Yeah, I totally get where you’re coming from. A lot of those “smart” fixtures just add extra layers of stuff that can break, and half the time parts aren’t even stocked locally. I’ve seen plenty of folks swap out fancy faucets for basic ones after a sensor or solenoid goes bad. Honestly, if you stick with tried-and-true models, repairs are way less hassle and you’ll save yourself a headache down the line. Some of the new tech is neat, but for everyday use? Simpler usually wins out in my book.
Couldn’t agree more with your take on the “smart” fixtures. I’ve had my share of headaches when tenants call about a faucet that won’t turn on because the sensor’s acting up, and then you find out the replacement part is backordered for weeks. It’s not just the cost—it’s the downtime and frustration, too.
That said, I do see some value in certain tech upgrades, like touchless faucets in public or high-traffic areas where hygiene is a bigger concern. But for most rentals or even personal homes, I’ve found that sticking with solid, mechanical fixtures pays off in the long run. Less to go wrong, easier to fix, and parts are almost always available at the local hardware store.
It’s tempting to go for the latest thing, but I’ve learned that reliability usually trumps bells and whistles, especially when you’re managing multiple units. If it’s not broke, don’t fix it... or at least don’t make it more complicated than it needs to be.
Yeah, I hear you on the smart fixtures. I’ve replaced more sensor faucets than I care to admit, and it’s always some tiny part you can’t get locally. For rentals, I stick with tried-and-true brands—Delta, Moen, even the basic stuff from the supply house. Tenants just want it to work, not talk to their phone. If you’re not running a hospital or airport, the old-school gear is usually the way to go.
Had a landlord once who tried to “upgrade” everything in my unit with those touchless faucets and fancy shower heads. It was all cool for about a week… then the faucet started acting possessed—randomly turning on at 2am, which is not what you want when you’re half asleep and the bathroom sounds like Niagara Falls. Ended up having to call him every other month for some new sensor issue. I totally get why you’d stick with the classics.
Honestly, I’m always a bit wary of anything with too many bells and whistles, especially in rentals. If it needs a battery or an app, I just picture myself trying to explain it to a tenant over the phone while they’re panicking about a leak. The old-school stuff might not be flashy, but it’s reliable, and you can actually fix it with what’s in your toolbox.
I will say, I’ve seen a couple of newer models from Moen that seem sturdier than the older ones, but I’m still not convinced they’re worth the extra hassle. Maybe I’m just paranoid after too many “smart” disasters, but I’d rather play it safe.
Honestly, I’m with you on the “less is more” approach, especially for rentals. Here’s how I see it:
- Fewer electronics = fewer things that can go wrong at 2am.
- If it needs a special tool or an app, I’m already worried about repairs.
- Classic fixtures are usually cheaper to fix and parts are everywhere.
But I’m curious—has anyone actually had a touchless faucet that *didn’t* act up? Or is it just a matter of time before the sensors get weird?
