Toilets are one of the sturdier plumbing fixtures you can own, averaging a lifespan of fifty years. However, that doesn’t mean problems can arrive before then that’ll have you looking for a replacement. There are some issues your toilet may experience that don’t seem severe. However, knowing about these issues is important so you can get a toilet replacement before they cause major problems. Being able to tell when you need a new toilet can save you a headache and a lot of money in the long run.
Here are six reasons you might have to order a toilet replacement:
Old age
As we mentioned, well-kept toilets can reach the ripe old age of fifty. However, if yours is about thirty years old, you might want to retire it early. In the 1990s, the U.S. government, in response to concerns over water usage, mandated that all toilets use a new ‘low flow’ technology. This technology means that newer toilets use about half as much water as older ones. If you’re environmentally conscious, you should switch to a newer toilet, which will also save you money on water bills.
Frequent repairs
All appliances, toilets included, usually get more repairs when they’re older. As they age, toilets become more unreliable and need more repairs, and those repairs can wind up costing more than a new toilet. If you have an older model, ask us about the possibility of a replacement next time we come over to fix it.
Hard water build-ups
The minerals in hard water can often be a threat to your toilet and other plumbing. Dissolved calcium and magnesium can build up in your toilet’s inlet holes and the siphon tube, preventing water from flowing effectively. Depending on the severity of the blockage, you might be able to chip away at it, but you might simply have to buy a new toilet. If hard water is a problem in your home, consider picking up a water softener.
Wobbling
A wobbly toilet is caused by two things, one of which is a serious problem. If you’re lucky, the toilet simply has screws that can easily be tightened. However, you may be dealing with damaged or rotting flooring. Either way, getting a plumber’s help is your best course of action.
Scratches in the porcelain
As older toilets get scrubbing, the porcelain tends to get covered in scratches. Having these scratches on your toilet does more than making it look unattractive. These scratches make the toilet’s surface rough and uneven, making it harder to clean. Getting a new toilet may be the best idea if you’re cleaning yours too much.
Water inefficiency
If you own an older toilet, buying a new one can be a great way to save on your water bills. Before the proliferation of low flow toilets, toilets generally used three to five gallons per flush. Today, toilets generally use around two gallons. Replacing your old toilet with a newer, more efficient one, can save you money in the long run.
What makes America’s Plumbing Co. one of the area’s best plumbing companies?
Since 1999, we’ve been providing high-quality plumbing at reasonable rates. Through hard work coupled with a combination of outstanding leadership, experienced plumbers, and a clear vision for the future, America’s Plumbing Co. has been able to provide clients with the top-quality affordable plumbing at a price you can afford. Drains, toilets, faucets, garbage disposals, sinks, and water heaters are just a few of our areas of expertise. Call America’s Plumbing Co. today to learn more about our selection of toilets!
