Faucet Replacement: Should You Fix It or Replace It?

September 26, 2025

When your faucet starts dripping, leaking, or simply isn’t working like it used to, many homeowners face the same question: Should I fix it or replace it? At Demmis Plumbing, we see this every week. And the answer isn’t always “buy a new one.” Sometimes, fixing an older high-quality faucet is a smarter choice than replacing it with a new, but cheaply made one. Let’s break down the pros and cons of each option.

🔧 When It Makes Sense to Fix Your Faucet

Not all faucets are created equal. If your faucet was made by a reputable brand and has lasted 10+ years, chances are the internal parts are solid and replaceable.

✅ Pros of Fixing:

Cost-Effective: Small issues like leaks or loose handles can often be repaired for less than a full replacement.
Higher Quality Materials: Older faucets from brands like Moen, Delta, or Kohler were made to last. It’s often worth saving these.
Avoids Cheap Replacements: Many budget faucets (especially from online retailers) are made with plastic internals and thin finishes.
Less Waste: Fixing avoids sending another fixture to the landfill.

🛠️ Common Repairs:

Cartridge or valve replacement
Aerator cleaning or replacement
Handle tightening or replacement
Hose or O-ring repairs

We carry a wide range of OEM parts for brand-name fixtures and can usually repair your faucet on the spot.

🚿 When It’s Better to Replace

Sometimes a faucet is just too far gone—corroded, cracked, or simply outdated. Or maybe you’re remodeling and want an updated look.

But beware: not all replacements are equal. That good-looking $49 faucet on Amazon may not last through the year.

⚠️ Cons of Replacing with Cheap Fixtures:

Plastic cartridges and internal parts wear out quickly
Finishes peel or corrode, especially in hard water areas
Poor water flow control
Limited or no warranty support

Instead, invest in a faucet from a trusted brand.

🏅 Recommended Faucet Brands

When replacing a faucet, we always recommend using reputable manufacturers that stand behind their products with good warranties and solid construction:

These brands use metal components, ceramic disc cartridges, and quality finishes. They’re built to last and easier to repair down the road.

💡 Pro Tip from Demmis Plumbing

We often see customers disappointed with low-cost faucets that were purchased online. Many of them look nice at first but fail within months.

That’s why we recommend calling us to evaluate your faucet first. Sometimes, a quick fix can add years of life to a quality fixture.

If replacement is the best option, we’ll help you choose the right brand and model for your needs—and install it properly, the first time.

🧰 Conclusion: Fix or Replace?

Here’s a quick recap:

Situation	Recommendation
Quality faucet, minor issue	Fix it
Faucet over 15–20 years old, corroded	Replace
Remodeling your kitchen or bath	Replace with a quality brand
Leaky but high-end fixture	Repair is likely the better value
New but cheap faucet failing early	Replace with trusted brand