Get matched with top toilet pros in Teachey, NC

One of the many benefits of a pressure-assist toilet is how long it lasts. You can expect a well-maintained one to last up to 30 years. That's five years longer than a standard gravity-fed toilet, so it can be a worthwhile investment if you’re willing to spend more on your toilet installation.

While you shouldn’t increase the flow of your low-flow toilet by adjusting the water level in the toilet bowl set by the manufacturer, you can make the flow as efficient as possible by ensuring the rim jets under the rim are unobstructed. To do this, use a mirror to look under the rim and scrub them with a toothbrush or a small wire to clear any debris stuck in the holes. You can also watch for leaks, make sure the internal components are in good shape, and replace them if necessary.

Emergency plumbers charge a significantly higher rate than for standard service, typically 1.5 to 3 times the normal hourly cost. You can expect to pay between $100 and $500 per hour, with an average of around $200 per hour. In addition to the higher hourly rate, many plumbers charge a flat emergency service or trip fee, which can be between $150 and $300. The final cost depends on the timing of the call; prices are highest for major holidays, followed by weekends and after-hours service on weekdays. For a complex job on a major holiday, a master plumber's rate could reach as high as $600 per hour.

If you experience the telltale sign of wax ring failure, which is leaking water, replacing the faulty ring takes one to three hours, depending on accessibility. This is an exacting and time-consuming job, as several components must be removed for the plumber to access the ring. Once replaced, however, wax rings require little to no maintenance and last 30 years or longer.