When Should I Replace my Toilet?

When Should I Replace my Toilet?

Are you having problems with a toilet in your home? If so, you are probably considering either repair or replacement. While minor issues with toilets can often be repaired, there are many instances in which it is more beneficial to replace your toilet altogether rather than have it fixed. For example, a toilet that leaks or has recurring problems may need to be replaced. Furthermore, there are many benefits to replacing your current toilet with a more efficient WaterSense toilet. No matter what you decide, Albuquerque Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is here for all of your toilet repair and replacement needs.

Frequent Repairs & Clogs

One major reason to seek a replacement toilet is if your toilet frequently has problems. First, a toilet that needs constant repairs should be replaced. There are many areas of your toilet that can be repaired or replaced, including the flapper, handle, and fill valve. While these repairs are simple, they will ultimately cost you more than a replacement toilet. Consider the expenses that your toilet has brought, and weigh them against the cost of a new toilet.

In addition to frequent repairs, a toilet that clogs frequently should also be replaced. If your toilet needs to be unclogged more than one time very week, this can easily become a huge annoyance and time waster. Low flush toilets that are old and less efficient commonly have this issue, and the more modern versions will save you even more money on your water bill in the long run.

Porcelain Cracks & Scratches

Another minor issue with your toilet that could turn into a major problem is cracking in the porcelain of your toilet. Porcelain cracks often occur in the bowl and the tank of your toilet as small, hairline fractures. While they may seem innocuous, porcelain cracks can quickly become leaks or even a flood in your bathroom as they grow larger. When cleaning your toilet, you should inspect for any such cracks. In addition, watch for leaks when you flush the toilet.

Along with porcelain cracks, scratches on your toilet are another minor issue that can become more major. Scratches on the surface of your toilet occur as it becomes older and more worn out. This can make it hard for you to keep your toilet clean. While this may not seem like a major problem, over time, it will become more and more difficult to fully clean your toilet, which can become simply unpleasant or even unsanitary for you and your family.

Leaking & Inefficiency

Leaks are a major sign of a toilet that needs to be replaced. Unfortunately, leaks in your toilet are often difficult to detect and can remain unnoticed until your home has faced severe water damage. Water leaks can seep into both your floor and your subfloor, ultimately damaging your entire floor and even the rooms below your bathroom. If you see any signs of leaks in your toilet, replace it immediately.

Along with leaking, inefficiency is another major reason to replace your toilet. While it is not imperative that you replace it, continuing to use an older toilet will both cost you more money on your water bill and waste water, which is detrimental to the environment. Not sure how old your toilet is? There should be a stamp under the lid with a date on it.  

Benefits of WaterSense Toilets

If you are planning to replace your toilet, the most efficient models on the market are toilets that are labeled with WaterSense. WaterSense is the EPA designation for toilets and other fixtures and appliances that are water-efficient. Did you know that toilets account for almost 30% of our home water consumption? While older toilets can use up to 6 gallons for every flush, the current federal standard for toilets is 1.6 gallons per flush. Furthermore, many toilets can use 1.28 gallons per flush or less.

By purchasing a WaterSense toilet, you are ensuring maximum water efficiency for your toilet. This will decrease your overall water usage by 20-60%, and it will also bring you a potential savings of over $110 each year and $2,200 for the total life of your WaterSense toilet. There are many different types of toilets that fit the WaterSense bill, including gravity flush, pressure-assist, vacuum assist, dual-flush, and washdown.

Choose Albuquerque Plumbing, Heating & Cooling

If you are experiencing problems with a toilet in your home, Albuquerque Plumbing, Heating & Cooling is here to help. We can advise you on the best type of toilet to choose for your home as well as discuss the benefits of WaterSense toilets. For toilet repair, replacement, and installation, contact Albuquerque Plumbing, Heating & Cooling today.