Get matched with top toilet pros in Sidney, NE

To keep your toilet in good working order, replace the toilet fill valve every five years. Toilets get quite a workout, so while toilet maintenance may not be on top of your to-do list, it’s essential to keep up with it to ensure your toilet is in good working order and ready when needed.

In most cases, it’s better to repair a toilet than to replace it. Fixing issues like low water levels, running water, and flushing problems is less expensive than buying a new unit. Start thinking about replacement if the toilet is cracked, using excessive amounts of water, or is over 15 years old. Newer models are more water-efficient and clog less often than older models.

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.

After flushing the toilet, you should have about half a tank full of water. While the exact amount of water you’ll have will vary, you want to make sure you have enough to cover the bottom of the bowl and enough to sit above the P-trap drain. While low water in your toilet bowl can indicate a problem, too much water can also be cause for concern.