A drip is just a drip right? Wrong.
It can be easy to sometimes ignore when you need to have your plumbing fixtures repaired, but left unattended, a simple fixture repair can turn into a much bigger problem.
Today’s plumbing fixtures are basically unrecognizable from their previous models. The water-saving regulations, high-efficiency components and fancy features put them leaps and bounds ahead of the basic faucet we used 20 years ago. Sometimes replacing your water fixtures can actually save you money each month on your water bills by reducing your overall water usage.
Whether you need an upgrade, repair, or fixture replacement, we can help you decide what plumbing fixtures work best for your home, family, and budget.
Plumbing Faucet and Fixture Repair
There are some simple signs to look out for that are indicators that your shower head, kitchen sink faucet, or bathtub faucet may need to be repaired or replaced.
- They continue to drip once they have been turned off.
- The plumbing fixtures are loose/not mounted properly anymore.
- The knobs are loose or have water that leaks out from where they are attached to the shower, kitchen sink, or bathtub.
Before You Call a Plumber
While some of the issues you may have with your plumbing fixtures can be fixed with a simple repair, those same issues could be a warning sign of you needing to replace your plumbing fixtures. However, if you recently bought the plumbing fixture, it could still be under warranty. Some fixtures are guaranteed for life and can be simply returned and replaced by the manufacturer at no cost. You may want to check on your warranty before calling for a repair.
When To Call a Plumber
If you have a fixture that is giving you trouble and you know it’s no longer under warranty, give a plumber a call. Many times a simple fix can keep you running for several years before a replacement is necessary. Our professional local plumbing contractors will give you their expert opinion and advice so you only pay for what you need and nothing more.
Plumbing Fixture Installation
The “repair or replace” debate is a tale as old as time. It’s a valid consideration in plumbing fixtures. Nobody wants to replace something they could repair, but nobody wants to repair something that breaks constantly, either. There are five main considerations to make that help determine when it’s worth the investment in a new plumbing fixture:
- The plumbing fixture uses outdated materials
If you answered yes, nothing else matters – it’s time to replace. Old pipes are more than inconvenient, they are quite dangerous. Pipes installed before 1980 often contain lead, which can poison your water.
- You have to have it frequently repaired
Sometimes you get a leaky faucet that just keeps leaking. If it’s not one problem it’s another. You can call it a lemon, call it a dud, but then call a plumber and get it replaced before you spend more money on yet another repair.
- Age
In the early 1990s, water use for toilets dropped to a mandated 1.6 gallons per flush. Many of the toilets on the market did not work well with this change. High-efficient technology is no longer a luxury, in many cases it is mandatory. If you are using outdated fixtures, they may never work effectively with new water regulations which means it’s time to update your fixtures.
- How much would it cost you to NOT replace it?
If you’re a numbers person, a simple calculation can often determine whether or not it’s time to replace. Factor in the cost of use, the cost of repairs, and the cost of a new fixture to determine what the best cost is for you and your home.
- You are about to put your house on the market?
If you’re trying to sell your home, you’re going to be subject to inspections and outdated, old, leaking, or inefficient fixtures are likely going to come up. Replace them ahead of time and give your home a fresh new look to motivate buyers.
Today, there are several water-saving options when it comes to replacing any of your plumbing fixtures. The technology and features in plumbing fixtures today can make a significant difference in lowering your monthly utility bills.
My Trusted Contractor is proud to work with local contractors all throughout the states of Indiana and Kentucky, including the cities of Louisville, KY, Fort Wayne, IN, Evansville, IN, and Jeffersonville, IN. Find a local contractor for your next plumbing project!
Kitchen Fixtures
The kitchen is where everyone tends to gather. Family and friends come together to enjoy good food and good company. Between the sink, dishwasher, disposal, and fridge water lines, the kitchen is the crossroads for plumbing. We all need to use our kitchens for food prep, cooking, eating, dishes, and cleaning and it takes the right plumbing fixtures to do those jobs effectively.
- Faucets: The latest changes in kitchen faucets has happened on the inside, which means you can put two faucets next to each other and it’s difficult to tell which one is high-efficiency and which one is standard. However, there are advancements in touch-free technology and other features that make new faucets more user friendly than ever.
- Sink: If you are ready to change or replace your kitchen sink at the same time you are replacing the faucet, you must ensure your new sink is compatible with your existing piping. The sink is connected to the dishwasher, garbage disposal and may involve additional appliances as well. Each item you wish to install in your kitchen plumbing system may change those requirements. It’s important to use a local expert to install plumbing fixtures and configure piping to give you the dream kitchen you want.
Bathroom Fixtures
Bathrooms carry the mother-lode of plumbing problems. Because more water flows in and out of the bathroom than any other room in your house, it is no wonder why they tend to cause plumbing complications.
- Sink: Every bathroom fixture is dependent on the bathroom sinks. Whether you choose a large basin sink that can accommodate a higher amount of water or a decorative shallow style, the bathroom sink carries a lot of responsibility. We can help you replace your existing bathroom fixtures to increase their capabilities, or give you a completely new upgrade.
- Bathtub: Sometimes, changing the bathtub fixtures is a simple repair, while other times it actually requires changing the plumbing in the wall behind the bathtub. This is why a bathtub upgrade is generally not the type of project to attempt on your own. Our plumbers are available to visit your home and make the changes to your bathroom quickly and easily.
- Shower Heads: Several years ago “high-efficiency” shower heads was another name for small and wimpy water pressure. Today, with the breakthrough of air-induction technology, you can enjoy lower water bills and the same flow and coverage you expect from a comfortable shower.
- Toilets: Today’s toilets flush with power of 1.28 gallons or less. The dual-flush models are available, but most of the manufacturers are trending towards a more efficient single-flush model. Toilets are also smaller and sleeker than ever before, and give a higher height for more comfort. Replacing a toilet is not a quick job, and can be a huge undertaking for the average homeowner. Our experts can be in and out in a couple of hours while keeping your family safe and clean.
Find Your Plumbing Partner
With My Trusted Contractor, finding a local plumber is a breeze. Our plumbing experts provide the solutions you need quickly and easily so your home is always flowing as it should.
If you find yourself in need of new plumbing fixtures or are unsure if you need to repair or replace your existing plumbing fixtures, then let our highly skilled plumbers take a look and give you their expert recommendations on what is the best option for your situation and budget. Find your plumber today!