Signs You Need to Upgrade Your Plumbing System
March 3, 2025
Although your plumbing system is durable and can last for years, it can still be subject to general wear and tear, deteriorating over time. This could result in damaged and faulty components and other issues affecting overall performance, like leaks and clogs.
While some plumbing problems can be solved with simple repairs, others may require a total replacement. Here are some signs you need a plumbing upgrade:
Outdated Plumbing System
When your plumbing system has been in place for over 50 years, it might be time for an upgrade. Plumbing fixtures and components have dedicated lifespans, and using them past that could result in suboptimal performance and significant issues, like clogs and inconsistent water pressure. If you’re unsure about your system’s age and are considering updating it, it’s best to call a plumber for a professional inspection.
When your plumbing system has been in place for over 50 years, it might be time for an upgrade. Plumbing fixtures and components have dedicated lifespans, and using them past that could result in suboptimal performance and significant issues, like clogs and inconsistent water pressure. If you’re unsure about your system’s age and are considering updating it, it’s best to call a plumber for a professional inspection.
High Water Bills
A sudden and constant increase in your water bills should be a cause for concern, especially if your daily usage hasn’t changed. This means that there might be an issue in your plumbing system that needs to be addressed. Your pipes may have a hidden leak, or they’re not as efficient as they used to be. When this occurs, upgrading your plumbing will help ensure optimal functionality and save you money in the long run.
Frequent Repairs
If the occasional leak or clog has become so common that you’re constantly making repairs, it’s a clear sign that your plumbing needs an upgrade. Replacing old fixtures, components, and fittings with more efficient and durable options is more cost-effective than frequent minor repairs. Aside from solving plumbing issues, upgrading your system can also prevent recurrences that could lead to more severe and costly problems.
Mold or Mildew
Finding mold or mildew in your walls, ceilings, or under sinks could indicate a leak in your piping. Leaving this problem unattended can result in significant water damage or health issues caused by mold exposure, so prompt attention is crucial. Upgrading your plumbing lines, especially if there’s extensive damage, helps ensure that your system will run optimally for years.
Consult a Trusted Plumber Near You
Now that you know about these signs, you can better determine whether you need to upgrade your plumbing fixtures and components. To ensure a proper diagnosis and the best solution, you can always hire a plumber. Contact our team at NorthStar Plumbing
and Drain Cleaning for professional re-piping, remodeling, and plumbing system installation in Fargo, ND.

As summer winds down and the back-to-school season picks up, it’s easy to put home maintenance on the back burner. But if you want to avoid costly plumbing issues this fall and winter, now is the perfect time to knock out a few important fixes. Here are 5 plumbing tasks every homeowner should tackle before the seasons changes and why doing them now can save you time, money, and stress later. 1. Find and Fix Hidden Leaks That tiny drip under your sink or behind the toilet might not seem like a big deal — but it adds up fast. Not only can leaks lead to water damage, but they also waste gallons of water (and dollars) every month. A quick inspection now can prevent a much bigger headache when temperatures drop and pipes become more vulnerable. 2. Test Your Sump Pump Late summer storms and early fall rain can overload your drainage system if your sump pump isn’t working properly. If it’s been a while since it was last checked, now’s the time. We’ll make sure everything is operating smoothly so you’re protected during heavy rain or unexpected snow melt. 3. Clear Out Slow Drains Are your sinks or tubs draining slower than usual? Hair, soap, and debris can build up over time, especially during the high-use summer months. A professional drain cleaning ensures water flows freely and helps prevent backups during the colder months when pipes can contract and clog more easily. 4. Inspect Your Water Heater No one wants to be stuck with a freezing shower in October. Your water heater has worked hard all summer and now’s the time for a quick inspection. We’ll check for signs of wear, flush out sediment buildup, and make sure it’s running efficiently before the weather cools. 5. Prep Your Outdoor Plumbing It’s not quite time to winterize your outdoor faucets and irrigation lines, but you can still get ahead by checking for leaks, replacing worn washers, and making sure everything shuts off properly. Come October, you’ll be glad you planned ahead. ✅ Ready to Prep Your Plumbing for Fall? NorthStar Plumbing & Drain Cleaning offers honest, reliable service for Fargo–Moorhead homeowners whether you need a quick fix, routine checkup, or full system inspection. Book your pre-fall plumbing service now and step into the new season with confidence.
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