Maintaining your home takes a lot of effort to ensure that everything is in working order. Of all the items you watch over, one of the most important systems you need to maintain is your plumbing.
When your toilet doesn’t work properly, or it appears to be damaged, the ordeal can be frustrating. Sometimes it can be difficult to determine when it’s time to repair or give in to replacing the toilet entirely.
Fortunately, toilets (for the most part) have a long lifespan and only need to be replaced if they're cracked. For instance, the wax seal can last for more than 30 years if the toilet is not moved and the seal is not broken. However, many different parts within the toilet may need replacing more frequently, or if all else fails and it’s become a constant headache, it’s time to replace altogether.
Here are some signs to watch for in determining if it’s time for a toilet replacement.
Constant Clogging
Nobody likes to deal with a clogged toilet. While they’re not uncommon, random or recurring clogs can indicate an issue. If you have an old, low flush toilet, you may experience stoppages far too often. If you experience clogs more than once a week, or the clogs seem random and odd, you should probably replace your toilet.
Cracks
When you notice puddles of water around your toilet, you may want to check for cracks in the porcelain. While the toilet may work fine, leaks can waste a lot of water, and that water exposure can damage your flooring over time. It can also result in mould or mildew growth.
Plentiful Repairs
Toilets shouldn’t need to be constantly repaired. However, if you find yourself calling a plumber on a regular basis then consider replacing your toilet. Frequent repairs can add up, and you can save yourself a bit of cash over the years if you invest in a new toilet.
Wobbling
If your toilet wobbles, it may be a simple problem of loose screws. A plumber can easily tighten the bolts and ensure that everything is placed properly. But wobbling can also signify a bigger problem. The floor beneath the toilet may be rotting away or water damaged so if you notice wobbling, call a professional to check it out.
Inefficient Flushing
When you find that your water bills are high, investing in a new, water-efficient toilet can help keep your bills down. The average toilet uses three to five gallons of water with each flush, while a low-flush toilet uses about two gallons for every flush.
Built-Up Mineral Deposits
In areas with hard water, the minerals in the water can collect in the inlet holes and syphon tube. Such buildup can keep water from flowing effectively, making the toilet inefficient. In some cases, you may be able to clear some of the deposits away by chipping at the buildup, but this step is not always successful. If the buildup gets bad enough, your toilet may need replacement.
Call a Professional
If problems are constant with your toilet and you aren’t sure how to resolve it, contact a professional plumber. They will walk you through the process of repairing or replacing your toilet so that you can be confident that the problem is resolved and that you’re in good hands.