Understanding Toilet Repair Services
A malfunctioning toilet is more than an inconvenience—it can waste hundreds of gallons of water, cause water damage, and disrupt your daily routine. Understanding common toilet problems and repair options can help you communicate effectively with plumbers and make informed decisions.
This guide covers everything you need to know about toilet repair and replacement, helping you find the right solution and the right plumber in Chattanooga.
Common Toilet Problems
Running Toilet A toilet that runs continuously can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day, significantly increasing your water bill. Common causes include:
- Worn flapper valve
- Faulty fill valve
- Float problems
- Overflow tube issues
A plumber can diagnose and fix running toilets quickly, often in under an hour.
Clogged Toilet While many clogs can be cleared with a plunger, stubborn or recurring clogs may indicate a deeper problem. Professional plumbers use specialized tools to clear tough clogs and can inspect your drain line to identify underlying issues.
Leaking Toilet Toilet leaks can occur in several places:
- Base leaks – Often caused by a failed wax ring seal, these can damage your subfloor if not addressed.
- Tank leaks – Cracks in the tank or failed gaskets between the tank and bowl.
- Supply line leaks – The water supply connection can loosen or corrode over time.
- Internal leaks – Water leaking from the tank into the bowl wastes water silently.
Weak or Incomplete Flush If your toilet doesn’t flush properly, the problem could be:
- Clogged rim jets
- Low water level in the tank
- Flapper closing too quickly
- Partial clog in the drain
- Venting issues
Toilet Won’t Flush A toilet that won’t flush at all may have:
- Broken handle or lift chain
- Failed flapper
- Clogged drain
- Water supply issues
Rocking or Loose Toilet A toilet that moves when you sit on it needs immediate attention. This usually indicates:
- Failed wax ring
- Loose mounting bolts
- Damaged flange
- Rotted subfloor
Ignoring a loose toilet can lead to leaks and serious water damage.
Toilet Services Explained
Toilet Repair Plumbers repair all toilet brands and models, including:
- Flapper and fill valve replacement
- Handle and flush mechanism repair
- Wax ring replacement
- Flange repair
- Tank-to-bowl gasket replacement
- Supply line replacement
- Seat replacement
Toilet Installation Whether you’re replacing an old toilet or installing one in a new bathroom, professional installation typically includes:
- Removal and disposal of old toilet
- Inspection of flange and drain
- Installation of new wax ring and toilet
- Connection to water supply
- Testing and adjustment
- Cleanup
Toilet Replacement If your toilet is old, inefficient, or beyond repair, a plumber can help you choose and install a new one. Modern toilets use significantly less water than older models, saving you money on water bills.
Choosing a New Toilet
If you’re considering a new toilet, here are factors to consider:
Flush Type
- Gravity-fed – The most common type, uses the weight of water to create flushing power.
- Pressure-assisted – Uses compressed air for a more powerful flush, good for heavy use.
- Dual-flush – Offers two flush options for liquid or solid waste, saving water.
Bowl Shape
- Round – More compact, good for small bathrooms.
- Elongated – More comfortable, preferred by most homeowners.
Height
- Standard – About 15 inches from floor to seat.
- Comfort height – About 17-19 inches, easier for adults and those with mobility issues.
Water Efficiency Modern toilets use 1.28-1.6 gallons per flush (GPF), compared to 3.5-7 GPF for older models. Look for WaterSense certified toilets for maximum efficiency.
One-Piece vs. Two-Piece
- One-piece – Tank and bowl are integrated, easier to clean, more expensive.
- Two-piece – Separate tank and bowl, more affordable, easier to transport.
When to Repair vs. Replace
Consider replacing your toilet if:
- It’s more than 25 years old
- It requires frequent repairs
- It uses more than 1.6 gallons per flush
- The bowl or tank is cracked
- It clogs frequently despite proper use
- You’re remodeling your bathroom
Repair is usually the better option if:
- The toilet is relatively new
- The problem is minor (flapper, fill valve, etc.)
- The repair cost is significantly less than replacement
Toilet Maintenance Tips
Keep your toilet working properly with these tips:
- Don’t use the toilet as a trash can – Only flush toilet paper and human waste.
- Avoid chemical cleaners – Harsh chemicals can damage toilet components.
- Check for leaks regularly – Add food coloring to the tank; if color appears in the bowl without flushing, you have a leak.
- Don’t ignore running water – A running toilet wastes water and money.
- Clean the rim jets – Mineral buildup can reduce flushing power.
- Know your shut-off valve – In an emergency, you’ll need to turn off the water quickly.
Emergency Toilet Service
Toilet emergencies can happen at any time. If your toilet is overflowing, backing up, or causing water damage, you need help fast. Several Chattanooga plumbers offer 24/7 emergency service.
If your toilet is overflowing:
- Remove the tank lid and push down the flapper to stop water flow
- Turn off the water supply valve behind the toilet
- Don’t flush again
- Call a local plumber with 24/7 availability
How to Choose a Plumber for Toilet Work
When selecting a plumber for toilet repair or installation:
- Get upfront pricing – Reputable plumbers provide estimates before starting work
- Check reviews – Look for mentions of toilet work in Google and Yelp reviews
- Ask about warranties – Quality plumbers stand behind their work
- Verify licensing – Ensure they’re properly licensed in Tennessee
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does toilet repair cost?
Simple repairs like flapper replacement typically cost $75-$150. More complex repairs like wax ring replacement range from $150-$300. Always get upfront pricing before work begins.
How long does toilet installation take?
A standard toilet installation takes about 1-2 hours, including removal of the old toilet and cleanup.
Can a plumber install a toilet I purchased myself?
Yes, most plumbers will install customer-supplied toilets. Just make sure you have all the necessary parts and that the toilet is appropriate for your bathroom.
How much does a new toilet cost installed?
Basic toilets with installation typically run $250-$500. Mid-range toilets cost $400-$800 installed. High-end or specialty toilets can exceed $1,000 with installation.
Need toilet repair or installation? Browse our directory of local Chattanooga plumbers who can help with all your toilet needs. Find Toilet Repair Experts →