With correct usage, cleaning, and maintenance, you can expect to get many years out of your home’s plumbing system and fixtures. Below, we’ll provide you with the typical lifespan you can expect from things like your faucets and water heater, according to the National Association of Home Builders and plumbing experts.
EXPECTED LIFESPANS FOR PLUMBING SYSTEMS AND FIXTURES
Use this information as a guide to help you plan for future plumbing replacements and upgrades.
Water Heaters
Storage tank water heaters last around 10 years, although electric models tend to last slightly longer than gas models. Tankless water heaters last for at least 20 years.
Faucets
Kitchen faucets last about 15 years on average because of the wear and tear they go through. You can expect the faucets in your bathroom sink and tub to last 20 years or more.
Showerheads
According to the National Association of Home Builders, showerheads should last a lifetime, but in our experience, showerheads go downhill after about 5 years--sometimes less if the water in your home is particularly hard.
Sinks
Your sink’s lifespan will depend a lot on its material. Stainless steel sinks last 15 to 30 years. Porcelain sinks last 25 to 30 years before they’ll need to be refinished, after which they can last longer. Enamel steel sinks only last about 5 to 10 years if used frequently. Stone sinks can last for several decades or much longer--just keep in mind that you’ll likely need to reseal them every 6 to 12 months.
Garbage Disposals
Assuming you’re putting the right things down your garbage disposal, the unit should last for about 12 years for the average household.
Toilets
A good toilet should last several decades. Typically the only reason to replace the entire toilet is if a large crack forms in the tank or bowl or if you’d like to upgrade to a more water-efficient model. That being said, the components in the tank can wear out and require a repair or replacement about every 5 to 10 years.
Pipes (Water Supply Lines and Sewer Lines)
Pipe life expectancy can vary greatly depending on the material and factors like your water’s acidity and mineral content. Here is a general timeframe of what to expect:
- ABS: up to 100 years
- Cast Iron: 75 to 100 years
- Clay: 50 to 60 years
- Copper (L-type, thicker): 50 to 100 years
- Copper (M-type, thinner): 20 years or more
- Orangeburg: 30 to 50 years
- PEX: at least 50 years
- PVC and CPVC: up to 100 years
At 1st Home & Commercial Services, we’re proud to offer a full range of plumbing services here in Austin. Get in touch with us online or call us at (512) 957-2992 to request a professional plumber.