10 Signs Your Toilet Is Too Old
The toilet is one of the most used plumbing fixtures in any household. If it is still working correctly, many homeowners don't pay much attention to it. In fact, toilet talks are often not always welcomed, especially during dinner. While this is the case, you also need to keep in mind that however well-maintained your option is, age will finally catch up to it. According to Simpson Plumbing, the average life of a regular toilet is between 15 to 30 years.
Of course, how long your toilet will last will depend on how often you use and maintain it. Since these fixtures don't have an expiry date, it is usually relatively difficult to tell whether your toilet is old and needs a replacement. The good news, however, is that in most cases, your toilet will probably let you know when it is time to let it go. Take a look at some common signs that your toilet is too old and will need a replacement soon.
1. Regular clogging
There is no doubt that dealing with a clogged toilet is no fun. While most toilets occasionally clog, if you have to plunge yours every so often, that might indicate that your old toilet needs to go.
2. Higher water bill
Older, broken, and less efficient toilets will use more water to get the job done compared to their newer counterparts. So if you recently have an unusually high water bill, have your old toilet checked by a plumber; you may need to install a new one to save on water bills.
3. Constant repairs
If you call a plumber too often, take it as a sign that you need to find a suitable replacement for your old toilet. Other than costing you a lot of money in the long run, recurring toilet problems is also detrimental to your home.
4. Cracks on the tank or bowl
Older toilets eventually develop cracks that can easily result in a leak. While noticing a crack in the bowl is not easy, the first sign should be a puddle of water at the toilet's base. Whether you need to repair or replace your toilet depends entirely on the crack's position.
5. Continuous flush
It is usual for the water to run for a few minutes right after flushing; however, if the flush never ends, there is a problem. In such scenarios, the flapper valve is not sealing. It is possible to fix this issue; however, consider changing your toilet if it reoccurs.
6. No flush toilet
A no-flush toilet doesn't exist! So if you cannot flush your toilet despite numerous attempts, even with the help of a plunger, you have serious problems on your hands. Sometimes the toilet stops working, and you need to call a plumber if this is the case.
7. Toilet leaks
Another common telltale sign of an old toilet is the occurrence of random leaks. The unfortunate bit about a leaking toilet is that it is relatively hard to detect and can go on for months. If the toilet is on the floor above, you will notice water damage on the ceiling below.
8. If it's almost the same age as you
As mentioned earlier, toilets don't last forever; one indication that yours is old enough is its age. Remember, modern toilets are more efficient and conserve water better — schedule a replacement to save both water and money.
9. A wobbly toilet
An unstable and wobbly toilet might indicate loose parts that occur gradually over the years. However, if tightening a few screws doesn't solve the problem, the floor underneath may be compromised because of water damage. Your old fixture might be slowly leaking into the floor beneath.
10. Bowl shape
Dated toilet designs feature a rounded toilet bowl that is uncomfortable and relatively difficult to clean. Replacing it with the modern elongated design will increase your comfort and make cleaning a breeze.