Get matched with top toilet pros in Flora, MS

The average cost to hire a plumber is typically between $45 and $200 per hour, with a common average rate around $125 per hour. This cost can vary based on your location, the plumber's experience, and the complexity of the job. Rates are often broken down by experience level: an apprentice may charge $45 to $90 an hour, a journeyman $60 to $110 an hour, and a master plumber $80 to $200 an hour. While hourly rates are standard, some plumbers may charge a flat fee for routine projects or offer project-based pricing. It's also common for plumbers to charge a minimum service or trip fee. For reference, some typical flat-rate costs for common jobs include: drain unclogging ($220), leaky faucet repair ($270), burst pipe repair ($400), toilet repair ($300), and water heater repair ($600). Note that these rates are for standard service hours; emergency, holiday, and after-hours calls will cost significantly more.

You can DIY your toilet flapper replacement if you’re up for a small plumbing project. Turn off the water to the toilet, open the tank lid, remove the chain from the lever, and unhook the flapper. For a new, adjustable flapper, adjust it to the right setting according to your toilet's gallons per flush rating. Hook the flapper in place and install the chain with 1/2 inch of slack.

While technically possible, it is unlikely that a clogged toilet will fix itself. Clogs caused by water-soluble materials like toilet paper or human waste may eventually break down in the water, allowing flow to resume. However, this can take time, and any clogs from solid objects require manual removal. In most scenarios, especially if you don't have another bathroom, it is best to fix the clog yourself or call a plumber.

The cost to install a new toilet typically runs from $225 to $530. This doesn’t include the price of the toilet itself, which can cost $90 to $1,500 depending on the model and features you choose. You can save money if you choose to install a toilet yourself. However, you might want to hire a pro for this project.

"Due to the many complexities of replacing a toilet flange, it is typically a job best left to the pros," says Jeff Botelho, Angi Expert Review Board member and plumber. "Many times it isn't as simple and straightforward as 'pop off the old one and pop on a new one' because the flange is either glued on (PVC/ABS), soldered on (brass/copper), or caulked in place with a lead & oakum joint (cast iron) and none of these things can be easily reversed without years of training and repetitive practice."