The Hidden Dangers of Old Faucets: Should You Upgrade Now?

Your faucet might be putting your family’s health at risk—and you may not even know it. Even if your old faucet looks good, that doesn’t mean it’s working properly. Aging faucets can develop biofilms—thin layers of bacteria—inside their internal components, potentially leading to water contamination. Corrosion and worn-out parts are also common issues, increasing the risk of sudden faucet failure.

Today, we’ll uncover hidden dangers like these and the signs that indicate it’s time to upgrade to a modern faucet.

Table of Contents

• What Makes a Faucet ‘Old’?
• The Hidden Dangers of Aging Faucets
• Signs It’s Time to Upgrade Your Faucet
• Conclusion

What Makes a Faucet ‘Old’?

Not all faucets are created equal. Some last longer than others due to differences in quality and design. Beyond that, several factors can affect your faucet’s lifespan, such as the hardness of your local water supply, whether you use a water softener, and how frequently the faucet is used.

Several other factors contribute to potential risks:

• Manufacturing Date: Faucets made before 2014 may contain lead due to outdated regulations.
• Material Wear: Brass, stainless steel, and plastic faucets degrade differently over time.
• Internal Component Breakdown: Rubber washers and seals deteriorate, leading to leaks and bacterial buildup.
• Water Inefficiency: Older models use more water compared to modern, low-flow designs.

If your faucet has been in use for over a decade, it's time for a thorough inspection to identify potential risks.

The Hidden Dangers of Aging Faucets

1. Lead & Heavy Metal Contamination

According to the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority, most faucets purchased prior to 1997 were constructed of brass or chrome-plated brass, which contain up to 8 percent lead.

This means that water sitting for several hours or overnight in such faucets can leach lead from the brass interior, potentially producing high lead levels in the first draw of drinking water.

Since 2014, regulations have limited lead content in faucets to 0.25% or less, making modern models significantly safer. However, if your faucet is older, especially pre-1997, lead exposure remains a real concern.

Even a small amount of lead exposure can be harmful, particularly to children and pregnant women.

2. Bacterial & Biofilm Growth

Old faucets can become breeding grounds for bacteria due to the buildup of biofilms—thin, sticky layers of microorganisms that adhere to internal surfaces. Over time, these biofilms can harbor potentially harmful bacteria, including Legionella, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli, which may contaminate your drinking water.

Factors that contribute to biofilm formation in aging faucets include:

• Deteriorating Seals and Washers: As rubber components break down, they create crevices where bacteria can thrive.
• Corrosion and Mineral Deposits: Worn-out internal surfaces provide ideal conditions for microbial attachment and growth.
• Inconsistent Water Flow: Low water pressure or infrequent use can allow bacteria to multiply within stagnant water.

Studies suggest that biofilms in faucet aerators and internal components can be difficult to fully eliminate, even with regular cleaning. While disinfecting your faucet can help, replacing an aging model with a modern, antimicrobial design is the most effective way to reduce the risk of bacterial contamination.

3. Hidden Leaks

Small leaks may not seem like a big deal if fixed quickly. However, when left unnoticed or untreated, they can cause significant damage, including mold growth and wood rot—both of which can contribute to water contamination. In more severe cases, hidden leaks can compromise the structural integrity of your home, leading to costly repairs.

4. Sudden Mechanical Failure

While more noticeable than hidden leaks, corrosion and worn-out components in aging faucets can still pose serious risks. As faucets reach the end of their lifespan, deteriorating parts can lead to malfunctions or even complete system failure. This can result in excessive water waste—or, in worst-case scenarios, sudden leaks and flooding.

5. Water Waste & Higher Bills

A dripping faucet may seem minor, but it can waste 2,500–3,000 gallons of water per year—the equivalent of nearly 200 full showers. Even if your faucet isn’t leaking, older models tend to use significantly more water than modern, low-flow designs.

Newer faucets are engineered to maintain the same level of performance while using up to 50% less water. Upgrading to a water-efficient model not only conserves water but also reduces your utility bills in the long run.

Related: 7 Faucet Myths You Need to Stop Believing Right Now

Signs It’s Time to Upgrade Your Faucet

Wondering if your faucet needs replacing? Look for these warning signs:

• Rust, corrosion, or mineral buildup on the surface or inside the aerator.
• Frequent leaks or dripping, even after repairs.
• Low water pressure due to clogged pipes or internal deterioration.
• Discolored or bad-tasting water, which may indicate contamination.
• Difficult operation, such as stiff or loose handles.

If you notice any of these issues, an upgrade could improve both safety and efficiency.

Conclusion

With careful attention and professional guidance, old faucets don’t have to be a danger. However, the likelihood of them becoming problematic is higher compared to new models. Additionally, upgrading to a more efficient faucet will benefit your bills, which is always a plus.

At Cleo Faucets, we prioritize your health, and checking the condition of your old faucet is a smart decision. And if you decide to upgrade your faucet afterward, you know where to go.

FAQ

Do faucets go bad?

Yes, but it depends on the model and the time of purchase. In general, all faucets have a lifespan of 10-15 years maximum.

How do I know if my pipes are old?

If your water bills are rising without explanation, the water feels rusty or has a bad smell, and upon checking the pipes, you notice peeling paint, leaks, mold, or wet stains on the wall, your pipes may be old and in need of attention.