Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Toilet

Are you trying to decide whether it’s time to can your can? If you’ve noticed some issues with your toilet but it’s still operational, it can be a challenge to decide whether you need a new one. Here are the things to look out for in relation to your toilet that means it’s time for a toilet replacement. 

When too many un-flushable objects end up in the toilet bowl it is pretty easy to diagnose why a toilet is clogging. However, if your toilet is always clogging even with a minimal amount of waste and toilet paper, there could be a number of causes. For starters, there could be buildup in the S-trap underneath the toilet, or a persistent clog further down the line in your main sewer lines. There could also be mineral buildup, and it is possible the flushing mechanism in your toilet has deteriorated (this is especially true for low-flush toilets). 

If you find yourself plunging the toilet to clear a clog once a day or more, a professional plumber will be able to diagnose whether your toilet is in need of replacement. 

While the primary function of a toilet is to handle human waste, a toilet is also a chair of sorts. If your toilet has developed cracks in the porcelain, the structural integrity will be compromised and it could struggle to support the body weight of anyone sitting on it. Cracks can also mean toilet leaks and puddles of water around the toilet—which is an issue that should be resolved immediately! Excess moisture in your home can lead to other issues like mold growth, and depending on where the toilet leak is located, it could be leaking unsanitary water onto your floors. 

Is your toilet too old? Has it become wobbly due to loose screws or has the caulking at the base peeled off? An aged or tippy toilet is likely not far from developing any of the issues listed here. Plan to replace your toilet in the near future to avoid a regretful and disastrous plumbing failure!

Even if you aren’t seeing any leaks on the outside of your toilet, there could be hidden leaks causing your water usage to rise. If you have noticed that your water bills have mysteriously increased over the past few months, and your water usage seems to be the same, it could be a sneaky-leaky toilet that needs replacing. 

A leak detection service or camera inspection with the Calfo plumbing pros will uncover any plumbing issues that could be causing your increased water usage and diagnose if your toilet is the culprit. 

One of the most obvious signs that your toilet needs replacing is if you constantly hear water running long after the flush has completed. This issue is often caused by internal parts in the toilet tank, such as a faulty flapper valve or a broken fill valve. While these components can sometimes be replaced, if the problem persists or you’ve already attempted multiple repairs, it might be more cost-effective to replace the entire toilet. A new toilet will not only eliminate that annoying running water sound but also help conserve water, lowering your utility bills.

It is important to look at any repairs in your home and consider how sustainable it is, in the long run, to continue with repairs versus investing in an update. If you have had frequent repairs, more than twice in a year, and those repairs continue to get more expensive, a toilet replacement will save you money and a headache down the line. 

Dealing with frequent overflows can be a messy and frustrating experience. If your toilet overflows more than once a month without a clear cause, it could be an indication of larger plumbing issues. While a single instance might be due to a clog, recurrent overflow problems could suggest the need for a new toilet installation. Toilet clogs are common as a toilet ages, as their flushing power tends to weaken over time, especially if they’re low-flow models. For homes prone to clogs and overflows, upgrading to a modern toilet with stronger flushing capabilities can reduce the risk of future plumbing disasters and water damage.

If it’s taking more than one flush to clear waste, your toilet’s efficiency has likely diminished. Over time, the average toilet can lose their flushing power due to mineral deposits, wear and tear on internal mechanisms, or an overall outdated design. This means potentially wasting gallons of water and increased utility costs. Modern toilets are designed with water-saving features and powerful flushing systems that clear the bowl in a single flush, making replacement an attractive option if you’re experiencing this issue.

Sometimes, the need for a toilet replacement isn’t just about functionality—it’s about comfort and aesthetics. If your current toilet is too low, too high, or just doesn’t fit with your bathroom’s updated design, it’s time to upgrade. Many older toilets were designed lower to the ground, which may not be ideal for everyone. Newer models offer more comfortable heights, along with designs that complement modern bathrooms. Plus, updating to a sleek, energy-efficient model can increase the resale value of your home.

If you notice a persistent sewage smell around your toilet despite thorough cleaning, it could signal a more significant problem. Leaks or cracks in the porcelain can cause lingering odors, while a failing wax ring at the base can allow sewage gases to escape into your home. These are not only unpleasant but can also pose health hazards. Persistent smells are often a strong sign that your toilet needs to be replaced rather than repaired.