Get matched with top toilet pros in Readlyn, IA

To test for toilet leaks, use water coloring in the water tank and see if the water slips into the bowl from the tank. This test will indicate if there’s a problem with the flapper or refill tube. You can also put water coloring in the bowl of the toilet to see if there is a leak there. If there is, you should see the colored water on the outside of the toilet bowl or on the floor. 

The main cause of bathroom leaks is seals and connectors that loosen or deteriorate over time, causing leaks to develop. It's important to stay on top of your bathroom materials, as toilets, showers, and sinks all have different lifespans. Toilets and faucets last between 10 and 15 years on average with regular maintenance, but different parts may have shorter lifespans than others.

Replacing a toilet costs between $275 and $480 in most cases, and the average cost sits around $375. This includes removing the old toilet and installing the new toilet. Your price could be significantly higher if you invest in a high-quality brand, need the replacement done on an emergency basis, or replace your toilet as a part of a larger bathroom remodel that demands additional work.

Yes, you can have a toilet without a septic tank. However, it will have to be a composting toilet. Composting toilets work similarly to aerobic septic systems in that the waste, which sits in a separate compartment below the toilet itself, is slowly broken down by aerobic bacteria. These toilets typically have a vent to get rid of harmful gasses with a fan, which requires a battery. You will have to dispose of waste in the toilet manually every three weeks to every three months, depending on how many people are using the toilet.