Deep down, you probably already know whether you need a toilet replacement. But we’re going to provide you with a little expert insight, just so you can be sure. So, put anything edible to one side, please, and learn all about why it’s high time you treated yourself to a lovely new toilet.

Can a Toilet Go Bad?

Absolutely. Regular cleaning and routine care will go a long way to extending the life of your toilet. But there comes a time in every toilet’s life when it’s simply had enough. After years of use, the mechanical parts of your toilet will start to wear out. And the harder your water is, the sooner that time will come.

You could find that the rubber flappers crack and start to leak or metal components like the pull chain start to give up. Even mineral deposits reduce water flow through the rim holes under the lip of your toilet bowl after a while. But whatever the issue, if your toilet is developing problems and it’s 10-15 years old, then it’s time to get a replacement because you cannot set it like your honeywell thermostat.

When Should You Replace Your Toilet?

Here are a few telltale signs that it’s time for a toilet replacement.

Frequent clogs

Most toilet clogs can be fairly easy to resolve with an auger or a power plunger. However, if your toilet is frequently clogging, you probably have a more serious problem. It could be an issue with the inner plumbing system, or your flush may no longer be powerful enough. Whatever the cause, if you’re experiencing clogs more than once a month, then it’s time to replace your toilet.

Cracks

Your toilet’s inner plumbing might still work well, but if you have a crack in the porcelain, then you have a serious problem. Cracks can lead to leaks of wastewater, damage your flooring, and promote the growth of mold and mildew. Cracks can develop in the bowl or the tank of your toilet, and if you see any sign of a water leak, you should get a replacement immediately.

Cosmetic damage

If you’re embarrassed to invite guests over due to the sheer state of your toilet, then that’s a sure sign that you need a new one. The surface of your toilet can become scratched due to brushing and scrubbing over many years. Once that surface damage occurs, it becomes more difficult to get your toilet sparkling clean and the only solution is to buy a new one.

A weak flush

If you find that you consistently need to flush multiple times to get things moving and you’re sure there’s no clog, you may have a problem. The likelihood is that the parts in the tank are worn and do not open or close completely. If you have a newer toilet, then it’s worth looking at the steps you can take to improve the strength of the flush. If it’s getting old, then it’s time for a toilet replacement.

Your toilet’s old and your water bills are high

Over time, investing in a new, water-efficient toilet could help you make a saving. Some newer toilets have a low flush or dual-flush feature that allows you to partially flush liquid waste and fully flush solid waste. That makes it better for the environment and your budget.

How Often Should You Replace Your Toilet?

Unless it cracks, the porcelain part of your toilet has an almost unlimited lifespan. The components inside the tank can require repair and eventually make a toilet replacement the most cost-effective measure.

The average lifespan of a toilet is around 10-15 years. However, if you’re lucky, your toilet could last for up to 25 years before you have to replace it.

How Much Does a Toilet Replacement Cost?

As a rough estimate, you should expect to pay around $300 to buy and fit a basic toilet, with the supply and installation costing around $150 each. For this type of replacement, you can expect to pay anywhere between $350 and $800. This depends on the type of installation, the difficulty of the job, and the condition of your plumbing.

Can You Replace Your Own Toilet?

If you want to install an identical toilet in the same position as the old one, this is potentially a job that you can do yourself. But you ought to have DIY experience first which should be more than just ordering food online using credits. All you need to do is hook up the water supply and waste pipe, which should be relatively quick and simple. However, if you want to change the position of your toilet or fit a different type of toilet or tank, that’s a job for the toilet installation experts.

Is It Worth Replacing a Toilet?

If you recognize the telltale signs that your toilet is on its way out, then it’s not something that you should put off. Eventually, there’ll come a point where the cost and inconvenience of replacing parts such as fill valves, flappers, and supply lines will surpass the cost of a replacement. If the porcelain of your toilet is cracked, you also run the risk of water damage that could cost far more than a toilet replacement.

There’s also your wallet and the environment to consider. Modern toilets such as low flush and dual-flush models use far less water than older toilets while still providing plenty of flushing power. That will save you money on your water bill and reduce your environmental impact.

It’s Time to Get Flushing

If your toilet is on its way out or you have a toilet that’s more than ten years old, it’s time to think about a replacement. A brand new toilet will protect your home from water damage and will not be a major source of embarrassment when the neighbors pop around.

Summary

A toilet will typically last an average of 10-15 years. After that point, you may recognize the telltale signs that you need a replacement. That includes a weak flush, cracked porcelain, and frequent clogs. Replacing a basic toilet with a like-for-like system in the same position will typically cost $300 for the supply and fitting. It’ll raise between $350 and $800 for different toilet types. This is only a job you should attempt yourself if you have prior DIY experience and want to install an identical toilet in the same position as the old one.