7 Signs You Need a Toilet Replacement

Feb 20, 2018

When your toilet stops working, the most obvious conclusion is that you need toilet replacement. But, it is not necessarily the only solution.

Knowing whether or not it is time to buy a new toilet can be difficult. There are many factors involved such as the age of the toilet, the location of the toilet, as well as the condition of the floor surrounding the toilet.

You may have even found that your guests have begun to complain about your toilet, or maybe you keep having to mop up mysterious water puddles in your bathroom.

Whatever the case is for you, knowing when to replace your toilet is important and should be done as quickly as possible. So keep reading to find out if it is time for an upgrade.

1. Constant Clogging

Noone wants to have to deal with a clogged toilet. Unfortunately, they’re pretty common. This is especially true for low flush toilets that use less water than the standard.

That is why it is important that everyone knows how to clear a blocked toilet so that they can take care of clogs as they occur.

Although the occasional clog is normal for a toilet, if you have more clogs than usual, it could be a sign that you need toilet replacement. Luckily, with new technology has come better-made toilets.

Today’s low flush models are much less prone to clogging than their aging counterparts. They use pressurized air in the tank to force waste out of the bowl. If you decide to go with a low flush model, you should know that many of these toilets also require a power source.

2. Cracks

If you begin to notice puddles of water forming around your toilet, you should look for cracks in the porcelain. Even if the toilet itself is working fine, small leaks can cause it to waste a lot of water.

That water, when exposed to your floor, can lead to severe damage and rot. It can also cause mold and mildew to grow which is unhealthy for your family.

That is why it is so important that you inspect your toilet for cracks in the bowl or tank. If you notice that there are any there, or if it seems like your toilet is constantly running, then you need toilet replacement right away.

If you don’t see any cracks, but you still think your toilet is leaking, then you should purchase some dye for the water. Simply add it to the tank and see if any of that dyed water makes it to the floor when you go to flush the toilet. Then you can follow the trail of dye to the source of the leak.

3. Too Many Repairs

There is no reason that a toilet should need regular repair. If you find yourself calling the plumber often, then you should consider toilet replacement.

The cost of small repairs adds up over time. It may be cheaper for you to replace the model you currently are using. Be sure to discuss this idea with your plumber. They can help you weigh the pros and cons of your potential toilet replacement.

4. Age

There are plenty of old toilets out there that still work just fine. But older toilet models were much less efficient than the ones made today.

You may find that through toilet replacement, you can save both money and water. That means you’ll be helping your pocketbook at the same time as helping the environment.

One of the best innovations in toilets in recent years was the dual-flush model. These allow you to flush with different volumes of water based on whether the waste was liquid or solid. They are a great way to reduce utility costs and conserve water.

5. Wobbling

A wobbling toilet could be just a simple fix. A lot of times the only thing wrong is that the screws are loose that hold the bowl to the floor. If that is the case, then a plumber would be able to easily tighten the bolts on your toilet, ensuring it stays in place. They can also perform pipe maintenance while they are there.

But wobbling may signify a more serious issue. It could be that the floor beneath your toilet is becoming water damaged and starting to rot away. If that is the case you will need toilet replacement. You will also need to replace the floor around the toilet if it is damaged.

6. Surface Damages

Toilets are ugly enough when they are new, but if you have scratches on the surface of your toilet, it is even worse. These scratches aren’t just the cosmetic issue they seem.

Scratches in the porcelain of your toilet can make it difficult for you to keep it clean. They make a great place for bacteria to grow.

7. Built-Up Mineral Deposits

If you live in an area that has hard water, the minerals in it can collect in the inlet holes and siphon tube of your toilet. This buildup can cause the water in your toilet to flow inefficiently.

In some cases, you can remove the buildup by chipping away at the mineral deposits with a pick and a hammer, but this doesn’t always work. If the buildup in your toilet is really bad, you may be in need of a toilet replacement.

Deciding on Toilet Replacement

By considering the state of your current toilet, you will know whether you are ready to purchase a new one. Look for surface damages, mineral deposits, wobbling, leaks, and age to signify it is time for a replacement.

If you do decide to replace your toilet, you should consider a dual flush, or low flush model to be environmentally friendly.