Toilet Replacement: Signs You Need a New One

Having a broken toilet really stinks. It is not often that most people think about their toilet. Many of us take it for granted until something goes wrong. Toilets are appliances in our homes that we just expect to work – and when they don’t, they cause problems. So, when you may need a toilet replacement? Here are a few signs that it might be time!

The Toilet’s Age

A good rule is that “if your toilet is older than you, you probably need a new one.” Toilets are made to last for several decades, but they can’t take it anymore after a certain point. If a home was built more than 30 years ago, then there’s a good chance that the toilet is original to the house.

Another rule to consider is that if a toilet was installed before 1994 should be replaced. In 1994, the Energy Policy Act of 1992 required toilets to flush with 1.6 gallons rather than the average 4.25 gallons before the law became enacted. It is an easy way to save money!

A Cracked Toilet

If you see a crack in your toilet bowl or tank, it’s time for a replacement. Cracks can lead to leaks. Leaks can lead to significant water damage in your home and expensive repairs.

A Toilet That Is Always Clogged

A clogged toilet can be a significant pain. Getting the occasional clog happens to everyone. Once or twice every so often is relatively standard. If your toilet is constantly clogging, it’s time for a new one. Consistent clogging is very common with older models because they are not as efficient as today. Additionally, an older model may require one or two additional flushes. Additional flushes can run up your water bill and be a massive waste of water.

You Have to Jiggle the Toilet Handle

It should not be necessary to jiggle a toilet handle. If you have to give it a jiggle, your plumbing is not working correctly, and it is time for a change. Toilets with worn-out handles or chains can be very frustrating, so don’t wait until it becomes a mess to replace it.

Additionally, if your toilet leaks, this could compound the issue by running up your water bill or having significant water damage.

There Is Water on the Floor Around Your Toilet

If you see any water on the floor around your toilet, it is time for a change. Toilets can leak for several reasons, but most commonly, it is because of a worn-out wax ring. Replacing a worn-out wax ring is an easy repair for a professional plumber, but it can lead to water damage or mold if you do not fix it right away.

However, if this problem persists, it might be time to swap toilets.

A Wobbly Toilet

If a toilet is wobbly or seems like it might tip over, this is also a sign that a replacement is needed. Wobbling toilets can be dangerous, and they’re also a sign that your floor is not level. Toilets that are not level can cause many problems, so it’s best to replace them as soon as possible.

Make sure it is not something that is a simple, cheap fix before you buy a new toilet. Sometimes it can be as simple as a loose bolt or a warped toilet seat.

The Toilet that Never Stops Running

A toilet that never stops running is wasting water and costing you money. It is also a sign that there are more significant issues with your toilet. Additionally, a toilet that runs for an overly long time can mean that the internal components are beginning to fail.

Sometimes this can be an easy fix. A quick replacement to the flapper or a new fill valve might do the trick. But, if it continues to run, this may be a sign of more severe problems, which means it is time to swap out the old toilet with a new one.

Always be sure to keep an eye on your water bill. If you see a sudden spike, it is worth investigating to see if there are any leaks in your home. Toilets that run constantly are among the most common causes of high water bills.

Build-up of Minerals

Over time, there can be a build-up of minerals in your toilet bowl. Mineral build-up is usually the result of using hard water. While you can use a toilet brush to remove the build-up, it will eventually become too difficult to remove.

This build-up could also cause clogging and reduce efficiency when you flush. A plumber might be able to clear some of the build-ups, but it is probably time to get a new toilet.

It No Longer Flushes

A toilet that doesn’t flush is the most obvious sign that you need to refresh your restroom. If the toilet won’t flush, it is time to get a new one. The lack of flushing is an indication that your toilet has a severe problem.

Once or even twice can be a simple clog or issue with the waterline. However, if it happens frequently, there is an underlying problem that may not be able to be repaired.

Constant Maintenance

If you are your own weekend plumber, that is a sign you need a new toilet. Toilets should not require regular maintenance to function correctly. While toilets aren’t difficult to construct, rebuilding or maintaining one might be time-consuming.

An occasional repair or component replacement is routine as the toilet ages. But if you’re constantly fixing it, that’s a sign you should get a new one.

Bad Smells

If a bathroom smells like sewage, that is a telltale sign that a new toilet is needed. There could be something wrong with the trap or the wax ring. If you’ve tried numerous times to fix the issue with no success, it might be time to replace the toilet.

Before committing to buying a replacement, you should ensure you are certain that you know where the smell is coming from. Sometimes can smell if a toilet is left unused too often. To ensure it is your toilet and not a different issue, pour a cup of water into the bowl and see if the smell dissipates. If it does, you know the issue is with your toilet and not somewhere else in your bathroom.

Check the Manufacturer’s Warranty

Most toilets come with a warranty. Look for premature aging like cracks in the bowl or tank. You might be able to replace your toilet at a heavy discount or even free of charge if it is under warranty.

Get a Plumber’s Opinion Before Buying

Sometimes your toilet doesn’t need replacing. It just needs to be repaired. It is essential to get a professional plumbing opinion before buying a whole new unit. Toilets are not cheap, so you want to be certain what needs to be done. A certified plumber will be able to tell you for sure if your toilet needs replacing or just repairing.

Certified Plumbers of Brevard Can Help!

If you are unsure whether or not your toilet needs replacing, the certified plumbers of Brevard can help. We will come to your home and inspect your toilet. Then we will give you our professional opinion. Toilet replacement is a big job. It must be done the first time correctly so that you do not have any issues down the road.

We will be happy to install your new toilet if you need a replacement. Our team is committed to your satisfaction, and we will make sure that it is installed correctly and that you are happy with it before we leave. Toilets are an essential part of any home, and we should take care of them properly. Call Certified Plumbers of Brevard today for all of your plumbing needs!