Toilets can last a long time, but they don’t last forever. There are numerous indicators of a faulty toilet. Knowing what to look for will help you avoid spending a fortune on repairs caused by water damage.
Here are some signs that your toilet should be replaced by a professional plumber.
1. The toilet is old
There are varying opinions on how long a toilet should last. Some would say up to 50 years or even more. While the fixture might last a long time, we have to keep in mind that the inner workings become inefficient as they become older. They may malfunction which could lead to property damage or higher water bills from wasting water. A general rule of thumb is to replace a toilet every 25 years, though this may vary depending on usage.
2. Cracks in the toilet
Notice some cracks in your toilet? It’s a sure sign that it may be time for a replacement. You may not see any visible cracks, but if you notice any leaks or pooling of water at the base of the toilet, this often indicates that there may be a crack in the bowl or tank, and this should be addressed immediately.
While you can patch up existing cracks, a replacement could be the best course of action. Why? Because once your toilet cracked, it is likely going to happen again. Toilet cracks can cause serious damage to your flooring, and lead to mold, mildew, water waste, and more expensive repairs.
3. Frequent repairs
Have you been requiring frequent repairs to your toilet? Frequent repairs mean that your toilet is not working properly. If you find yourself calling your plumber for toilet repairs more frequently than normal, it may be time for a replacement. This may cost more but you can end up saving money from repairs and potential damage caused by the faulty toilet in the long term.
4. Constant Clogging
Do you need to use the plunger after every bathroom break? Older toilets are manufactured with less flushing power, which can result in more clogs or malfunctions in their flushing mechanism. A constantly clogged toilet could be a sign that it’s time for it to go.
5. Mineral buildup
Minerals can quickly build up in your toilet bowl. These can cause unsightly stains that are difficult to remove. While there are many products on the market today designed specifically to get rid of stains that might accumulate in your toilet bowl, mineral buildup can settle in the inlet holes and siphon tank, which can disrupt the water flow. Over time, the buildup can lead to clogging and low water efficiency. Depending on the level of buildups, a plumber may be able to clear it out or you may need to replace your toilet.
6. Wobbling toilet
Does your toilet wobble or rock? If your toilet seat wobbles but there’s no leak, it could just be a result of a loose-fitting flange. This can be easily fixed by tightening flange bolts or shimming the toilet base. But if the issue continues, it may be time to let it go.
7. Inefficient toilet
Toilets manufactured before the 1990s use far more water than today’s models. If you have an older toilet, replacing it with a newer, more efficient model will benefit you both environmentally and financially.
Services in Perth
If you find yourself in need of plumbing services in Perth, you can trust World of Plumbing and Gas to provide you with prompt and expert service. We provide toilet repairs, replacement, and new toilet installation, call us on 0488 296 724.
