Nothing lasts forever. Everything has a lifespan. It’s a reality that the earth is always aging. At some point, everything needs to be replaced…including your plumbing fixtures. But how long should they last? In this post, we’ll take a closer look, and even offer some tips to help your plumbing last longer!
PLUMBING LIFE EXPECTANCY
Here’s a list of how long many general plumbing components should last:
Waste Pipes: PVC pipes should last 50-80 years, Cast-Iron 50-60 years, clay 50-60 years
Kitchen sink: Acrylic sinks 50 years, enameled steel 5-10 years, soapstone 100+ years
Bathtubs: cast-iron 100 years, fiberglass 20 years
Faucets: 15-20 years
Gas lines: black steel 75 years, flex 30 years
Instant water heater: 10 years
Water lines: plastic 75 years, copper 50 years, plastic 50 years
Sewer grinder pump: 10 years
Shower doors: 20 years
Showerhead: Can last 100 years or more if cleaned regularly
Sump pump: 7 years
Toilet tank components: 5 years
Vent fan: 5-10 years
Vessel sink: stone, glass, porcelain, copper 5-20+
Hot water heater tank: 6-12 years
Water softener: 20 years
Well pump: 15-20 years
Whirlpool tub: 20-50 years
VARIABLES
Like with anything, there’s a degree of variability depending on the quality of your products. Dirt, rust, minerals, and hard water can shorten the lifespan of pipes and fixtures. This can especially impact water heaters and showerheads. The finish can also have a significant impact, and may require harsh cleaners that can shorten life expectancy. Some fixtures could last longer than others, so consider that when evaluating each part’s expected lifespan.
HOW WE CAN HELP
When the time comes to get your plumbing replaced, you can rely on City Plumbing to get the job done right, on time, and at a fair price. Give us a call at 432-366-2401 today and we’ll come running!
