Fixing or Replacing a Cracked Kitchen Faucet: A Comprehensive Guide
When dealing with a cracked kitchen faucet, the decision to repair or replace depends on several factors. Here’s a detailed guide to help you make an informed choice, considering cost, time, and reliability.
Understanding the Situation
If you notice a crack in your kitchen faucet, the first step is to ensure the water supply is turned off at the mains stopcock. This simple measure prevents water damage and ensures safety. Next, isolate or drain your hot water system to avoid any leakage or overflow. It is important to address the issue promptly to prevent further damage to your kitchen and home.
Repairing vs. Replacing
While some might attempt repairs, professional plumbers often recommend replacing the faucet instead of attempting to fix it. There are several reasons for this:
Repair can be costly. Depending on the work required, the cost to repair a cracked faucet can range from $200 to much more, plus the cost of parts.
Repairing often ends up costing as much as or more than a complete replacement. If the job takes around two hours, the cost can easily surpass $200.
Repairs can fail, leading to additional costs down the line. If the faucet leaks again within a few days, you may be charged again to replace it.
Considering these factors, many professionals opt to advise their customers to replace the faucet with a new one. This approach is more cost-effective and reliable in the long run.
When You Might Consider Repairing
There are instances where repair might be feasible, but it is crucial to evaluate the faucet's brand and its potential for repair. Certain brands, such as Moen, Delta, and Price Pfister, offer more repairable components. For instance, if the cartridge can be removed, it may be repairable. However, if it cannot, it might be more practical to replace the entire faucet.
For shower valves, some brands like Moen and Delta offer a lifetime guarantee, and you can often order a new cartridge from the manufacturer. This makes repair a viable option in some cases.
Professional Recommendations
While buying a new faucet from stores like Lowe’s, which offers mixer kitchen faucets starting at $25, can be an option, it is generally advisable for homeowners to rely on professional plumbers. Experts can provide reliable service and ensure the quality of the work.
For those seeking professional assistance, American Plumbing Co. is a highly rated company, boasting 100s of five-star reviews on Google, Yelp, and the B.B.B. They offer a lifetime warranty for Delta faucets manufactured after January 1, 1995, further enhancing the reliability of their services.
Conclusion and Future Maintenance
When addressing a cracked kitchen faucet, consider the cost, reliability, and potential for future issues. If you choose to replace the faucet, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
Choose a reliable brand that offers a warranty.
Ensure the new faucet is compatible with your existing fixtures.
Follow proper installation and maintenance guidelines to prolong its lifespan.
By making an informed decision, you can ensure a smooth and cost-effective solution for your plumbing needs.
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