There are few things in the home that bring a sense of dread like a toilet that doesn’t perform as it should. Some issues are a little more stressful, such as when the water level goes the wrong direction when you flush it. Other problems may not seem as pressing but could lead to much bigger issues if not addressed.
Do you find your toilet is flushing slow, does it sound like it’s always filling, or do you hear the occasional “phantom flush?” Although you may think toilets are relatively simple fixtures, there are a lot of moving parts that can wear out, including seals that may lead to a rotting subfloor and eventual structural damage.
Toilet Issues
When properly maintained, toilets are one of the more durable fixtures in the home, lasting anywhere from 25 to 50 years. But at some point, you’ll want to consider a replacement. Let’s take a look at some of the most common problems with your toilet. Some problems are easy fixes while others become a little more involved.
Toilet Clogs
Oftentimes, this is less an issue with the toilet and more of what is being put into the bowl. Too much toilet paper is often the culprit, although you’d be amazed at what some people try to flush. But after a period of time, your flushing may not be as powerful as it once was.
Other issues include problematic toilet venting or traps and even issues with the main sewer line. Obviously, these problems go beyond the toilet – Meticulous Plumbing will inspect the entire to make sure we know exactly why the toilet just doesn’t flush like it once did.
Leaky Toilet Connections
Is your once steady toilet suddenly not as stable as it used to be? This could be a sign that you’re dealing with a leak where the water is coming into the bathroom, somewhere in the tank, where the tank connects to the bowl, or even where the toilet meets the floor. If these leaks aren’t addressed, it could lead to a rotting floor underneath.
Cracked Tanks and Cracked Toilet Bowls
In some cases, replacing the wax ring or connections will do enough to fix a leaky toilet. But if the connections all seem in good shape, there could be cracks in the tank or the bowl itself. Although there are patches for toilet tanks, it may be time to replace the whole unit.
Constantly Running Water
Although porcelain or ceramic toilets are quite durable, the interior parts can get worn over time. Floats, fill valves and tubes, levers, and flappers all come together to make your toilet work. As they get worn over time, you could experience phantom flushes (where tank water continually leaks into the bowl) or the never-ending sounds of running water. This is when the float is working properly, allowing continual water to come in through the inlet valve.
Time for a New Toilet?
If you’re finding you’re constantly having to deal with a problematic toilet, it may be time to consider replacing it. Newer toilets manage to have more flushing power with less water, more dependable parts, and are just more comfortable to use.
Meticulous Plumbing can suggest many different designs and styles of toilets for your bathroom. Our expert installation will ensure that no matter what you decide, the only thing you’ll have to worry about is one of the kids trying to flush the entire roll of toilet paper to “see what happens.”
Types of Toilets
Among the various types of toilet available to you, we are happy to install any of the following:
- ADA toilet: In order to accommodate individuals who use wheelchairs, ADA-accessible toilets stand 17-19 inches from the floor to the top of the toilet seat, nearly two inches higher than standard toilets. These toilets are routinely installed with grab bars on one or both sides to aid those with disabilities.
- Comfort height toilet: These toilets truly have your comfort in mind. While the average, residential toilet stands from 14 to 16 inches tall, these models routinely stand between 17 and 19 inches high. Because of their height, many comfort height toilets are considered ADA-compliant.
- Dual flush: Save water and energy with a toilet that packs two settings, one for liquids and one for solids.
- Bidet-style seat: Bidets have been a part of European personal hygiene practices for decades. Now, American homeowners are beginning to incorporate this functionality and report increased comfort, confidence, and refreshment.
- Low-flow toilet: A low-flow toilet functions as a flush toilet that uses substantially less water than full-flush toilets, benefitting both the environment and your water bill.
- Ultra high-efficiency toilet: HETs, or high-efficiency toilets, can flush using 20% less water than the average toilet and should not need to be flushed more than once to accomplish the task. HETs are quiet and available in a wide variety of styles.
Your Trusted Toilet Installation Team in Portland, Oregon
With the wide variety of toilets available for purchase and installation these days, choosing the right one for your home can be a challenge. For this reason, your friendly experts at Meticulous Plumbing are more than happy to answer all of your questions and help you make an informed decision that suits you and your family.
Although we carry an entire line of Toto brand toilets, we can install, repair, and maintain any brand of toilet in your home. We are happy to provide you with the product and service you deserve. In addition to toilet installation, we also perform several other residential and commercial plumbing services.
Whether you’re having problems with a faulty toilet at your home, looking at a major kitchen remodel, or thinking about adding a new master bathroom, contact Meticulous Plumbing. We can switch out a bathroom sink and fixture or repipe your entire home. Think of us as your local Portland Metro area plumber.