Older homes come with character, but rusty water, low pressure, and hidden leaks are common complaints in houses that delay plumbing upgrades for years. Homeowners looking for reliable plumbing in Milwaukee can make a few strategic changes to prevent costly repairs later on. Below, Feltner Sewer and Drain explains the top upgrades to consider for older homes in the area.
The Best Plumbing Upgrades for Older Homes
Targeted plumbing upgrades can breathe new life into an older home. Many homes built before the 1980s still have original galvanized steel or cast iron pipes, which corrode.
Modern households tend to use more appliances and more hot water than in the past. You need plumbing systems that can keep up with these demands. If you want to skip the stress of an outdated system, implementing the six plumbing upgrades below could be a great move for you.
1. Whole-Home Repiping Jobs
If your home still has galvanized steel, polybutylene, or lead pipes, you might need to replace your entire supply line system. Unlike addressing one failing section at a time, repiping means tearing out all of the plumbing for a fresh start, fewer emergency calls, and cleaner water overall. Repiping also gives your plumber a chance to correct any undersized lines or poor routing choices.
2. PEX Piping Installations
Cross-linked polyethylene performs in a wide range of conditions. The PEX piping installation process is also often faster and less disruptive because it can be routed around existing framing. PEX resists freezing better than older pipe materials, which is helpful in Milwaukee.
3. Water Pressure Regulation Systems
Low water pressure is a common complaint in older homes, and water pressure regulation systems address the problem directly. A booster pump with a pressure tank and controller can be installed on the main water line to increase and maintain consistent pressure throughout the home, improving flow at fixtures and helping appliances operate more effectively.
4. Tankless Water Heater Installations
Traditional tank heaters keep a large supply of water hot around the clock, which burns energy even when no one is using hot water. Today’s tankless water heaters can replace this bulky storage with an on-demand unit. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, tankless water heaters can be 24% to 34% more energy-efficient than conventional tanks for homes that use 41 gallons or less of hot water daily.
5. Fixture and Faucet Upgrades
Fixture upgrades add value if you are trying to sell. Past manufacturers did not prioritize water conservation, so a toilet from the 1980s might use up to six gallons per flush, while a current WaterSense-certified model uses as little as 1.28 gallons. A few ideas for effective fixture upgrades include low-flow toilets, faucet aerators, water-saving faucets, and low-flow showerheads that reduce water use and heating costs.
6. Leak Detection Systems
Hidden leaks are destructive, and this problem is especially common in older homes with weak pipes and joints. A plumber can install sensors near your water heater, under your sinks, around the toilets, and by appliances, connecting them to a smartphone app. Some advanced options even automatically shut off your water supply if a significant leak is detected, which can prevent major flooding.
Feltner Sewer and Drain Is Ready To Help With Your Plumbing Upgrades
Making the right plumbing upgrades in an older home is a smart investment in comfort, efficiency, and long-term property value. At Feltner Sewer and Drain, we know that older Milwaukee homes have a lot to offer. We encourage property owners to contact us about plumbing updates sooner rather than later.
Call us at (866) 335-8637 today for a free estimate.
Frequently Asked Questions
These are common things homeowners ask about plumbing upgrades.
How Do You Know When It’s Time To Repipe an Older Home?
The age of the plumbing system indicates when it is time to repipe the home. Plumbers recommend a professional inspection once your system reaches 40 to 50 years old, even if no visible problems have appeared yet.
What Are the Signs of a Hidden Water Leak in an Older Home?
Signs of hidden water leaks might include an unexplained jump in your monthly water bill, musty odors, soft or discolored patches on drywall or ceilings, and floors that feel spongy near plumbing fixtures.
How Much Does It Cost To Repipe a House With PEX?
If you repipe your house with PEX, the total cost will depend on:
- The number of bathrooms
- The square footage
- The accessibility of the piping
- The permits
Collecting two or three quotes from licensed plumbers can give you a good idea of the cost of your plumbing upgrades.
