Have you ever had that unpleasant feeling of sitting on a particular toilet seat and realizing that it needs to be replaced…like ASAP? Or noticing that it sounds different and struggles to flush and realizing you’ll need to replace the parts inside the tank of your toilet? But what about replacing the whole commode? When should that be done?
While repairs can help with quick or minor fixes, there are some issues that require a new unit altogether. Today, we’re sharing when to replace a toilet, and how to get in touch with a plumbing company in Columbiana, AL that can help…hint, it’s Professor Plumb! So, what telltale signs should you look for?
The Tank is Cracked
A sign of a cracked toilet tank can be water pooling around the base of your toilet. If you’ve noticed pooling water, inspect your toilet from both the inside and the outside to see if this is the case. If you do see a crack, that’s not an automatic sign that you have to replace your toilet. Depending on the location, it may be repairable so if you find a crack, contact us!
However, if your crack is located lower than your tank’s water line, a full toilet replacement is usually your most economical and functional route.
It’s Over 26 Years Old
The Energy Policy Act of 1992 mandated that toilets installed after 1994 must have a flush volume of 1.6 gallons per flush, rather than the almost 5 gallons per flush previously. If your toilet is 26 years old or older, there’s a high chance that it’s running at an inefficient pace and wasting a lot of water. While it might still technically work fine, you’re not enjoying the energy and cost savings you could receive with a newer model. If you have multiple toilets in your house that are over 26 years old and you choose to replace all of them, you may even be able to see a difference on your water bill.
Water Runs All the Time
It’s normal to hear water running for a short period of time after you flush. But what about if it never stops running? Not only does this plumbing problem use up a ton of water, but it also could indicate a much bigger issue. The constant running could simply be caused by a leaky flapper valve, which Professor Plumb can fix without you having to replace the entire thing. Other times, non-stop running is a sign that your tank’s fill valve is broken, which may require a replacement. Professor Plumb, your trusted plumbing company in Columbiana, AL can inspect the issue and advise you on the best next steps.
Requires Constant Repairs
Buying new instead of constantly pouring time and money into what you currently have is a concept that can be applied to many appliances and tools in our lives, including our toilets. If you’re always researching ways to fix your plumbing issues or make your toilet run more smoothly, it might be time to invest in a new one altogether. If you feel like you’ve somehow changed careers and become a plumber, it’s time to replace your toilet. Your toilet should be a part of your house that you can use comfortably without thinking twice. If you’re dedicating your weekends to at-home DIY repairs, you’ll save time, money and sanity by going ahead and replacing it (or them).
Let Us Help
Sometimes, it can be difficult to know if the plumbing issue you’re facing is minor or massive. Before you jump to conclusions and buy a new toilet, call us to take a look! We have a skilled eye for this sort of thing, and won’t steer you wrong if all you’re needing is a repair. If it’s clear that you need a new unit (or multiple units), we can make the replacement for you. If you already know you need a new toilet, but aren’t able to replace it yourself, please let us know because that’s one of the services we provide.
We’ll help you understand when to replace a toilet, and when a repair can make all the difference! Contact us today with any of your toilet or plumbing needs!