When is it Time to Replace a Faucet? – 8 Clear Signs

Jessica Wiest
Last updated: October 14, 2023

There is no everlasting appliance in the world, and the faucet in your house is no different. Faucets are one of the most used appliances. From washing different pots to cleaning vegetables, fruits, and our hands, we have to use it every single day. That’s why this hard-working appliance needs to be replaced after a certain amount of time. But, when is it time to replace a faucet?

Generally, faucets last from 15 to 20 years. It depends on the quality, type of water, the way they have been installed, wear and many other things. So, if your faucet is older than 15 years, you should definitely consider changing it.

The article below will give you a clear-cut idea about the replacement timing of your faucet. You will also get to know about why you should replace a faucet and some important tips on maintaining the faucet along the way. Let’s GO!

What You will Know show

When is it Time to Replace a Faucet - 8 Signs

Replacing the faucet can help you avoid expensive plumbing-related problems & get rid of lengthy repair problems as well. So, before something serious happens in the plumbing structure, it is best to replace the faucet.

If you face any of these 8 indicative warning signs, consider replacing your faucet.

1. Mineral Deposits

If you see a constant buildup of rust & mineral deposits, then you have a major problem on your hands.

This is one of the major reasons why faucets get damaged. They can not perform at their highest level because of these buildups.

If there is too much rust or other mineral deposits, you will get a white or a bit rusty color buildup. The gasket & filters get affected by it as well. So because of this, you face problems regarding the water pressure as well.

What’s the solution? If you face this problem from time to time, consider changing the faucet. A water softener also can prevent the buildups.

2. Leaky Faucet

Although leaky faucets can be repaired, it is best to have them replaced.

Faucets can leak from a lot of places. From handles to pipes, you can face a leaking problem from anywhere. Also, it gets annoying from time to time.

As a matter of fact, once I got really irritated because my delta kitchen faucet was leaking even after I changed it two times. Also, constant leaking can lead to big problems & it always makes a mess in the kitchen or bathroom.

That is why, if you’ve fixed it once or twice but still the problem hasn’t been solved, it’s high time to replace the faucet.

3. Dripping Faucet

Was the handle of your faucet ever turned off & it was still dripping? Well, mine was. It is really troublesome & a major issue as well.

Because of high water pressure, the overall functional process in pipes or valves can go wrong. As a result, faucets start dripping. Why is it a major issue?A dripping faucet can cause extensive water damage in the base.

So replace it as soon as possible.

4. Damaged Components

Sometimes different components in our faucets get damaged, and we have no idea about it. Especially the handles.

When there are problems with the stem of the faucet, the handles do not work properly. You can get squeaking noises from the handles as well.

To prevent any further problems, you should first consult with a plumber. If a good solution isn’t found, change it as fast as you can.

5. Spitting Faucet

Is your faucet spitting water everywhere? Then you have got yourself another clear-cut sign.

If they are not coming out in a straight steady stream, then there might be a problem related to the aerator. So you might have to change it in a matter of time. Also consider cleaning the head properly, to prevent this problem.

6. Age

Just like I said it earlier, there is no such thing as ultimate good.

You can check your faucet’s details. But the average lifespan of a faucet is 15-20 years. So my personal suggestion would be, if it’s more than 15 years old then change it immediately.

Because, after that, no matter which type of faucet you are using, it won’t work like before.

So, if you believe your faucet is old and causing problems, it is high time to replace it.

7. Constant Repairs

No matter how well you take care of your faucets, if they need constant repairs to function properly, then you should change them.

Repairing them once or twice is quite okay. It won’t cost you that much.

But if you need to repair them every now and then because of various issues, then they can take quite a dig at your pocket.

I had the same issue in my case. I changed it & haven’t faced any problems ever since. You should do the same.

8. Damaged Sink

This one caught you by surprise, didn’t it?

Sometimes, there might not be any problem with your faucet. Rather, there can be issues with the counter surface or sink. You might even need to change your faucet as well because of the damaged sink.

Also, different types of sinks need different types of faucets. That is why if they are not suitable, they might not work properly.

So have the faucet & sink checked by a plumber. Replace it if you need to.

These were the 8 clear signs that show it is time to replace your faucet. I hope you have a broad idea now. If it was useful to you, I can consider my efforts successful.

You can those durable faucets: Best Kitchen Faucet for Low Water Pressure – Picks Worth Considering!

Why Should You Replace a Faucet?

What is the first thing that comes to our mind when we think about replacing the faucet? MONEY. So should we go for it, spending a decent amount? Just to have a good water flow?

Hey, replacing the faucet is worth way more. Apart from fixing the problems, it can add value in many ways. Here’s why you should add a new faucet:

1. Solve the Problems

This is one of the main things. No matter how many times or how well you repair a faucet, it can never be like a new one.

A brand new faucet ensures that it has no problems at all & can serve you to the fullest. Replacing the old faucet with a new one can ensure everything & meet your expectations. It will solve your leaking, rust or dripping problems as well.

After that, how long does it take to replace a faucet? You have nothing to worry about for the next 15 to 20 years.

2. Increasing Efficiency

A new faucet can increase the efficiency level a lot. If you use old faucets( More than 10 years) it can waste a lot of water.

Whereas new faucets do not have this problem. So replacing the faucet can increase the overall efficiency.

3. Better Look

Replacing the faucet can improve the overall appearance of your kitchen or bathroom. If you use a stylish and cool faucet, it will surely make a really good impression.

4. Increasing Functionality

The new faucets come with a lot of features, specifications & other stuff.

So if you are using an old one, you might be missing out on a lot of functionalities(pull outs, touch controls etc). Replacing it with a new one can increase the functionalities.

5. Saving Money

Like I said, when we go to buy a new faucet, we think about the budget. We think about spending so much money on just a small appliance.

Well, it is the exact opposite.

Replacing the faucet can be cost-effective in the long run. Replacing it once is much better than repairing it frequently.

Also, a new faucet can reduce your water bill as it uses less water. That is why if you consider it for a long time, it is actually saving you money.

6. Home value

Here is another plus point. If you ever sell your house, always remember to change the faucets. It adds more value & makes the palace more attractive

You will love those faucets: 7 Best Touchless Kitchen Faucet for an Effortless Kitchen Experience!

7 Important Tips on Maintaining Your Faucet

If you take good care of your faucets, they won’t face repairing or replacement issues that easily.

But we hardly think of maintaining this appliance until we face problems with it. So here are some tips that will help you to keep the faucet in good shape.

1. Daily Maintenance

A small amount of good maintenance per day is more than enough for faucets.

Take a mild soap and a damp cloth and clean the faucet. It will only take a couple of minutes. Then dry it up with a soft cloth. It will help you to keep the original shine and luster.

However, read the labels and directions before using any cleaning products. Make sure you don’t use any abrasive cleaner.

If you keep up with regular maintenance, the faucets will have decent performance for a long time.

2. Cleaning the Aerator

The aerator is one of the most important parts of the faucets. They play a vital role in keeping a good flow of water and preventing the debris.

Experts suggest that the aerator should be cleaned at least once a year.

Here’s a detailed guide on how to clean the faucet aerator.

3. Removing Deposits

If you are one of those residents who get hard water, then you will need to take some extra care of your faucets.

Hard water contains more mineral deposits. You need to remove these deposits. How to do that?

I’ll suggest you to use a window cleaner or mild abrasive cleaner. Also sometimes I use vinegar. They get the job done as well.

4. No Harsh Cleaning Products

Prevent using any kind of harsh cleaning products. Always check the owner’s manual, labels & directions before using it.

Find the suitable cleaning product for your faucet & then use it.

5. Use of Wax

I do this personally. Both for my car & faucets. HAHA!

Proper use of wax in faucets not only makes them look all shiny, but prevents the minerals accumulation as well.

So you can apply wax and give your faucets a new look.

6. Other Minor Maintenance

There are some other small components that we should keep in mind.

I talked about the aerator earlier. But you must take care of the springs and seats as well.

Try cleaning these parts every 3-4 months. Also get a faucet repair kit. They are available everywhere these days.

7. Warranty

Here is another thing many people neglect & do not care about.

Many of us go for the looks & appearance but forget about the warranty. Always take the faucets that come with a good warranty. I did it the last time I had to replace mine.

These ones are genuinely good and they will save you from an extra headache.