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Last Revised: 1/31/25
Have you ever wondered how long your toilet should actually last? Or when it makes more sense to replace it than keep repairing it?
A malfunctioning toilet can lead to wasted water, nonstop frustration, and unexpected expenses. While toilets are built to be durable, they don’t last forever and knowing when to fix or replace one can save you time, money, and frustration.
Replacing a toilet may seem like a daunting decision-making process, but we’re here to make it straightforward.
With over 75 years of plumbing expertise, we’ve helped countless homeowners make this decision with confidence. We’ve seen firsthand how things like water quality, material build, and maintenance impact a toilet’s lifespan.
In this article, you’ll learn how long toilets typically last, the clear signs that it’s time for a replacement, and expert tips to extend your toilet’s lifespan. Let’s start with the factors that determine how long you can expect your toilet to last.
What’s the Average Lifespan of a Toilet?
The average lifespan of a toilet is 15 to 25 years, however there are a few factors that can help achieve a longer lifespan or lead to a shorter one:
The Water Quality of Your Home’s Plumbing System
High levels of chlorine and chloramine or hard water can corrode components (in the upper part of the toilet) and create buildup in the trapway (the lower part of the toilet). To address this issue, there are several water conditioning systems available that can improve your water quality. On the other hand, ignoring your water quality can take years off the lifespan of your toilet.
The Usage Rate of Your Toilet
Toilets in households with more occupants also wear out faster than those in households with only one or two occupants. The more it’s used, the faster a toilet will wear down.
The Quality of Your Toilet’s Material
The quality of materials that your toilet is made of directly impacts its expected lifespan. Premium models, like TOTO or Kohler, typically outlast more budget-friendly options due to better materials and design.
Toilet Repair vs. Toilet Replacement: How to Make the Call
Are you running into some problems with your toilet and not sure if you should invest in repairing or replacing it? Here’s how to decide:
5 Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Toilet
1. Frequently Recurring Clogs
If clogs are becoming a routine issue, it may be due to excessive wear and tear or an ineffective design and it may be worth scheduling a professional inspection. In most cases, replacing a toilet that frequently encounters clogs is recommended.
2. Weak Flushing Power
Toilets with diminished flushing efficiency often have hard water deposits narrowing waterways. If you’re experiencing weak flushing power, replacing the toilet is advisable.
3. Leaks or Rocking Toilets
A toilet that wobbles when you sit on it or leaks around the base may have a range of issues that aren’t worth repairing as they will likely resurface again.
4. Ongoing Repairs
Each repair costs money (even if it’s a DIY fix), so take note of how frequently you’re spending money on your toilet. If you’re repeatedly fixing parts like the fill valve or flapper, installing a new one will be easier on your wallet in the long run.
5. Uncomfortable Design or Height
Using your toilet shouldn’t be an awkward or uncomfortable experience. In some cases, you can improve the comfort of your toilet by updating it with a new seat. But in other situations, like the height of your toilet being too high or too low, you’ll need to find an entirely new toilet that better suits you.
When It’s Better to Repair Your Toilet
If your toilet is relatively new (under 10 years old) and flushes well, repairing small components (like replacing a flapper or handle) can help achieve a longer lifespan. If you’re still unsure of whether to repair or replace your toilet, scheduling a professional plumbing inspection can provide quality insights and actionable recommendations.
What to Look for in a Replacement Toilet
Once you’ve decided it’s time for a new toilet, here’s how to ensure your investment lasts:
Choose a Water-Efficient Model
Federal law limits toilets to 1.6 gallons per flush (GPF), but you can choose a model that uses just 1.28 GPF to conserve water and keep your utility bill low. Selecting a more water-efficient toilet is a great strategy for improving your household’s overall efficiency, and these toilets also typically last longer than less efficient options.
Opt for Advanced Flush Technology
Modern toilets offer innovative flush systems, such as TOTO’s Tornado Flush, which creates a vortex effect to clean the bowl more effectively while using less water. Advanced flush systems reduce the likelihood of a clog, which can add years to your toilet’s lifespan.
Prioritize High-Quality Materials
Premium models feature fully glazed trapways and smoother surfaces that resist hard water buildup and ensure long-lasting performance. Similar to advanced flushing featurers, a smoother interior surfaces can minimize clogs and lead to a longer lifespan.
How to Extend the Life of Your Toilet
Now you know the key signs that indicate whether your toilet needs replacing or repairing. While toilets are built to last, regular maintenance can make a significant difference in their longevity and efficiency. Ignoring frequent clogs, weak flushing, and leaks can lead to more expensive water bills and costly repairs.
The easiest way to extend your toilet’s lifespan is to inspect it regularly for leaks or wear and call a plumber at the first sign of a serious problem. VIP maintenance memberships are designed to keep your existing plumbing system intact and running efficiently, making them an effective strategy to extend your toilet’s lifespan.
Don’t neglect to address any water quality concerns with systems like water softeners and advanced filters to avoid silent and unnecessary damage to your toilet.
Taking proactive measures before your toilet wears down is always the best way to get the most out of your home’s utility systems and is almost always cheaper in the long run. Like all equipment, however, toilets must be replaced once they show signs like weak flushing power, frequent repairs, and persistent leaks.
What to Do Next: Is it Time for a New Toilet?
Now you know the key signs that indicate whether your toilet needs replacing or repairing. While repairs are necessary to extend the life of a newer toilet, replacing an older model is often the better investment.
What’s the best strategy? Start your new or existing toilet with a maintenance plan right away. Annual maintenance inspections are a surefire way to get the longest lifespan and optimal efficiency out of your toilet.
Our team of expert plumbers at Mattioni have assisted countless homeowners with their toilet needs over our 76 years in business. And we’re here to help you too.
If you suspect it’s time for a new toilet, the best next step is to book a consultation with a professional plumber either online or by calling (610) 400-8510 to help make the right decision for your home.