Reasons to Replace a Toilet

In many cases, especially with older toilets, it might be more cost-effective and less troublesome to replace the toilet rather than spend on frequent repairs.

When considering home improvements, replacing an old or inefficient toilet can bring multiple benefits, from enhancing the bathroom's aesthetics to improving overall water efficiency. This guide outlines six compelling reasons why replacing a toilet can be a wise decision.

Leaks

One of the most urgent reasons for replacing a toilet is the presence of leaks. These can originate from either the toilet's tank or bowl and often go unnoticed for a significant time. Undetected leaks can cause extensive damage to bathroom flooring and subfloors, potentially leading to costly repairs. If the bathroom is located above ground level, leaks can also damage ceilings in rooms below. Additionally, water from leaks contributes to wastage, which can substantially increase water bills. In many cases, especially with older toilets, it might be more cost-effective and less troublesome to replace the toilet rather than spend on frequent repairs.

Water Efficiency

Older toilets are notorious for their high water usage. Models manufactured before 1980 can consume up to 7 gallons of water per flush. In contrast, modern toilets are designed under federal guidelines established in the 1990s, which mandate a maximum usage of 1.6 gallons per flush. This stark difference in water consumption can have a significant impact on household utility bills. Substituting an older toilet with a more efficient model saves money in the long run and supports environmental conservation. To check a toilet's age, simply lift the lid and look for a date stamp, which can usually be found inside the tank.

Appearance

The style and color of a toilet can affect the overall look and feel of a bathroom. Many older toilets feature colors like avocado green and coral pink, which were popular in decades past but might not align with contemporary design trends. Upgrading to a modern toilet can help achieve a more updated and cohesive appearance. Modern toilets are available in a variety of colors beyond the traditional white, including shades like bone, biscuit, and a range of designer colors, though it's worth noting that toilets in non-standard colors often come at a higher price.

Comfort

The physical comfort of using a toilet should not be overlooked. When shopping for a new toilet, it is important to consider factors such as the size and height of the seat. A toilet that is too high or too low can be uncomfortable, especially for children or individuals with mobility issues. Additionally, the shape of the toilet seat, whether elongated or round, can affect comfort. Selecting the right toilet involves considering the needs and preferences of all household members to ensure it accommodates everyone comfortably.

Broken or Uncommon Components

Over time, toilets wear, leading to broken components, such as the flush handle or internal flushing mechanisms. Sometimes, these parts can be difficult to replace, especially if they are model-specific or have been discontinued. Evaluating the cost of repairing these components against the cost of a new toilet can often lead to the decision that replacing the toilet is more economical and less of a hassle in the long term.

Flooring Replacement 

If a bathroom remodel includes replacing the flooring, it presents a good opportunity to consider updating the toilet. Typically, the toilet must be removed temporarily to install new flooring, which makes it convenient to replace it with a new model at the same time. Installing a new toilet during this process minimizes extra labor costs and ensures that the new flooring and toilet complement each other well.

It's important to ensure that any toilet replacement is handled by a qualified plumbing professional. Toilets are heavy and can be easily damaged during installation. Properly connecting a new toilet to existing plumbing prevents future leaks and ensures it operates efficiently. A licensed plumber will install the fixture correctly and per local building codes, providing peace of mind and adding value to the home.

If you need a licensed, bonded, insured plumber for your Phoenix area leak or your next plumbing project, call MNS Plumbing today at 602-362-4524.