From stinky clogs, unexpected leaks, overflowing bowls, and other headache-inducing problems, the last thing you want to deal with is an ill-functioning toilet. Even though we’re plumbers, we get it. A bathroom that doesn’t work can be quite an inconvenience and even more so—annoying. I mean, c’mon, we live in the revolutionary age of technology and indoor plumbing!
Luckily, you can avoid toilet conundrums by learning some of the top warning signs it’s time to replace your toilet. That way, your porcelain throne is never out of commission, especially when you need it most! Keep on reading to learn more about the average toilet lifespan and the top five problems that may mean it’s time to replace your toilet from the experts at All Star Plumbing.
What Is the Average Lifespan of a Toilet?
Toilets can last up to 50 years! While that sounds like a long time, many toilets only offer 10 to 15 years of prime use but may offer more depending on the level of upkeep and maintenance. You can check inside the tank, towards the top, for a date and manufacturer information if you're unsure when your toilet was installed.
Additionally, the quality of the toilet may impact its lifespan. As the saying goes, “You get what you pay for,” this sure rings true for your toilet. While you won’t have to drop hundreds of dollars on a latrine, you should invest in a high-quality toilet that is up to the challenge.
What Are the Signs You Need a Toilet Replacement?
Now that you’ve got a good idea of the lifespan of your favorite plumbing appliance, let’s take a look at some of the red flags to watch out for. And yes, these are just toilet red flags. Sadly, we’re only experts in plumbing—not relationships.
Age
Unlike your grandma, toilets don’t always age gracefully. As we mentioned above, it’s important to be aware of how old your toilet is so when it reaches the end of its expected lifespan, you’re already prepared to buy a replacement. And while a replacement may seem like an investment, it can actually save you big bucks in the long run. If you replace your toilet before it leaks or cracks, you can avoid future damage to your home’s pipes, floors, and other inner workings.
Constant Clogs
While using your plunger after a much-need bathroom break isn’t unusual, it may be time for a replacement if you constantly have to unclog your toilet. If this is you, we recommend calling your trusted local plumbing company, like All Star Plumbing. An experienced professional can inspect your toilet, examine the pipes, and let you know if you require a new and shiny pot. And, if your kid decided to have a field day in the bathroom and shove their toys down the toilet, creating a hard-to-reach clog, we can help with that too.
Tank Cracks
Tank cracks are one of the most obvious (and easily spotted) signs it’s time for a toilet replacement. If you notice any splits, fissures, or chinks in the lower to the bottom portion of your toilet, we advise calling a plumber as soon as you can. These cracks can quickly turn into uncontrollable leaks, which can be quite a pain to deal with. Big or small, call All Star Plumbing for any noticeable damages at (518) 864-1224.
Leaks
Like spotting a needle in a haystack, leaks aren’t always obvious, making them harder to spot. However, your water bill can be an easy indicator that something’s not right. If your significant other hasn’t been taking annoyingly long showers, but your water bill is still high, you may have a toilet leak. When in doubt, we recommend contacting a plumber to ensure your plumbing is in tip-top shape.
Frequent Calls
At All Star Plumbing, we like to say we’re a judgment-free zone. Whenever you have a plumbing problem, don’t hesitate to call us. But, if you’re dialing us weekly for various toilet issues, we recommend it’s time to replace your toilet. While we’re always happy to help, replacing your toilet is more cost-effective than spending money trying to repair it. The next time we visit (or even if you’re a first-time customer), we’ll always let you know if we think a replacement is your best option.
What Should You Do If You Need a Toilet Replacement?
We hope that with these tips, you can stay busy with life's fun, enjoyable activities rather than dealing with frustrating toilet problems. But, even with perfect preparation, sometimes, life happens. If you experience a plumbing catastrophe, keep calm and rest easy, knowing All Star Plumbing offers 24/7 emergency plumbing service. Whether it’s an overflowing toilet or drainage backup, we’re a team of experts you can trust! For more information about toilet replacements or other plumbing Qs, get in touch with us today!
Do You Need a Toliet Replacement? Call the Plumbing Pros!
Proudly serving Ballston, NY & the surrounding areas, All Star Plumbing is here to repair and replace your toilet disasters. From toilet cracks to leaks and more, we’re proud to get the job done right—the first time. Call us at (518) 864-1224 or contact us online to schedule an appointment with one of our friendly, certified professionals.
