Wouldn’t it be nice if we all knew exactly when to replace an appliance, pipe, or fixture? Most of us wait until something breaks down altogether before we decide to replace whatever it. Whether we like it or not, everything has an expiration date, that includes our pipes, sewer line, water heater, toilet, faucets, and showerheads. The technology that goes into our plumbing system has progressed faster than we ever thought possible. Unlike our smartphones and computers, our plumbing technology takes years to trickle down to the average homeowner. While we may not know the expiration date of our appliances and fixtures, we can know the warning signs that it’s time to replace them.
Knowing When To Replace Your Toilet
Let’s start with something as basic as our toilets. Our toilets can last forever if every so often you’re willing to replace a part or two. If your toilet is more than 26 years old and uses more than 1.6 gallons per flush (GPF), you need to replace it. In 1992 then-president Bush signed the Energy Policy Act into law, making all toilets use a mandatory 1.6 GPF. The law went into effect in 1994. Before 1982 toilets used 5-7 GPF, and from 1982 to 1994, it was 3.5 GPF. Any of those toilets still in existence will need replacing. Our toilets have come a long way over the last 25 years. You can purchase toilets now that use 1 GPF. If your toilet is old and begins to leak, replace it. Your toilet is one affordable fixture, and it doesn’t have to break the bank.
Replace Your Water Heater Before It Breaks
Knowing the signs that your water heater is on its way out could save you some grief. You can expect your water heater to last 10 – 15 years, especially if you provide annual maintenance. If your water heater tank shows signs of rust, it’s time to replace it. No homeowner wants to encounter water damage, so an old leaking water heater means it’s time to be replaced. Rumbling noises and rusty water is another telltale sign that your water heater has seen its final day. The latest water heaters could save a homeowner as much as 30% in energy costs annually over heaters manufactured ten years ago. While your water heater may not be the cheapest appliance in the home, it might pay for itself over time.
Know When To Replace Your Garbage Disposal
When is it time to replace your garbage disposal? Your garbage disposal will last 12 – 15 years, but much of that will depend on usage. If your garbage disposal begins to jam often or leak, then it’s time to replace it. Your garbage disposal is another very affordable appliance; they range from $100 – $300. Purchasing a disposal in the higher price range will get you one that has stainless steel impellers, more horsepower, much quieter, looks better and grinds faster.
Your Pipes Won’t Last Forever Know When To Replace Them
Yes, the pipes in your home will eventually wear out; knowing the sign that your pipes need replacing could save you from some trouble because pipe leaks are one of the first signs that your pipes need replacing. Copper pipes, properly installed, will last 50 plus years, and galvanized steel have a 20 -50 year life expectancy. If you have a home with galvanized steel pipes, they will probably need replacing now because galvanized steel pipes have not been used in homebuilding since the 60s. Another sign that your pipes need replacing is low water pressure. In some cases, hard water mineral deposits build up in the pipes restricting water flow.
Is Your Sewer Line Acting Up? Call Your Plumbing Professional
Does your sewer line continue to back up? Do you have lush green areas on your lawn? Chances are you have a broken sewer line. Your plumbing professional will complete a camera inspection of your sewer pipeline. Once they discover the problem, your plumbing expert will provide you with all your options. Most cracked or broken sewer lines qualify for a cured-in-place sewer line, also known as a trenchless sewer line. The procedure is not invasive to landscaping, and it will add an epoxy liner to your original sewer line. In essence, it will build out an epoxy pipe within your existing pipe. The new pipe has a life expectancy of 40 – 50 years. License #986152
