Get matched with top toilet pros in Harrison, NY

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.

If you don’t replace a toilet flapper, your toilet tank will continue to empty and fill repeatedly, wasting water and running up your utility bills. Checking the flapper is a good first guess when dealing with a constantly running toilet. However, if these problems continue after replacing the flapper, you may need to hire a plumber to check and fix any bigger problems. 

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.

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."