How to Know When It’s Time for a New Toilet
Repairing your current toilet can be an affordable and easy fix to many toilet problems. However, there are times when a new toilet is the best option. If you have an old, inefficient toilet that continues to break down on you or has other problems that can’t be fixed, replacing it with a new one might be the best decision for your home.
Newer models are also much more energy efficient, which means less water and electricity usage. An older toilet can cost you a lot of wasted water, so it’s always best to get a more efficient model that will save you money in the long run. Even if your toilet appears to be working fine, there are several signs you should get a new one immediately. Here are some ways to know when it’s time for a new toilet:
1. Constant Clogging
A toilet often clogs because of the material that flushes away waste. Most toilets use a flush valve that can be adjusted to control how fast the water is released. If your toilet is often clogged, it’s likely because the handle is being turned too slowly. This can also cause your toilet to beep when you flush, which means there is something wrong with the flushing mechanism.
If you want to fix your toilet clogging issues, you may need to replace the handle and the flushing mechanism. However, try adjusting your water pressure if this isn’t an option. You may also have a slow-flushing valve if your water isn’t very clean. If this issue persists for more than a few weeks, consider replacing the toilet with one of high-quality.
2. Inefficient Flushing
There are a lot of factors that affect the efficiency of your toilet, and one of them is the flushing mechanism. If your toilet flushes slower than it used to, this could be a sign that you need to replace it. If you only have one toilet in your house, this is likely an issue because normal wear and tear over time can cause a toilet’s flush valve to slow down.
Once you notice that the flush handle is turning slowly in the bowl or that the water flow is slower than usual, you may want to replace your toilet before it becomes a bigger problem. There are several styles of toilets that use less water and don’t clog as often as older models.
3. Constant Repairs or Maintenance
Toilets do not require constant repairs and maintenance. However, if you notice that your toilet is constantly being repaired, it’s a good sign that it needs to be replaced sooner rather than later.
It may also be time to install a new toilet model. Toilet installation is a complicated process, so if you’re not sure what kind of toilet to install, we recommend taking the advice of a professional from Hansen Family Plumbing.
4. Built-Up Mineral Deposits
A toilet clogs because of mineral deposits that build up in the flushing mechanism. This can be caused by hard water, which contains a lot of minerals or sediment. It can also be caused by a lack of maintenance, especially if you’re not flushing your toilet as often as it should.
If you have hard water and are still having plumbing issues with your toilet, you can clean the mineral deposits with a special spray. You may also need to replace the flushing mechanism if it’s very old or worn out. If this isn’t an option, try replacing the handle and the flapper. If these parts are worn out or broken, consider replacing the toilet with a high-quality model that will last much longer than the standard version.
5. Excessive Age
Your toilet is a piece of machinery that isn’t meant to last long. If you have a toilet that has been around for years, it’s probably time to replace it. The lifespan of a toilet depends on how often you use it and how well you care for the unit.
If your toilet has been used for many years, the flushing mechanism may be worn out or need to be replaced. The water seal will also wear down over time, which can cause your water to leak from the tank or bowl.
If your toilet is still in good shape but you think it’s time to upgrade, consider a new toilet installation. The new toilet should have features like dual flush technology or a larger flush tank. These are some of the most energy-efficient options available today, so they will save you money on your monthly water bill while saving your toilet from clogging.
6. Cracks
Cracked toilet bowls are one of the most common signs that you need to replace a toilet. Most of the time, cracks appear in the toilet bowl because of a leak in the tank. Leaks can be caused by old or worn flappers, rubber gaskets, and other parts of the plumbing system that can fail.
If this is the case for your toilet, you’ll have it fixed immediately. You’ll also need to replace broken parts because they may cause more severe damage if they continue to break down over time.
If you have a leak in the tank, you can check to see if there’s a crack in the bowl by inspecting the overflow tube. If there is, replace the bowl instead of your whole plumbing system.
7. Leaking Toilet
A leaky toilet is a sign of a broken toilet. Many things can cause a toilet to leak, including old seals, wax rings, or pipes. If you notice a small amount of water, you should replace it. If a toilet is leaking, water will leak from the tank, bowl, or even the bottom.
This is because there’s a hole in the tank or another toilet part letting water in. If this is broken or cracked, water can leak out of the bowl and into the floor. This can cause a lot of damage to your bathroom, and it’s difficult and expensive to repair. To fix this leaky toilet, you can replace it with a new one. You should call Hansen Family Plumbing to help with toilet replacement.
8. Wobbling
Wobbling is a common problem when the toilet bowl isn’t balanced. A toilet that wobbles is probably unstable and can be dangerous. A toilet is wobbly because the bolts that hold it to the floor are loose. This is often caused by a faulty gasket or a loose bolt, which can be fixed with a new toilet sealant.
The bolts and nuts that hold your toilet down should never move or loosen over time, so if you feel like your toilet is slowly moving on its own, check to see if the bolts are still tight and replace them. If you have an older toilet not designed to be bolted in place, you may need to replace it with a newer model with bolts that go through the base and into the floor.
9. Rust in Your Tank
Rust in your toilet tank signifies that it needs to be replaced. Rust on the inside of the tank can cause leaks and damage the seals, leading to costly repairs. Toilet tanks are made of plastic, and they can crack if they’re not properly maintained. This is why you should replace your toilet tank after five years or when it cracks or has rust.
If you want to replace your toilet tank, look for a unit with an elongated rubber seal that fits around the entire tank’s circumference. These models are much more durable than standard models and will keep water from leaking out of your toilet until you need to replace it again in five years.