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Replacing a toilet typically takes two to four hours. Several factors can impact this timeline, including the condition of the old toilet, flange, flooring, and pipes. If a professional discovers issues like a cracked flange, damaged flooring, leaky pipes, or a broken wax ring, the installation will take longer. Additionally, some toilets, such as wall-mounted or in-wall-tank models, are more complex to install and may require cutting into and repairing drywall, which adds to the project time. Given the weight of toilets and the importance of proper placement, it is often best to hire a professional for the job.

If your toilet won’t stop running, you might have a bad fill valve. This may be the case if the valve has calcium or debris buildup, is cracked, or shows visible signs of wear and tear. A bad fill valve may also be the culprit if you’ve already checked the flapper and chain and adjusted the fill height to no avail.

The lifespan of a toilet can vary significantly. While the porcelain body itself can last up to 50 years or more with proper care, most plumbers suggest an average functional lifespan of 10 to 25 years, and many homeowners replace their toilets after about 20 years.

A toilet's longevity is influenced by factors like maintenance quality, hard water buildup, and damage to the finish. It's also important to note that internal components have much shorter lifespans than the bowl; for example, flappers may last only a few years, while fill valves can last around 10 years.

Even if an older toilet is still functional, consider upgrading to a high-efficiency model to save on water costs.

Yes, continuing to flush a clogged toilet is not likely to break up the clog. Instead, it will continue to put pressure on the clog while filling the bowl with more water, which can potentially cause the toilet to overflow—leading to an even bigger mess. Rather than repeatedly flushing, use a toilet plunger or plumber’s snake to dislodge the clog.