Any device connected to a plumbing system to deliver and drain away water can be considered a plumbing fixture. Are you looking to replace that old and dripping sink? Plumbing fixtures can help you save money and also give your house a little more style.
Replacing a faucet or a shower is not rocket science but can be challenging (and messy!) if you do not follow some simple steps. Read more about the best types of fixtures and how to install new ones below!
What Are Plumbing Fixtures?
Devices that are connected to plumbing systems to deliver and drain away water are considered plumbing fixtures. Examples include sinks, faucets, bathtubs, showers, toilets, and bidets. These fixtures are typical in kitchens, bathrooms, and laundry rooms.
So you know you have some plumbing fixtures in your house, but are they conserving water? Check the next section to learn more about it!
What Are Water-Conserving Plumbing Fixtures?
It is self-explanatory: They are fixtures with some kind of technology or system to save water at home or in a commercial building. Although more expensive, the water economy ends up paying for itself in the long run. Like that, you can also help the environment!
The main types of water-conserving fixtures are listed below, read on!
- High-Efficient Toilets: Also known as HET, they can reduce the amount of water used to flush up to two gallons when compared with normal toilets.
- Pressure-Reducing Valves: They are installed to reduce the amount of water pressure, normally around 70 psi to 35 psi, reducing the usage and stress on the pipes.
- Aerator Shower Heads And Faucets: They work by using a mixture of water and air, keeping the flow pressurized, and using less liquid.
Does that mean that these are the most quality plumbing fixtures? Not necessarily, the next section tells you which are the top ones!
What Are The Best Quality Plumbing Fixtures?
Cheaper products are less durable and are simpler in design, expensive ones normally last longer. As a rule of thumb, you get what you pay for. With that in mind, some are well-regarded for their durability, performance, and innovation:
- Kohler
- Delta
- Moen
- American Standard
- Grohe
- Toto
Now, if you need to install or repair any of these plumbing fixtures, pay attention to the next part of this guide.
How To Do A Plumbing Fixture Installation And Repair?
If you want to go for DIY plumbing on the fixture replacement, you will need to gather your tools and follow some steps to ensure the job is done right.
- Buy a replacement and be sure it has the same fit as the one you are replacing.
- Gather the tools. They can vary depending on the fixture you are replacing, but you will need a wrench and white plumber tape at least, while a plier is also very useful.
- Turn off the water supply before you start unscrewing anything. Some houses have shutoff valves for each room with a fixture, but in others, there is one single valve.
- Turn open the fixture to release the remaining water from the pipe after shutting off the valve.
- Uninstall and remove the old one and go for the new showerhead or faucet installation.
Too much hassle? Your new shower is more challenging to replace than you thought. Avoid complications with your plumbing fixtures by hiring a pro plumber near you!
