Got an old toilet that keeps clogging? We bet you’re tired of flushing multiple times and constantly plunging just to get your toilet to do its job.
So you’re thinking about replacing the toilet. Will that solve the problem?
Maybe.
If your toilet is constantly clogging, the problem could be the toilet itself or it could be something else entirely (like a sewer or septic line problem).
So before you rush off to purchase a new porcelain throne, make sure the toilet is really the problem...
4 signs the toilet may not be the problem
-
This is a recent phenomenon — If the toilet started clogging recently, something else may be to blame (like a recent clog or a new brand of toilet paper that is more difficult to flush).
-
Other drains are also slow/clogging — Other slow or clogged drains in your home is a sign that you probably have a sewer line problem further down the drain line.
-
Gurgling noises when flushing — A toilet that gurgles can be a sign of a plumbing vent issue, which can prevent a toilet from flushing properly.
-
You’re flushing everything down the toilet — Only flush waste and toilet paper down the toilet. Flushing anything else (even facial tissues or flushable wipes) can create clogs.
Want to know the cause of the clogging? Pippin Brothers can inspect your drains with a video camera. Contact us for more info.
Related: Why You Shouldn’t Use Drano in Your Toilet
When to replace your toilet
Toilets are very simple mechanisms that can work for ages (we’ve worked on toilets that are over 50 years old!) and are not difficult to fix. So, if you have a problem with your toilet, it can likely be repaired.
However, there are times when replacing your toilet is a good idea. Here are some of those situations.
You have a low-flow toilet that’s over 20 years old
The early models of low-flush toilets did not work well, often making you flush 2 or more times after every visit. New low-flow toilets no longer have this problem.
You want to save water
Some older toilets can use as much as 6 gallons every time they flush whereas new, low-flush/high-efficiency toilets can use as little as 1.28 gallons per flush. Watersense estimates that a new toilet could save you nearly 13,000 gallons of water each year.
There’s a crack in the toilet
A crack in the porcelain of your toilet tank or bowl is a sure sign it’s time for a new one. Porcelain can’t be easily repaired.
You want one that ‘feels’ better
There are many different toilet seat shapes and heights. Everyone has their own preference. If You may want one that better fits how you like to do your business.
Decided you want a new toilet?
Check out our Toilet Buyer’s Guide or contact us to get a quote on a new, high-efficiency toilet for your home.