Toilet conversations might not be suitable for dinner table discussions, but ignoring potential toilet issues can lead to costly repairs or even a plumbing disaster.
Plumbing Doctor® has compiled a quick and easy 7-step checklist to help identify if you just need a little plumbing help or need a brand new toilet for your home.
There are various indicators that signal when it might be the right time to replace your toilet. Some are easy to assess like age and condition and some indicators are just beneath the surface that may require a plumbing professional to help.
Here are a few things to consider as well as tips on when to seek the help of a professional.
1. Aging Toilets
Toilets, like many things, don’t last forever. While opinions may differ on how long a toilet should last, it’s essential to consider a replacement if your toilet is at least 25 years old. Some may recommend sooner but conditions and of course, advice from a professional can aid in making that decision.
For example, older toilets tend to be less efficient, contributing to higher water bills. Technological advancements have led to new fixtures that not only conserve water but also provide improved functionality.
In addition to this, toilets installed after 1994 must adhere to the Energy Policy Act of 1992, requiring a flush volume of 1.6 gallons per flush.
2. Identifying Cracks
Water puddles near the base of your toilet can be a cause for concern, potentially indicating a cracked tank. Conduct a thorough inspection of both the interior and exterior of the tank. If the crack is below the water line, a mere repair may not suffice, and a complete toilet tank replacement could be in order.
Many homeowners opt for a full toilet replacement in such cases, ensuring a more durable and efficient fixture.Typically this is not a DIY situation for most people and reaching out to a plumbing professional is suggested.
3. Detecting Water Wastage
Unlike cracks, toilet leaks can go unnoticed for a long time. They are often quiet and slow-building problems when it comes to issues with your toilet.
Keep an eye on things like your water bill for sudden spikes. Leaking toilets can lead to excessive water usage. Beyond the financial implications, a leaking toilet poses the risk of damaging flooring and subflooring. For older toilets experiencing leaks, the most cost-effective solution is often a complete replacement.
4. The Never-Ending Flush
Dealing with a constantly running toilet can be both annoying and wasteful. While some issues like a faulty flapper valve can be temporarily fixed, persistent problems may indicate more significant problems.
Ignoring a continually running toilet is more than an annoyance, it can result in increased water bills and the need for frequent repairs. It’s important not to disregard this issue. The more you take every plumbing issue into consideration, the less likely you are to have bigger issues down the road that may come with a much greater cost.
5. Continuous Repairs
We have all either heard of this or gone through this at some time. Unless you’re a plumbing expert or an avid DIY enthusiast, consistently repairing your toilet every weekend may be a sign that it’s time for a change. Toilets, with their numerous working parts, can become a hassle to maintain.
If you find yourself regularly replacing components, it’s worth considering the cost of both parts and your time. This evaluation may highlight the practicality of investing in a new, more reliable toilet.
6. Frequent Blockages
While occasional clogs are normal, frequent and persistent blockages unrelated to preventable issues may indicate a problem with your toilet. Start here by considering how and what is flushed. It could just be a little due diligence or periodical home maintenance that can help.
Also, check in with a plumbing professional if it appears a little difficult to figure out. If your plumber rules out pipeline issues, consider replacing your aging toilet with a more efficient fixture. Newer toilets are designed to minimize clogs, offering improved functionality and reducing the need for frequent plunging.
7. Non-Flushing Toilet
Encountering a toilet that won’t flush, despite your troubleshooting efforts, signals a significant problem. Rather than attempting various fixes, it’s crucial to rule out other plumbing issues first. If the problem persists, it’s likely time to replace the non-functioning toilet with a more reliable and efficient model.
A broken toilet is an inconvenience, and timely replacement can prevent further complications which of course, we all know, may mean extra costs.
Recognizing the signs indicating when to replace your toilet is vital for maintaining a functional and efficient plumbing system.
If any of the mentioned issues arise, don’t hesitate to seek professional assistance to ensure a smooth transition to a new and improved toilet.
Plumbing Doctor® has over 40 years of experience in these issues and is happy to help guide you toward fixing the issues you have in and around your home. Contact us today!