How Long is the Lifespan of a Toilet?
Do you know the lifespan of your toilet? While not all toilets are made with the same quality or technology, they all need to be taken care of and replaced at the end of their life.
Even high-efficiency toilets need to be replaced at some point. But how do you know when you’re at the end of your toilet lifespan? Read on to find out! In this article, we will give you the signs to look for that indicate that your toilet has reached the end of its life.
Here at Advantage Plumbing & Sewer Co, we have years of experience providing Elgin toilet services. Our team of professionals keeps your plumbing running efficiently until the day that your toilet or plumbing needs replacing. Call our team at 847-268-3553 for all your plumbing needs.
What Is the Average Toilet Lifespan?
The average homeowner typically replaces their toilet every 10 to 15 years. However, when properly cared for, a toilet can last up to 50 years or longer.
Toilets usually show signs that they need a repair or replacement, but some reach the end of their lifespan with little or no physical signs. Some signs are obvious, while others are only recognizable by professionals. Factors like poor upkeep, hard water, and poor quality affect your toilet’s lifespan.
Signs Your Toilet Has Reached the End of Its Lifespan
Pay attention to the following signs that your toilet may need to be replaced.
A Change in Your Water Bill
When your toilet’s lifespan is reaching its end, you’ll likely notice some physical signs, but pay attention to your bill as well. When a toilet requires repair or replacement, it needs to work harder to do its job. This, in turn, forces it to use more water, which shows up on your water bill. A newer toilet or more modern toilet uses less water per flush and decreases your water bill because it is more efficient with water use.
Constant Clogging, Running, or Overflowing
If your toilet is constantly overflowing, call a professional plumber right away. Any leak or water where it shouldn’t be in your home can cause structural damage or mold growth. This will end up costing you much more than just a toilet repair or replacement.
A one-time overflow could mean many things and doesn’t necessarily point to needing a toilet replacement. But a toilet that is constantly overflowing is wasting water and potentially causing water damage to your home.
A constantly running toilet is loud, so you’ll be able to hear it. A toilet that runs is damaged. This damage could be on the inside part of the tank or elsewhere. But it does indicate that your toilet is at the end of its lifespan. If your toilet is always running, installing a new toilet saves you a lot of water.
A clogged toilet is most commonly due to clogged pipes. A professional toilet inspection helps you determine whether the issue is just a simple clog or if your hardware needs to be replaced. A new toilet installation fixes your clogging, running, and overflowing issues, so replacement may be the best option.
An Increase In Repair Needs
One very common and obvious sign that your toilet needs a repair or replacement is when it’s not flushing properly. This could be a sign of low water levels due to clogging in the pipes or outdated hardware.
Constantly repairing hardware or filling cracks in your toilet’s tank or the bowl usually indicates that it’s time for a new toilet. If you are repairing your toilet a lot or if you have your plumber on speed dial for frequent repairs, you could save yourself a lot of time and money by simply replacing your toilet fixture.
Cracking or Leaking
Cracks or leaks are bad signs from old toilets and usually indicate that your toilet has come to the end of its lifespan. They not only hurt your water bill, but they could also cause further damage to your home. While it’s important to remedy any leaks in your toilet, professional help isn’t necessarily required for every crack.
Any hardware store can supply you with what you need to fill a crack in your bowl or tank. Make sure that you’re properly sealing the crack to prevent any further cracking or damage to the floor around your toilet. If, however, you see a leak or crack on the bottom of the toilet bowl, you need a professional to repair or replace the toilet.
A good rule of thumb is to identify the source of the leak and try to seal it up as soon as possible. If you’re unable to seal the crack and it’s causing a lot of leaking, you will likely be better off replacing your toilet.
How Much Does Replacing a Toilet Cost?
On average, a new toilet installation ranges from $150 up to $800 depending on the home, pumping system, and your budget. Choose a local plumber who has experience replacing and repairing home plumbing systems and toilets. The cost of a toilet replacement will depend on multiple factors, including the following:
- The brand of toilet you select
- The amount of work and time required
- The condition of the existing plumbing
- Any unexpected costs
Plumbing Services by Advantage Plumbing & Sewer Co.
Now that you know what signs to look for and have some insight into a toilet’s lifespan, you’re ready to call on a professional when the time comes to replace or repair your toilet. At Advantage Plumbing, we offer cleaning, maintenance, and professional replacement services for your plumbing needs. Whether you require a simple toilet replacement or are conducting a full bathroom remodel, we can help!
Our team of professional technicians is trained to assess and identify your toilet lifespan or plumbing issues and give you the best option. We work with your budget and plumbing system to determine if a repair or replacement is needed. Call us at 847-268-3553 to schedule service or learn more about plumbing services by Advantage Plumbing & Sewer Co. today!
