When to Replace a Toilet or a Sink

When it comes to a sink or a toilet, it’s not always obvious they need to be replaced. At Economy Plumbing Service, we often get calls to repair sinks and toilets. In many cases, a replacement would better suit the homeowners needs than a repair, but it is often hard to spot the difference between a need for a repair and a replacement. So we compiled a helpful guide to explain just that: when you should replace a toilet or a sink. 

When to Replace a Toilet

There are a few obvious signs that should get you thinking about a replacement toilet, such as cracked porcelain that leads to a leak, or deep scratches that you just can’t clean out. If you notice a pool of water, you should replace your toilet right away instead of trying to repair it. Call a plumber to get their advice on what is causing the leak and get their advice to take appropriate action before mold or water damage forms. 

Besides cracked porcelain, scratches that are becoming increasingly difficult to clean, a leak, or a broken exterior, there are a couple of obvious signs for when you should replace a toilet. 

It Frequently Clogs

Does your toilet require plunging more than once a week? Or does it need more than one flush most of the time? This indicates that your toilet is probably old, or there is something not working right within it. Both are signs that you should be looking for a replacement. 

While frequent clogging isn’t necessarily a sign of a broken toilet, it can be cumbersome to have to use a plunger on a regular basis. The problem may be solved by replacing the inner workings of the toilet, but this can be a challenging task for someone who isn’t trained. 

It Needs Too Many Repairs

As mentioned above, repairing a toilet isn’t the most straightforward — it can require replacing quite a few things in the tank, such as its handle, flapper, and fill valve. Some repairs are simple, like replacing the flushing mechanism or untangling the chain that connects the handle to the flapper. Others can be as complicated as sealing a crack, replacing piping underneath the toilet, or resealing it all together. 

If you find yourself repairing your toilet often, it’s probably time to replace the entire unit.  

To Save Water and Money

Older toilet models often use too much water and are not as efficient as newer models. If you do not have a low-flush toilet, it may be beneficial to replace your toilet to save money on your water bill. An efficient toilet uses less than 2 gallons of water per flush, while older models can use between 3-5 gallons. 

Think of it this way: you can use 15 gallons of water per day for 3 toilet flushes, or you can use 6 gallons for the same amount of flushes. This will not only save you money on your utility bill each month, but is better for the planet. 

When to Replace a Sink

Like toilets, sinks have quite a few working parts that shouldn’t need constant repair or replacement. It’s not always easy to notice when a replacement is needed, save for a leak, a broken faucet, or a large crack. 

The first thing you should be looking for in older sinks are leaks. If you hear dripping water, investigate immediately. It could be the sound of a broken sink. Leaks can cause extensive damage to your home if not found and repaired quickly. If you’re not sure where to look, start by searching for any visible wear and tear on the sink itself, the faucet, and the pipes underneath. 

Damage could range from a chipped basin to a crack forming up the side. No matter how big or small the damage could be, it’s important to assess it as quickly as possible.

You Are Constantly Repairing Your Sink

A general rule is that anything that consistently needs to be repaired should be replaced. If your sink isn’t able to retain any water or it’s clogged continuously, those are a telltale sign that your sink or the pipes underneath it will need to be replaced. 

If the repair isn’t a simple fix, call a plumber. They may be able to help patch the problem, or can install your new sink for you. 

Your Sink Is Outdated

There was an era where pink, blue, and yellow bathrooms were all the rage. If you’re not into that, or are looking to sell your home, you should probably modernize your bathroom, including the sink. The sink may still be functional, but if it’s not aesthetically pleasing, then you should swap it out with something you like. 

An outdated sink and faucet can also waste water and not be as efficient as newer models. 

If any of this sounds familiar, consider getting a replacement and calling a plumber to help install it for you. 

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