When is it time to replace a toilet?

When your toilet clogs or overflows, the mess can take hours to clean up. Of course, the crisis usually occurs at the wrong time like when you are having a party or during a holiday.  Imagine if you are not at home when the water crisis occurs!  Then you are left to fix the problem yourself or quickly find a plumber to perform the repairs for you.  So, how do you know when your toilet is in its final stages and requires a replacement?

1.    INCESSANT CLOGGING- It’s not uncommon for objects to get flushed down the toilet, many of which may land in areas of piping that are inaccessible. Not only items, but also deposits from minerals in the water that may continue to build along the piping until it’s completely blocked. The resulting blockage could be requiring you to plunge your toilet multiple times on a weekly basis; at this point, it is probably time to replace at least some plumbing components or invest in a new toilet.

 

2.    CRACKS and LEAKS- Cracks in the porcelain comprising the bowl, base, or tank of the toilet will gradually deepen if left unchecked. If not dealt with, eventually the cracked area will break, resulting in flooding and ruined floors.  Even though the emergency might not arise for a long time, cracks can still cause daily leakage, most likely whenever the toilet is flushed, and water damage to the area surrounding the toilet. As cracking or leaking increase, it’s recommended to choose a new toilet as soon as possible.

3.    CONSTANT REPAIRS- The costs of those small fixes add up; the stopper in the tank or the toilet handle are common and easy enough to fix.  Sometimes the accompanying pipes need repair.  At some point, the cost of the repairs becomes greater than that of a new toilet. If it’s been years since your toilet has been replaced, newer units have become much more efficient and water saving.

If you are not sure, if you want a comfort height toilet, elongated seat or pressure assisted flushing click hear to read our guide on buying a new toilet.  http://jacksontotalhometips.blogspot.com/2014/07/guide-to-buying-new-toilet.html

Jackson Total Service is an air conditioning, plumbing and electrical contractor in Naples, FL.  We are located at 3727 Enterprise Ave 34104. 

Feel free to contact us at (239) 643-0923 or on the web at www.jacksontotal.com           www.facebook.com/jacksontotalservice

Guide to Buying a New Toilet

Buying a new toilet may seem easy.    Nowadays, you can buy a toilet in a box.  The box has everything you need for the installation.  However, there are many features to consider when choosing a toilet and the technology that is making them more comfortable, efficient and eco-friendly than ever before. 

Here are some options to consider when making a new purchase: 

Select Bowl Shape 

Do you prefer a round bowl or elongated shape?  Elongated toilets tend to provide greater comfort but they take up more space.  If you have a smaller bathroom, such as a half-bath, choose a round bowl toilet that will fit into tight spaces.   

 

Select Toilet Height
Next, determine the appropriate height for your toilet. Standard sizes are 14 or 15 inches, but the 16 or 17-inch models are becoming increasingly popular, especially for taller or physically challenged individuals.  These are called comfort height toilets or ADA approved toilets.

 

Select Design Style

There are three design styles to consider when purchasing a new toilet:

Two-Piece: The bowl and tank are separate pieces

• Most common type
• Generally more economical
• Easy to find replacement parts 

One-Piece: Tank and bowl fused together into a seamless unit

• May require larger upfront investment
• Save space
• No hard-to-clean crevices
• Creates a sleek, stylish look

Wall Mounted: Mounts to wall and eliminates need for toilet foot or base

• May cost more to purchase and install
• Ideal for transfers from wheelchair or walker
• Requires thicker wall for mounting
• Drain for toilet must be on wall rather than floor
• Easy to clean underneath 

Water Saving Toilets

Save up to $90 per year on your water and sewage bill with WaterSense® labeled toilets. Toilets are the main source of water use in the home, accounting for nearly 30% of an average home's indoor water consumption. New flushing technology across various toilets has enabled water conservation without sacrificing flush performance.

Toilet Seats

Consider upgrading your new or existing toilet with a new toilet seat with features including slow or quiet close and easy cleaning. There are even toilet seats with night lights.  Check out the Kohler website for more information.  http://www.us.kohler.com/us/

Jackson Total Service is an air conditioning, plumbing and electrical contractor in Naples, FL.  Contact us at (239) 643-0923 or on the web at www.jacksontotal.com