Your plumbing system allows you to perform essential household tasks,  like showering and washing dishes. Unfortunately, it’s susceptible to unexpected problems. Sometimes, you may experience issues with the faucets in the kitchen and bathrooms. In these cases, a plumber will often have to repair or replace the fixtures. Here’s what you should know.

When Should Your Faucets Be Repaired?

If the faucet is fairly new or high-end, you’ll probably save money by having a plumber repair it. That doesn’t mean older fixtures will necessarily need to be replaced. If the faucet is in solid condition and rarely leaks, it can likely be repaired.

The type of problem also determines whether it should be repaired or replaced. For example, water leaking from the base of the faucet where it connects to the sink suggests a broken seal. In this case, plumbing repairs will consist of removing the fixture, replacing the seal, and securing the fixture in place again. 

A faucet that squeaks when the levers are moved or turned can also be repaired with little effort. Rather than replacing the fixture, a plumbing professional can add lubricant to eliminate the noise.

When Should They Be Replaced? 

When undertaking a kitchen or bathroom remodeling project, it makes sense to replace the faucets in those rooms. Other than a planned renovation, consider the age of the existing fixtures.

Faucets that are more than 15 to 20 years old, or those that frequently develop leaks and other problems, should be replaced as soon as possible. If you see rust flakes in the running water, or if the water has a red color, have the fixture replaced soon.

You may also choose to replace the faucet to make your home more eco-friendly. Water is a limited resource that environmentally friendly households are trying to conserve.

Switch to a more modern low-flow faucet that reduces the amount of water it releases. Older faucets release up to five gallons of water per minute, but newer faucets are designed to limit output to 2.5 gallons a minute.

If you’re experiencing problems with your faucets, contact the plumbers at Bohannon’s Plumbing & General Repairs in High Point, NC. For 30 years, they’ve provided plumbing maintenance, including well pump and water heater repairs. They also offer 24-hour emergency service. Visit their website to learn more about their expertise, or call (336) 561-9444 to schedule an appointment.