Not every toilet issue necessarily means that it’s time to replace the entire fixture. However, frequent issues like clogging, never-ending flushes and visible damage could point to a replacement being your best option. Ongoing toilet problems can skyrocket your water bills and put your home at risk of flooding and extensive water damage. Keep an eye out for these signs that may indicate that you need a new toilet installed.
Frequent Clogging
Clogged toilets are a common, low-risk issue that every household occasionally faces. They become a problem when you have to plunge your toilet several times per month or even more than once per week. If your clog-prone toilet is more than 20 to 30 years old, it’s likely nearing the end of its lifespan. Older, low-flush toilets, for example, often require more than one flush to wash everything down. This wastes water and increases their chances of getting random clogs. Investing in a new fixture will minimize your blockages and give you access to new toilet features.
Constant Repair Needs
The older your toilet becomes, the more common it becomes that you’ll be faced with instances of repairs and replacement parts. Certain components like the toilet handle, fill valve or flapper may suddenly stop working, compromising the toilet’s entire ability to function. While some of these repairs are easy, others require a lot of money and time. It’s best to weigh your regular repair costs against the price of a new toilet. While new fixtures tend to be a large upfront investment, they’ll save you more money in the long run.
Crack in the Porcelain
Cracks can form in your toilet tank or bowl due to age or bolt over-tightening. Having something hit the toilet or fall into it can cause damage as well. These hairline fractures may seem harmless, but they can easily become the source of an active leak. Always thoroughly check your toilet for exterior damage when doing your regular cleaning. Replacing a cracked toilet as soon as possible will save you from a flooding emergency and a ruined floor.
Water Leaks
Toilet leaks can easily go unnoticed for months. They’re often harder to notice because they don’t leave water around the toilet itself. These leaks allow moisture to seep into your flooring and sub flooring. One of the most noticeable signs of a toilet leak is an increase in your water bill. If you start to see water spots forming on the ceiling below your bathroom, call for service immediately.
Never-Ending Flushes
Every time you flush your toilet, you should hear water running for a short time before it shuts off. That sound means water is filling the tank, preparing the toilet for another flush. If the water continues to run for a number of minutes or longer, that could be a sign of a flapper issue or a broken fill valve.
Running toilets waste massive amounts of water. If the problem persists after you’ve tried part replacements and professional service, consider replacing the whole toilet before your water bill gets out of hand.
Visible Scratches or Damage
Over time, your toilet can accrue scratches and other surface-level issues. While these scrapes won’t necessarily compromise the toilet’s safety, they can make it harder to keep the fixture clean. The scratches will attract lint, dust, dirt and other particulates commonly found in your bathroom. Without a prompt toilet replacement, you may find yourself having to scrub the bowl multiple times a week.
Missing Features
Your toilet doesn’t have to be broken to consider investing in a new one. Older homes are more likely to have outdated toilets with minimal features. Modern toilets come with powerful flushes, low-water settings, slow-close seats, bidets, different bowl shapes and a variety of colors and designs. Rather than waiting a few decades for your toilet to stop working, you can replace it now to give your family the gift of a beautiful and efficient bathroom.
Respectable and Honest Plumbing Company
TYCO Plumbing can handle any type of residential plumbing issue in Brighton, CO, and the surrounding communities. Our family-owned business is dedicated to delivering honest, ethical and professional service. Our licensed plumbers have years of experience installing garbage disposals, servicing toilets and maintaining kitchen plumbing systems. We’re ready to repair your water heater, service your gas lines and find the source of any new leaks. Keep our reliable team in mind if you need help with bigger projects like whole-home plumbing remodels. Schedule your next residential plumbing appointment today with Brighton’s own TYCO Plumbing.
