Our toilets are one of the most important plumbing fixtures in our home. So, when they don’t run as they should it can cause serious problems for everyone in your household.

The tricky part is knowing what’s relatively normal and what’s not and whether the issues can be fixed with a little work or if the whole thing needs to be updated. To make things a little clearer, we’ve created a guide for when to get toilet repairs or replacements, so you know exactly how to react when issues arise.

Common Signs Your Toilet May Need Repair or Replacement

Toilets only have one real function in our house, but it’s an essential one. With frequent use, components within our toilets can wear out and cause issues. Many minor issues can be fixed with simple repairs or replacement parts while others will be beyond repair.

Some of the most common signs that you need toilet repairs or replacement include:

  • Constant running water
  • Frequent clogs
  • Cracks or damage to the cistern, bowl or base
  • Persistent unpleasant odours
  • Unstable or unsecured base or seat
  • Poor flush performance

Toilet Repairs vs Replacement

The decision to repair or replace your toilet will depend on a few different factors, which we will explore below. The choice will ultimately be up to you, based on the extent of the issues and your budget.

Extent of Damage or Issues

As we briefly mentioned earlier, some toilet issues can be resolved with simple repairs. It is always best to consider all of your options and consult with an experienced plumber before jumping straight to replacement.

For minor issues, such as running water or poor flush performance you may be able to fix them by simply replacing the flapper valve or float. Similarly, if the toilet seat or base is unstable, you can generally tighten the connections to secure it. 

However, if these simple fixes don’t work you may need to consider replacing the toilet. Also, if your toilet bowl is cracked it needs to be replaced to ensure proper safety and function.

Other issues, including frequent clogs or unpleasant odours, could potentially be caused by blockages in the pipes rather than in the toilet itself. You will need to get a plumber to do a complete inspection to determine the exact cause of the issue, as with pipe repairs or clearing you may restore proper functioning of your toilet.

Cost Considerations

Another factor to consider when your toilet is having issues is your budget. If your toilet is only having minor issues it will generally be more cost-effective to get repairs or replace single components rather than the whole system.

However, if your toilet is significantly damaged, old or has been having frequent issues it may be better to replace it. Frequent repairs or replacement parts for older toilets can be expensive or difficult to source, making it more cost-effective to replace instead.

You will need to weigh up the costs of both options for your toilet before making a decision. You can also consult with your local plumber for expert recommendations.

Age of the Toilet

If your toilet is aged and is suffering from significant wear and tear, it’s likely time for an upgrade. Like anything in life, as they age toilets can wear out and malfunction more frequently and become more difficult to repair.

Many toilets will have a lifespan of approximately 10 to 15 years. If your toilet is outside of this age bracket and is having issues, it’s time to start considering newer options.

Water Efficiency

Older toilets tend to use more water per flush as they don’t have the built-in water-efficiency components that the modern models do. This can cost you more on your water bills each month.

Replacing your toilet with a newer, more water-efficient model will save you more in the long term. So, if your toilet is more than 10 to 15 years old or is experiencing issues, it could be a clear sign that it’s time for an upgrade.

Ensure Bathroom Efficiency with a High Functioning Toilet

Knowing the warning signs of an ageing or worn-out toilet can help you keep your bathroom functioning smoothly. When you start to notice the signs or anything abnormal about your toilet it’s best to start considering your options for repair or replacement.

We use our toilets multiple times a day, after all, so they need to work!

If you think it’s time to upgrade your toilet, you can explore our extensive range of high-quality toilets at Everhard Industries.