The plumbing system in your home is one of its most crucial components, yet it is often overlooked by most homeowners. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure it functions properly. When the plumbing system malfunctions, ignoring the issue can lead to expensive repairs and stressful situations.
If you’re wondering when to hire a plumber to repair or replace your toilet, you’ve come to the right place. For those living in Logan and Cache Valley, Utah, Apex Plumbing offers a wide range of plumbing services, including toilet repair. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the signs that indicate your toilet needs repair or replacement. Keep reading to learn more.
If you’re not an expert in plumbing, it’s best to hire a professional to handle toilet repair. Here are the signs to watch for that indicate your toilet may need repair or replacement:
Cracks in the Tank
If you notice puddles beneath your toilet, this could signal cracks in the tank. Even if the cracks aren’t immediately visible, you should check for hairline cracks, which are often harder to spot.
Although the toilet may still function and flush normally, it will need repair. Depending on the location of the cracks, you may need to replace the toilet entirely. To determine whether a cracked toilet can be repaired or needs replacement, it’s essential to consult a professional plumber.
Age of the Toilet
If you’ve recently purchased an older home and plan to remodel it, don’t forget to check the toilets. Over time, toilets wear down due to regular use. While toilets aren’t designed to last forever, newer models are more efficient and can help reduce water usage, ultimately saving you money. Even if your old toilet is still functional, installing a new one can improve efficiency.
Modern plumbing systems have improved due to technological advancements. For example, dual flush toilets help conserve water by offering a partial flush for liquid waste and a full flush for solid waste. This feature is a smart way to reduce water usage and lower your monthly utility bills.
Unstable Toilet
If your toilet moves or wobbles when you sit on it, it’s time to hire a toilet repair expert. They can assess the situation and determine whether a repair or replacement is necessary. Don’t sacrifice comfort, especially with something you use every day. A wobbly toilet could indicate an issue with the flooring, which should also be inspected. If that’s the case, you may need to replace or repair the flooring to ensure stability.
Constant Repairs
If you’ve been calling your plumber repeatedly to fix the same toilet, it might be time to consider replacing it. Frequent repairs can add up quickly, costing you more than installing a new one. Investing in a replacement will save you money, time, and effort in the long run. You’ll avoid the frustration of constant breakdowns and frequent trips to the hardware store for parts.
Leaking Toilet
Toilet leaks are often hard to detect and can continue unnoticed for months, leading to increased water bills. A sudden spike in your water bill, without a change in usage, is a common sign of a hidden leak. Check for visible water damage, especially if your toilet is located on an upper floor. Signs of a leak may include water stains or mold growth in the ceiling below.
Mold can pose health risks, so it’s important to address any leaks promptly. If you suspect a leak, call a plumber immediately. They’ll assess the situation, locate the source of the leak, and perform the necessary repairs to prevent further damage.
Toilet Flushing Issues
If your toilet continuously runs after flushing, it’s time for a repair or replacement. A running toilet wastes water, which will become evident on your water bill. This issue is often caused by a faulty flapper valve that no longer seals properly. Even if you adjust it back into place, it’s usually just a temporary fix.
While a damaged flapper itself may not justify replacing your toilet, a plumber can assess the problem and determine if there are larger underlying issues. It’s important to hire a reliable plumber who can quickly identify the cause and provide a lasting solution.
Recurring Clogs
If your toilet frequently clogs, it may be time to consider installing a new one. Older toilets often require multiple flushes to clear waste, and they’re more prone to clogging.
However, before replacing your toilet, it’s crucial to check if the clogging is due to pipe issues. A professional plumber can help assess whether the problem lies in the toilet itself or in the plumbing, allowing you to make an informed decision about repairs or replacement.
Toilet Won’t Flush
Sometimes a toilet stops flushing altogether, no matter how much you adjust the handle or use a plunger. If you’ve tried everything to get your toilet to flush with no success, it’s time to call a plumber to diagnose and fix the problem.
Choosing the Right Toilet for Your Home
If you’ve decided that it’s time to replace your old toilet, it’s essential to choose the right model for your needs. With advancements in plumbing technology, there are various options available that can make your bathroom more efficient and comfortable. Here are some features to consider when selecting a new toilet.
- Water Efficiency Modern toilets are designed to conserve water while still providing a strong flush. Look for toilets with the WaterSense label, which meet EPA standards for water efficiency. Dual-flush toilets are a popular option, allowing you to use less water for liquid waste and more for solid waste, reducing water usage over time.
- Comfort and Height Standard toilets have a seat height of about 15 inches, but many newer models come in “comfort height,” which is around 17-19 inches. Taller toilets can be easier to use, especially for elderly individuals or those with mobility issues.
- One-Piece vs. Two-Piece Toilets Toilets come in both one-piece and two-piece models. One-piece toilets are sleeker and easier to clean since there’s no seam between the tank and the bowl. Two-piece toilets are generally more affordable and easier to transport, though they may require more cleaning.
- Flushing Technology. There are several flushing mechanisms available, from gravity-fed systems to pressure-assisted flushing. Pressure-assisted toilets provide a more powerful flush, making them great for homes with frequent clogging issues.
Choosing the right toilet ensures comfort, efficiency, and durability, making it a worthwhile investment for your home.
If your toilet is no longer functioning properly, Apex Plumbing can help. Based in the Logan and Cache Valley areas of Utah, we are a family-owned business led by Howard Kunz, a second-generation plumber who started working alongside his father at the age of five. We offer services including Drain Services, Toilet Repair, Water Heaters, and Faucet Repair. For more information, call us at 435-213-7146 or email us at apexplumbingutah@gmail.com. Choose Apex Plumbing for your toilet repair or replacement needs. Don’t wait—contact us today!