Understanding the lifespan of plumbing fixtures and appliances

Think about all the appliances you have in your home. Things like your boiler, radiators and taps work day and night to ensure you have hot water and heating when you need it. Your washing machine and dishwasher work at a moment’s notice. Your plumbing system really is the lifeline of your home! And when you think about just how much work it puts in, it’s no wonder that it doesn’t last forever!

In this article, we are going to run through the average lifespan of plumbing fixtures, explain the importance of knowing these lifespans, explore some features that affect longevity and give you some handy tips and tricks on how to extend your plumbing life as much as possible!

Average lifespan of plumbing fixtures and appliances

Whether you’ve just bought a property and want to know whether your plumbing needs replacing, have had some appliances for many years and are wondering whether it’s time to invest in new, or you’re just curious about how long certain appliances and fixtures should last, GreenSmart are here to help! Let’s explore the average lifespan of common plumbing fixtures:

Average lifespan of boilers 

Arguably the most important plumbing fixture in the home is the boiler, so we aren’t surprised that you’re wondering how long they last. The lifespan of a boiler usually ranges from 10-15 years. However, this can vary significantly depending on which type of boiler you have in your home and how well it is maintained. Let’s break down the average lifespan of different types of boilers:

• Gas boilers last 10-15 years on average. However, regular maintenance, such as annual servicing and timely repairs, can extend the lifespan beyond 15 years.
• Oil boilers last slightly longer than their gas counterparts at around 15-20 years on average. This is because oil boilers tend to be more durable than gas models, but they also require regular maintenance.
• Electric boilers generally have a shorter lifespan compared to gas or oil models at 8-12 years, but they are easier to maintain.

Average lifespan of toilets

One of the most used plumbing components in any building, a toilet needs to be durable. Luckily, most toilets last 50 years or more, with many people updating their toilets for aesthetic reasons or to save water rather than because of breakages.

With that being said, though, toilets contain many different moving parts, and just because the bowl is unlikely to crack, it doesn’t mean that the toilet seat, flush or fill valve may break more frequently if not looked after. Luckily for you though, we have an article on how to flush a toilet if it’s not working, so you can get rid of the evidence of your toilet usage.

Average lifespan of taps and sinks

Another regularly used plumbing fixture, the average lifespan of taps is around 15-20 years, unless they’ve been damaged by events other than normal wear and tear. 

The lifespan of your kitchen and bathroom sinks can vary depending on material, with stainless steel sinks lasting around 10 years, copper and porcelain sinks lasting for about 20 years, and acrylic sinks lasting 50 years or more!

Average lifespan of dishwashers

Once considered a luxury item but now commonly found in kitchens up and down the country, dishwashers tend to get a fair bit of use. Luckily though, your dishwasher should last you around 7-12 years before you need to replace it (or go back to washing dishes by hand!)

Much like other appliances, the lifespan of a dishwasher can vary depending on its brand, how often it is used and how it’s looked after. A lot of the time dishwashers are easy to repair if broken. However, suppliers often suggest that if your dishwasher is over 10 years old, it should be replaced, rather than repaired.

Average lifespan of washing machines

How often have you gone to get dressed in the morning only to find that your planned outfit is in the laundry basket, waiting to be washed? (It happens to us at least once a week!) Thankfully, the average lifespan of washing machines is 14 years before they need to be replaced, based on completing one load of washing a day! Big families or commercial laundrettes may need to replace their washing machines more often, depending on how often they’re used.

What factors can affect the longevity of plumbing?

A number of different factors can impact how long your plumbing fixtures and appliances last. Some of these things, such as how often they are used and how well they’re maintained, can be controlled by the homeowner, whereas other factors outside of the user’s control, including the water quality and environmental factors, can also affect longevity.

• Water quality: Hard water contains high levels of calcium and magnesium and can lead to mineral buildup and scaling in plumbing fixtures. This buildup can reduce the lifespan of fixtures. Soft water, on the other hand, is less likely to cause these issues, therefore often extending the life of plumbing components.
• Frequency of use: How often a plumbing fixture is used can significantly impact its durability. Fixtures that are used frequently, such as kitchen sinks and showers, may experience more wear and tear compared to those with less frequent use. Increased usage can make parts degrade quicker and lead to a shorter overall lifespan.
• Maintenance: Routine maintenance, including regular cleaning and repairs is essential to extend the lifespan of plumbing fixtures. Proper maintenance helps prevent minor issues from escalating into major problems that could lead to premature replacement. Maintaining appropriate water pressure is also important. Excessively high water pressure can stress plumbing fixtures and pipes, leading to damage over time.
• Installation: Proper installation by a professional ensures that fixtures are set up correctly and function efficiently, which can prevent many common issues that arise from improper setup.
• Material quality: Using high-quality materials for plumbing fixtures and components can significantly enhance their durability and resistance to wear and tear. Cheaper materials may deteriorate faster and require more frequent replacements.
• Temperature changes: Frequent changes in temperature can affect plumbing fixtures, especially those exposed to extreme temperatures. For example, freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst.
• Moisture levels: High humidity or moisture levels can lead to corrosion and mould growth, which can negatively impact the longevity of plumbing fixtures.

Understanding and addressing these factors can help you maintain your plumbing system and extend the life of your fixtures and appliances.

How do I know when my plumbing needs replacing?

A plumbing fixture that breaks when you aren’t expecting it or before it’s come to the end of its average lifespan can be frustrating. Luckily, though, our plumbing fixtures and appliances usually display some signs that they need repairing or replacing before they go completely kaput. Here are some common symptoms that your plumbing needs replacing:

• Boilers: Inconsistent heating, unusual noises, increased energy bills, or leaks can all be a sign that your boiler isn’t working properly and needs repairing or replacing.
• Toilets: Frequent clogging and cracks in the bowl are quite obvious signs that it’s time to replace your ivory throne. A slightly more obscure symptom is that your toilet is using more water than normal. Constant running and ineffective flushes are both indicators that your toilet is inefficiently using water.
• Taps: Taps should be replaced if you notice any persistent leaks, mineral build-up, or difficulty in operation.
• Appliances such as dishwashers and washing Machines: Poor performance, increased water consumption and persistent malfunctions are all signals that it’s time for an upgrade.

How to extend the lifespan of plumbing fixtures and appliances?

It is possible to extend the lifespan of plumbing fixtures and appliances. A few key practices can be implemented in order to lengthen the lifespan as much as possible.

Routine maintenance

Regular inspections should be conducted to ensure everything is functioning correctly. Depending on the fixture, this can either be done yourself, or by a qualified professional. Clean filters in appliances such as washing machines regularly, and employ people to address small leaks quickly to prevent them from escalating into bigger problems.

Upgrade components

Replace ageing components such as seals, valves, or washers before they lead to larger issues. Keeping these parts in good condition can prevent malfunctions and extend the life of your fixtures and appliances.

Install a water softener

If you live in the south or east of England and have hard water, it might be worth considering installing a water softener. A water softener can help to reduce the damage caused by mineral buildup, protecting your fixtures and appliances from corrosion.

Professional servicing 

Schedule regular services, especially for complex appliances such as boilers. Expert maintenance can address issues that may not be apparent and ensure that your systems are running efficiently, helping to prolong their lifespan.

By following these simple practices, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your plumbing fixtures and appliances. Investing in proper care not only helps you avoid costly repairs and replacements, but also enhances the overall performance and longevity of your plumbing system, giving you peace of mind and long-term savings.

Frequently Asked Questions about the lifespan of plumbing fixtures

Have other questions about the lifespan of your plumbing fixtures? Hopefully we have answered them in our FAQs below:

1. Do newer models always last longer?

Not always. While newer models may incorporate advanced technology and improved materials that can enhance durability, the actual lifespan of a fixture depends on several factors, including the quality of the product, how well it is maintained, and how it is used. Some older models made from higher-quality materials may last as long or even longer than newer ones.

2. Can you repair an appliance beyond its average lifespan?

Although it is possible to repair an appliance beyond its average lifespan, it’s not always practical or cost-effective. As appliances age, they can require more frequent repairs that are not only inconvenient, but expensive! At a certain point, it may be more economical to replace the appliance rather than continuing to repair it..

3. Are there specific materials that last longer in plumbing fixtures?

Plumbing fixtures made from certain materials, such as brass, stainless steel or ceramic tend to be more durable and last longer than those made from cheaper materials like plastic or low-grade metals. 

4. How does water pressure affect the lifespan of plumbing fixtures?

High water pressure can place excessive stress on plumbing fixtures, leading to leaks, damage, and premature wear over time. Fixtures like taps and showerheads are designed to handle specific pressure ranges, and a consistent high pressure can reduce their lifespan. 

How GreenSmart can help

If any of the plumbing fixtures in your home have come to the end of their lifespan, or you’re wondering whether you need to repair or replace your boiler, toilet or other plumbing components, GreenSmart is able to help!

Our engineers are trained and experienced in all emergency plumbing situations, so they will be able to resolve the issue quickly and efficiently. 

We are available for plumbing emergencies 24/7 and are always happy to help. Contact us today to discuss your plumbing requirements, or if you need us urgently, feel free to give us a call.