When your toilet is working fine, it's easy to ignore this household workhorse. But how do you know when it's having issues that can be ignored versus those that are going to require some changes? Here is some information to help you decide when it's time to repair versus time to replace your toilet.
Replacement Time: 5 Signs the Toilet Has to Go
- It's really old. Sure, that may sound like a generalization, but older toilets use much more water than newer models. Older models would toss through five gallons of water while the low-flush side of a dual-flush toilet sips 0.8 gallons per flush. They're also louder and take longer to fill than modern models. Consider upgrading to a dual-flush system to lower your monthly water bill and you'll have it paid for in no time.
- There are cracks in the bowl or the tank. Even small cracks will leak some water, and even if the leakage isn't that bad, it's a sign that there are weak spots in the structure. It's far better to replace now than when it finishes falling apart on you - or under you.
- There are a lot of mineral deposits. If you have hard water, you're going to end up with mineral deposits. Because the inlet holes around the bowl are fairly small, they can clog, requiring multiple flushes to get the same amount of matter down the drain.
- It is frequently clogging. When low-water toilets first came out, the designs that were commonly used would require multiple flushes to clear the bowl and would clog frequently. Instead of having to plunge it frequently, change it out for a newer low-flush system that saves water and moves waste down the pipeline.
- It needs frequent or costly repairs. Sure, you could take the time to completely disassemble the toilet and replace all the components, but between your time and the cost of parts, is it really worth it? Check the price on newer toilets to see where your cost difference will fall.
By monitoring your toilet for these signs, you can determine when it's the best time to replace your toilet. If you're ready to make a replacement or need a Pittsburgh plumbing service to help with your repairs or renovation needs, please contact Stahl Plumbing, Heating & Air Conditioning. We're the plumbers Pittsburgh homeowners contact when they need high-quality service, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.