Do you offer same-day plumbing?

Yes. We prioritize urgent issues like burst pipes, major leaks, and sewer backups during business hours. Call us to check current availability.

What areas do you service?

We service all counties in the region, including residential and commercial properties. Use our service area checker to confirm coverage for your location.

How much do plumbing services cost?

Plumbing costs vary depending on the type of service and complexity. Use our cost calculator for an estimate, or contact us for a detailed quote. We provide transparent pricing with no hidden fees.

Are your plumbers licensed and insured?

Yes, all our plumbers are fully licensed, bonded, and insured. We maintain the highest standards of professionalism and workmanship.

Do you provide guarantees on your work?

Yes, we stand behind our work with quality guarantees. We offer workmanship guarantees on repairs and installations. Specific terms vary by service type and are discussed before starting any work. Manufacturer warranties apply to parts and equipment we install.

When to Repair vs. Replace Your Toilet

Your toilet is one of the most-used fixtures in your home, but when it starts acting up, the decision to repair or replace can be confusing. This guide will help you make the right choice for your home and budget.

How Long Should a Toilet Last?

A well-maintained toilet can last 15-30 years or more, but its lifespan depends on several factors including the quality of the original installation, water quality, frequency of use, and regular maintenance. While the porcelain bowl and tank are incredibly durable, the internal components wear out much faster—typically every 5-10 years.

Common Toilet Problems (And When to Repair)

Many toilet issues are minor and can be fixed with simple, affordable repairs:

Running Toilet

A constantly running toilet is usually caused by a worn flapper valve or faulty fill valve. These are inexpensive parts that can be replaced in under an hour.

Verdict: Repair

Cost: $15-50 for DIY parts, or $150-250 for professional service. A running toilet can waste 200+ gallons per day, so fix this quickly!

Weak Flush

A weak or incomplete flush is often caused by clogged rim jets (the small holes under the toilet rim), a partially clogged drain, or mineral buildup. Cleaning the jets with vinegar or a wire can restore proper flushing.

Verdict: Repair (Usually)

Clean the rim jets and check for obstructions. If the problem persists, it could indicate a larger issue with the toilet's design or internal passages.

Loose or Wobbly Toilet

A rocking toilet is typically caused by loose closet bolts or an uneven floor. Tightening the bolts or adding shims usually solves the problem—but check for water damage around the base first.

Warning:

If you see water damage, rotting flooring, or a damaged wax ring, you'll need professional help to properly reseal the toilet and repair any subfloor damage.

Minor Leaks

Small leaks around the base or from tank bolts can often be fixed by replacing the wax ring, tank-to-bowl gasket, or tightening connections.

Verdict: Repair

Cost: $100-300 for professional service. Address leaks immediately to prevent water damage and mold growth.

When to Replace Your Toilet

Sometimes replacement is the smarter choice—here's when:

1. Your Toilet is Over 25 Years Old

Older toilets use 3.5 to 7 gallons per flush, compared to modern high-efficiency toilets (HETs) that use just 1.28 gallons per flush. Upgrading can save your family thousands of gallons of water and hundreds of dollars per year.

Cost Savings Example:

A family of four using an old 5-gallon toilet vs. a new 1.28-gallon model can save over 27,000 gallons annually—that's about $200-400 per year in water and sewer costs!

2. Frequent Repairs

If you're calling a plumber for toilet repairs every few months, it's time to cut your losses. Repeated repairs add up quickly, and an unreliable toilet is a daily inconvenience.

Rule of thumb: If repair costs exceed 50% of a new toilet's price, replace it.

3. Cracks in the Porcelain

Cracks in the toilet tank or bowl—even hairline cracks—can lead to sudden leaks or even catastrophic failure. There's no reliable way to repair porcelain cracks, so replacement is necessary.

Verdict: Replace Immediately

Even small cracks can grow and cause flooding. Don't risk it—schedule a replacement as soon as possible.

4. Persistent Clogs

If your toilet clogs frequently despite proper use (no flushing wipes, etc.), the internal trap or drainage pathways may be inadequate. Older low-flow toilets from the 1990s were notorious for poor flushing performance.

Modern toilets are engineered with improved flushing technology like pressure-assist systems, larger trapways, and better bowl designs. Upgrading will save you from constant plunging.

5. Constant Wobbling Despite Repairs

If your toilet continues to rock even after tightening bolts and shimming, the flange may be broken or the subfloor damaged. While the flange can be repaired, if you're already dealing with water damage and an older toilet, replacement is often the better investment.

6. You Want to Upgrade Comfort or Efficiency

Even if your toilet works fine, you might choose to upgrade for:

Comfort height toilets: Taller bowls (17-19 inches) are easier on knees and backs
Water savings: Modern WaterSense-certified toilets use 20% less water than standard models
Dual-flush options: Choose between a full or partial flush for maximum efficiency
Bidet seats: Add comfort and hygiene with an integrated bidet function
Better aesthetics: Modern designs can enhance your bathroom's appearance

How Much Does Toilet Replacement Cost?

Here's what to expect for professional toilet replacement in Southwest Washington:

Budget toilets: $150-300 (toilet) + $150-250 (installation) = $300-550 total
Mid-range toilets: $300-600 (toilet) + $150-250 (installation) = $450-850 total
Premium toilets: $600-1,500+ (toilet) + $150-300 (installation) = $750-1,800+ total

Additional costs may apply if you need flange repair, subfloor replacement, or plumbing modifications. At H2O Plumbing, we provide transparent pricing and will inspect your installation conditions before starting work.

What to Look for in a New Toilet

When shopping for a replacement toilet, consider these features:

WaterSense certification: Ensures efficiency without sacrificing performance
MaP (Maximum Performance) score: Look for a score of 500+ grams (most toilets now exceed 800g)
Comfort height: Also called "ADA height"—easier for most adults
Elongated bowl: More comfortable than round bowls (if space allows)
Siphonic jet or pressure-assist: Superior flushing performance
Easy-clean design: Skirted trapways and surface coatings resist stains
Quiet-close seat: Prevents slamming lids

The Bottom Line: Repair or Replace?

Quick Decision Guide

Choose Repair If:

Your toilet is less than 15 years old
The issue is minor (running, weak flush, loose)
There are no cracks or major damage
Repair costs are under $200

Choose Replacement If:

Your toilet is over 25 years old
You have cracks in the tank or bowl
Frequent repairs are adding up
You want to save water and money
Persistent clogs won't go away

Expert Installation Matters

Whether you choose to repair or replace, professional installation ensures the job is done right. At H2O Plumbing, we've been installing and repairing toilets for Southwest Washington families for over Family-Owned years. Our experienced technicians will:

Inspect your existing setup and recommend the best solution
Properly remove and dispose of your old toilet
Check and repair the flange and subfloor if needed
Install your new toilet with a proper seal to prevent leaks
Test for proper operation and check for any issues
Clean up completely—you won't even know we were there!

We also offer a satisfaction guarantee on all our work, so you can trust that your new toilet will perform flawlessly for years to come.