Signs That It’s Time to Say Goodbye to Your Old Toilet

While the kitchen is often the most used room in a home, bathrooms have got to be a very close second — and at the center of it all is the toilet. On average, each person will use the toilet anywhere from six to seven times per day. That’s a lot of miles. And as a toilet gets older, those miles can lead to more frequent clogging, repairs, and damage. 

This naturally begs the question, when do you know it’s time to bid farewell to your old toilet? There are several signs, and the following are often the most common: 

Constant clogging

Toilets will clog from time to time. There’s no getting around that. But when it starts to happen with greater frequency, the old toilet may be nearing the end of its functionality. However, before replacing it with a newer model, it's advisable to contact your plumber. Frequent clogging can also be a sign of a blockage within the actual pipes. A technician may need to come in and clean the pipes to remove the problem. 

Constant running

Do you often hear the faint sound of water running? It’s probably your toilet. If that’s the case, the parts for old toilets of greatest concern will be the flapper and/or fill valve — both of which give out over time but are quite easy to replace on your own. If neither does the trick, your toilet is probably past its usefulness. 

Cracked tank

As toilets age, tanks can begin to crack. The location of a crack will determine whether a repair can extend the life of an old toilet. Cracks below the tank's water line (as well as any within the bowl itself) can become especially problematic. While you can certainly replace the tank, replacing the entire unit is often more economical in the long run. 

Frequent repairs

Toilets are like any other home appliance. If you find yourself repairing your old toilet with increased frequency, it’s probably circling the drain — pun intended. The last thing you want is to throw money away on repairs when new toilets are relatively affordable, depending on the brand, model, and features. 

High water bills

An unexplained increase in your water bill, especially if consistent over two to three months, indicates a plumbing issue. However, water usage naturally varies throughout the year. That’s especially true when the unexplained increase occurs two to three months in a row. The likeliest of culprits is an old toilet, but bring out a professional to determine whether the source of the problem is your home’s plumbing. 

Leaking toilet

Leaks often go unnoticed if they don't result in visible puddles on the floor. Again, an unusually high water bill can indicate that your toilet has sprung a leak. Check the flapper and fill valve, the supply line, connectors, and float (which sit on top of the water to disengage the supply). 

If none are causing the problem, call a plumber. You may need to do more than replace your old toilet. Re-piping services may be in order, as you could be dealing with a leak further down the line. 

Mineral deposit buildup

While mineral deposits might seem minor, their buildup can obstruct water flow, clog the inlets, and render the toilet inefficient. And while some deposits can be cleared away, others will be there for good. It’s often best to look into a replacement for your toilet. 

No longer flushes

A lack of flushing may be due to an issue with the toilet flush handle. The component can detach. If that’s not the culprit, chances are good that no number of repairs will be long-lasting. It’s often better to replace the old toilet. 

Surface damage

Surface damage solely to the toilet lid is not a cause for replacing the entire toilet. That’s just a matter of swapping the old lid for a new one. Other surface damage, however, may become problematic with time — and not for the aesthetics. Scratches, abrasions, and other signs of wear and tear can make cleaning the toilet difficult, and you may find yourself back at the basin with a scrub brush in hand more frequently. 

Age

Age is the most telling among all the signs indicating a need to replace an old toilet. If you want to limit the potential for serious problems, a good rule of thumb is to replace the toilet every 25 years or so. 

If you’re dealing with frequent toilet headaches or constantly searching for parts for old toilets, the time has probably come for a replacement. Before you do, however, it’s advisable to contact a professional to determine whether other issues could be the source of the problem. The team at Superior Plumbing and Pipe Lining is here to help with a range of services including toilet replacement, water heater installation services, and more. Contact us today for professional assistance and guidance with your plumbing needs