water efficiency.

Unless your showerhead has a problem, such as leaking or clogging from hard water build-up, you can keep it for many years. However, newer models offer low-flow options that can save you money on future water bills.

Sink

Sinks don’t have a typical life span since it all depends on their individual parts. An acrylic sink basin can last half a century, but the faucet will likely last 15 to 20 years at most, depending on the manufacturer. Other influential factors include how much water you use and whether or not you have hard water. 

If your bathroom sink is older, replace it to avoid problems like cracked seals and leaking pipes. A replacement might also update the look and feel of your bathroom or decrease your water usage. Newer faucets offer built-in water saving technology that can decrease the amount of water being used. Installing a faucet with the WaterSense® label can save you 2.2 gallons per minute without decreasing performance. 

Toilet 

Like showerheads, toilets last around 100 years, but this doesn’t mean you should hold onto your toilet for that long. While occasional issues aren’t cause for concern, recurrent clogs that end in visits from the plumber as well as physical or cosmetic damage can be reasons enough to swap them out.

Modern low flow toilets are required to use only 1.6 gallons per flush, whereas older toilets can use as much as six gallons. This makes a noticeable difference in your water bill to a tune of $50 to $100 annually. 

Do you need a skilled plumber in Central or South Texas to help update your old bathroom fixtures? Turn to A-1 Tri-County Plumbing in Seguin, TX. From installing new fixtures to repairs and 24-hour emergency services, these plumbing experts do it all. Learn more about their services online or call them today at (512) 353-8656 for an estimate.