We’ve all been there — the unsettling gurgles, the phantom flushes, the unexpected puddles on the bathroom floor. In these situations, your toilet, which usually goes unnoticed, suddenly becomes the center of attention … and not in a good way. While some signs of trouble can be tackled with a trusty plunger or a bit of elbow grease, others signal that it’s time to call in a professional. But how do you know when your toilet issues are beyond a DIY fix?
In this blog, we’ll review the key signs your toilet needs professional repair and when it’s best to leave it to the experts.
Signs Your Toilet Needs Professional Repair
Toilets are a fundamental part of our daily lives, yet they often go unnoticed until they start malfunctioning. Is your toilet trying to tell you something? Here are the top signs your toilet needs professional repair:
Constant Clogging
One of the most obvious signs you need toilet repair is constant clogging. Occasional clogs are normal, but if you find yourself reaching for the plunger more than once a week, it’s time to call in the pros. Frequent clogs could indicate a deeper issue with your plumbing system or a blockage that needs to be professionally cleared.
Running Toilet
A running toilet isn’t just annoying — it’s a waste of water and money. If your toilet continues to run long after you’ve flushed, this can be one of the most obvious signs you need toilet repair. This problem could be due to a faulty fill valve or flapper valve. These components control the flow of water into the toilet tank, and when they’re not working properly, your toilet will keep running.
Leaking Toilet
Leaking toilets can cause significant damage if left unchecked. Look for water puddles around the base of your toilet, or listen for the sound of dripping water. These are clear signs you need toilet repair. A leaking toilet may also lead to mildew growth and damage to the floor beneath the toilet.
Frequent Repairs
If you’ve had to call a plumber multiple times to fix your toilet, it might be more cost-effective to replace it. Older toilets often require frequent repairs, and the cost can quickly add up. Investing in a new toilet could save you money in the long run.
Slow Flushing
Slow flushing is also one of the most common signs you need toilet repair. Inefficient flushing can be caused by built-up mineral deposits in the toilet bowl or an issue with the toilet’s flush mechanism. This problem is especially common in areas with hard water.
What Is the Most Common Toilet Repair?
When it comes to toilet issues, some repairs are more common than others. So, what is the most common toilet repair? Here are a few that plumbers often encounter:
Replacing the Flapper Valve
The flapper valve is a rubber seal that controls the flow of water from the tank to the bowl. As time passes, the flapper can become worn or damaged, leading to leaks and running toilets. Replacing the flapper valve is a relatively simple and inexpensive repair that can solve many common toilet problems.
Fixing the Fill Valve
The fill valve controls the water level in the toilet tank. If the fill valve is faulty, it can cause the toilet to run continuously or not fill properly. Replacing or adjusting the fill valve is another common repair that can resolve these issues.
Clearing Blockages
Blockages in the toilet or the plumbing system can cause frequent clogs and slow flushing. Plumbers use specialized tools to clear these blockages and restore proper function to your toilet.
How Do You Tell If a Toilet Has a Slow Leak?
Detecting a slow leak in your toilet can be tricky, but there are a few telltale signs you can look for:
Higher Water Bills
A sudden increase in your water bill is often the first sign associated with toilet leaks. If you notice your utility costs going up without a clear reason, it’s worth checking your toilet for leaks.
Water Stains
Look for water stains on the floor around the base of your toilet or on the ceiling below the bathroom. These stains can indicate a slow leak that’s causing water to seep into the surrounding area.
Food Coloring Test
One simple way to check for a slow leak is to add a few drops of food coloring to the toilet tank. Wait about 30 minutes without flushing, then check the toilet bowl. If the water in the bowl is colored, you have a leak.
When to Replace Your Toilet
Sometimes, repairing your toilet isn’t enough. Here are some situations where replacing your toilet is the best option:
Excessive Age
Toilets, like any other household fixture, have a lifespan. If yours is over 20 years old, there’s a good chance that your toilet needs to be replaced. Older toilets are less efficient and more prone to leaks and other issues.
Cracks in the Toilet Bowl or Tank
Small cracks in the toilet bowl or tank can lead to leaks and structural damage. If you notice any cracks, it’s a sure sign that you need a toilet replacement.
Inefficient Flushing
The average toilet uses 1.6 gallons per flush. If your toilet uses more than three to five gallons per flush, it’s outdated and inefficient. Modern toilets are designed to use about two gallons per flush, which can significantly reduce your water usage and save money on your water bill. Consider upgrading to a more water-efficient toilet.
Frequent Clogs
Older toilets are more prone to clogging. If you’re experiencing frequent clogs, it might be time to invest in a more efficient model.
Schedule Your Services With Environment Masters!
If you’re experiencing any of the signs your toilet needs professional repair, don’t wait for the problem to worsen. Contact the experts at Environment Masters! Our team of skilled plumbers in Jackson can diagnose and repair your toilet issues quickly and efficiently, helping you avoid costly repairs down the road.
Remember, not every plumbing issue is a DIY fix. Sometimes, calling in the pros is the best course of action. Don’t wait until a small issue becomes a major headache. Whether you’re dealing with a clogged toilet, want to upgrade to a low-flush toilet, or need a sewer line installation, we’ve got all your plumbing needs covered. Schedule your service in Jackson, MS, or one of the surrounding areas today!
