As one of the most frequently used fixtures in your home, it’s no surprise a bathroom faucet receives plenty of wear and tear. From sticky handles to leaks, issues can sneak up over years of use. Stay ahead of problems with simple cleaning techniques and learn when professional service is the smartest solution.
- Wipe surfaces and scrub mineral buildup to prevent deterioration
- Watch for drips, cracks, and loose joints, indicating repair needs
- Improper DIY fixes often accelerate damage from unaddressed root issues
- Hire a plumbing pro for complex repairs to restore like-new performance
In this article, we will discuss in detail how to maintain a bathroom faucet and how to repair a damaged one!
How to Clean a Bathroom Faucet?
For surface cleaning, wipe down faucet handles, spouts and fixtures using a soft cloth, mild detergent and warm water to remove dust and fingerprints. Rinse thoroughly with fresh water and repeat regularly.
To address mineral deposits or soap scum, use a small brush soaked in equal parts water and vinegar. Gently scrub stained areas, and nozzles, then rinse. For a stubborn scale, cover with vinegar-soaked paper towels overnight before scrubbing. Avoid abrasive cleaners which scratch finishes.
When to Replace a Bathroom Faucet?
The average bathroom faucet lasts around 15-20 years with proper care and maintenance before requiring replacement. However, neglecting leaks and visible corrosion accelerates deterioration. If your faucet shows excessive drips, loose joints, stuck handles or lime buildup you can’t remove, replacement should be considered.
Newer low-flow regulation faucets also have plastic and rubber internal supply lines that degrade faster than metal piping in old-school taps. Keep this lifespan in mind when evaluating your faucet’s age and condition.
When Repair is Required?
Surface cleaning and minor handle tweaks can be DIY projects. But if you’re experiencing issues like complete handle failure, excessive flow restriction indicating interior blockages, or leaks originating under the counter, professional repair is likely required.
Seeking quick fixes for such problems often leads to cobbling together mismatching parts that fail quicker. A pro can properly identify issues, restore smooth performance with original manufacturer replacement components, and provide warranty on repairs.
How to Replace a Bathroom Faucet?
When the extent of damage or overall wear indicates full replacement, take detailed measurements of existing supply lines, base placement, holes and counter clearances. Visit showrooms to find the most suitable new faucet meeting your functional and style needs within those parameters.
Most can be easily installed using basic tools. But if you have no plumbing experience, hire a professional team for proper de-installation to avoid water supply issues and expert new faucet installation. They’ll ensure correct positioning, tight seals, restore surrounding surfaces, and test for leaks before completion.
Conclusion
Don’t resign yourself to unsightly, dysfunctional bathroom faucets that undermine the restful vibe of your space. Schedule professional repairs at the first signs of persistent issues. Or better yet, replace older units entirely with new water-efficient models offering the latest convenience features.
With proper maintenance and care from qualified plumbers, you can expect a bathroom faucet to work flawlessly for over two decades rather than becoming a constant headache. If you are looking for high-quality products for your bathroom, partner up with Wangel today!
