Let’s face it; no one really enjoys talking about toilets. But the fact of the matter is, they’re an important part of our homes and an essential part of our daily lives. As such, it’s important to know when it’s time for a new one. Here are a few signs that it might be time to start shopping for a new toilet.
How Long Do Toilets Last?
The average lifespan of a toilet is around 10-15 years. Of course, this is just an average, and there are always exceptions. If you have a particularly high-quality toilet, it could last much longer. Conversely, if you have a lower-quality toilet, it might only last for 5-10 years.
What Issues Signal That You Might Need a New Toilet?
Several issues could crop up that would indicate it’s time for a new toilet. Here are some of the most common ones:
- Constantly Clogged: If your toilet is constantly getting clogged, even after you’ve tried using different drain cleaners and plungers, it might be time for a new one. This usually indicates a larger problem that can’t be fixed with a plunger or drain cleaner.
- Leaking: If your toilet leaks from the base or the tank, you likely need a new one. These types of leaks can cause major water damage and should be addressed as soon as possible.
- Cracks: If there are cracks in your toilet bowl or tank, this could result in leaks. As such, if you notice any cracks, it’s best to err on the side of caution and get a new toilet.
- Uneven Bowl: If your toilet bowl rocks back and forth whenever you sit on it or flush it, that means the ground underneath isn’t even. This could lead to bigger issues down the road, so it’s best to get a new toilet now rather than wait until things get worse.
- Rusted Bolts: Rusted bolts are another sign that water damage has occurred. If you notice any rust around the base of your toilet or on any of the bolts, it’s best to replace your toilet as soon as possible to prevent further damage.
Why Should You Get a New Toilet?
Aside from the issues listed above, there are several other reasons why you might want to consider getting a new toilet, even if yours is still functioning properly. For instance, if your current toilet uses too much water per flush or doesn’t flush properly, upgrading to a newer model could save you money on your monthly water bill. Or, if you find yourself having to plunge your toilet frequently, investing in a newer model with better flushing power could save you time and hassle in the long run.
Ultimately, whether or not you need a new toilet depends on multiple factors. The most important thing is to be aware of the signs that indicate it might be time for an upgrade so that you can address any potential problems before they become serious (and expensive) ones.