Signs Your Toilet Needs Repaired

Having to repair a toilet is a situation that every homeowner will face at one time or another. As one of the most necessary parts of a home’s plumbing, a broken toilet will need to be resolved quickly. It is always helpful to know the signs that a toilet may be in need of repair so that a small problem does not turn into a bigger and more expensive one down the road. Here are the most important signs to look out for.

Strange Noises After Flushing

Clogs and blocks in any part of the plumbing including drains and vents can cause new sounds. Gurgling, bubbling or sucking sounds usually indicate a problem. If you notice any of these sounds suddenly occurring, it usually means a call to your plumber is in your future.

Frequent Clogs

There is nothing more frustrating than a toilet that is constantly clogging, overflowing, or running slowly. Improper use of the toilet including flushing items such as paper towels, baby wipes, feminine products, or anything except for septic friendly toilet paper and waste, can cause clogging. However, if you are using the appliance correctly and still experiencing frequent clogs, it may be time for service.

Constantly Running Toilet

Occasionally the flapper on the inside of the toilet will become jammed, causing the toilet to continually run until the toilet is fixed. Many times this is a quick one time fix that can be done without help, but if the toilet has a habit of running for long periods of time after flushing, it may need a more extensive repair. A constantly running toilet can waste water and cause utility bills to increase, so it is important to fix the problem.

Noticeable Damage

Homeowners should be in the habit of regularly inspecting their toilets for any noticeable damage on and around the toilet. If there is any rust or corrosion, or if there are any cracks, a repair will be needed. Cracks in the bowl of the toilet need attention as these can cause leakage and risk damage to flooring and other parts of the home.

Pools of Water

Any pools of water around the toilet should be immediately investigated. Pooling water can cause structural damage as well as become a health hazard to your family. Leaking water can be a drain on your budget, and lead to mold and foul odors, so you should call your plumber at the first sign of a leak.

Multiple Flushes Needed

If your toilet needs more than one flush to eliminate the contents, or if you need to hold the handle down until the flush is complete, this may be a sign of an imminent toilet repair. The problem may be traced back to one of many different root causes so the plumber will need to diagnose the source of the issue before making the repair. Often the handle may just need to be fixed, but it may be a more complex problem such as overall low water pressure.

Investing in a New Toilet

In many cases, a quick repair can get your toilet back to perfect working condition. However, there may be a time when a toilet replacement may make more sense both financially and practically. Investing in a new toilet can be a wise decision that can improve your quality of life and help you save money on water bills.

Many new toilets are designed with water conservation in mind. Homeowners with toilets older than the 1990s should consider replacing their toilets with appliances that use less water. Many people also choose to replace toilets to increase the aesthetic appeal of their bathroom. There are many sleek and attractive models that can add to the beauty of the room.

Toilets will also need to be replaced when the damage or cost of repair is too high. Leaks or rust that has spread too far will likely necessitate a replacement. After inspecting your toilet, the technician will be able to provide helpful advice to enable you to decide whether to go ahead with a repair or to purchase a new toilet.

Your toilet is an important part of home comfort. One of the best ways to keep it in good working condition and to avoid major breakdowns is to look for small signs that something is wrong. If it clogs frequently, makes new noises, or shows signs of leaking, call your plumber right away to help you fix the problem before it becomes worse.

At Alpha Plumbing we have been serving clients in the south bay area for more than 30 years. During this time we have striven to provide our customers with the best plumbing services in the area. We offer services ranging from sewer line repair and repiping to toilet and water heater installations with a customer satisfaction guarantee.