One of the most used fixtures in your home, the toilet, on average has a lifespan of 10-15 years. For being used as often as it is, the toilet can withstand a lot. Unfortunately, there will come a time when you need to replace your toilet. Your toilet will give you warning, not always though, of when it needs to be replaced. However, if you don’t notice any of these warning signs, consult a plumber today to find out if you need a new toilet.
The average cost of a basic toilet installation is around $150, but it can cost anywhere between $350-$800. The elevated costs are based on the condition of the bathroom plumbing, the amount of work required, for example, adding new plumbing, and other unexpected costs during install. The cost of installation and labour determined by the plumber may vary as well causing the price to inflate. The installation can take anywhere between 1-2 hours, possibly longer if unexpected issues come up during the install.
Below are the average costs of Plumbing services across different cities in Canada:
| City | Average | Minimum | Maximum |
| Barrie | $2,330 | $100 | $14,000 |
| Calgary | $1,846 | $100 | $50,000 |
| Edmonton | $1,723 | $100 | $40,000 |
| Hamilton | $1,550 | $100 | $32,500 |
| Oshawa | $1,020 | $100 | $25,000 |
| Ottawa | $1,118 | $100 | $48,000 |
| Toronto | $1,442 | $100 | $50,000 |
| Vancouver | $2,115 | $100 | $45,000 |
*Costs based on 8637 verified Canadian homeowner reviews as of March 2022
There is only one method to installing your toilet, and it is relatively simple, so much so that some homeowners install their toilets themselves. This may save you money, but it is strongly suggested that you hire a professional and licensed plumber to complete this project in order to ensure proper installation up to code and reduce the risk of constant repairs in the future, which may lead to added costs.
If you are unsure if your toilet is in need of replacement, ask a plumber. If you begin to notice any of the following signs, then it is likely time to install a new toilet.
7 Signs Your Toilet Needs To Be Replaced
1. Constant Repairs
If you find yourself constantly needing to call a plumber to come fix minor or major repairs with your toilet, then you should start to consider installing a new toilet. Chronic issues with your toilet can be detrimental to your home and lead to further issues and costs. You can save money by installing a new toilet versus paying for repairs throughout the year.
2. Cracks in the Bowl and/or Tank
Cracks in the bowl and/or tank of your toilet can lead to leaks that will damage the flooring underneath your toilet. Tip: if you are unable to tell if there are any cracks, put coloured dye into the water of the tank or bowl and see if the dyed water ends up on the floor. If you spot the coloured dye on the floor or notice at any time that you have water pooling around the base of your toilet, hire a plumber to take a look at your toilet today to prevent further damage to your home.
3. Constantly Running
You will be able to hear if your toilet is constantly running. This is most commonly due to interior damage to a part of the toilet. Not all damaged toilets run constantly, some stopping shortly after the flush, however, this is still a sign of damage and a waste of water. Repairing your toilet is a temporary fix, but installing a new one will ensure this issue does not keep happening.
4. Trouble Flushing, Clogged or Overflowing
If your toilet has trouble flushing, gets clogged a lot, or constantly overflows, your toilet likely has low water levels which is commonly due to clogged pipes, or dated hardware in your toilet. Having your toilet inspected will determine the cause, but installing a new toilet will ensure that your pipes are clean and your hardware is functioning properly.
5. Wobbly Toilet
If you begin to notice that your toilet seems unstable and wobbly, hire a handyman to ensure that all parts are tightened. If the problem persists, the root of the problem is most likely from the floor underneath your toilet. Slow leaks over time will cause the floor beneath your toilet to become damp and rot resulting in a soft surface in which your toilet is resting upon. Hiring a plumber to diagnose the issue can become costly versus installing a new toilet to ensure slow leaks do not continue.
6. Round Toilet Bowl
Replacing your dated, round toilet bowl with a more modern elongated bowl will increase your comfort and cleanliness and will also allow fewer odours to escape. Take a look at new styles now and contact a plumber to help you with installation.
7. High Water Bill
As a result of the issues mentioned above, older or broken toilets need to work harder to complete their job, in-turn using more water. If you notice that your water bill is unusually high, have your toilet inspected today. Installing a new toilet can save you money on your water bill.
If you notice any of these signs, consult a plumber to find out what the best option for your toilet is. Installing a new toilet will protect your home, save you money, and add value to your bathroom. With a relatively low cost and speedy installation, stop worrying about future leaks and repair costs and have a new toilet installed today.
Article updated June 9, 2022.
