When to Replace Your Toilet — And the One We Recommend

Linek Plumbing Company

For many homeowners, the toilet is one of those fixtures you don’t think much about—until it starts causing problems. Whether it’s frequent clogs, a constantly running tank, or unexplained water around the base, a failing toilet can be more than just a nuisance. It can waste water, increase utility costs, and in some cases, damage your floors or subflooring.

At Linek Plumbing Company, we’re often called out to fix recurring toilet issues, and one of the most common questions we get is: “Should I just replace it?” The answer depends on a few factors, but in many cases, the answer is yes—especially if the toilet is more than 15 or 20 years old.

When Should You Replace a Toilet?

There are three clear signs that your toilet is ready to be replaced:

First, if you’re frequently plunging, the toilet may no longer be able to clear the bowl effectively—either due to outdated design or internal wear. Constant clogs aren’t just inconvenient; they’re a sign that your fixture isn’t keeping up with modern performance standards.

Second, leaks and hairline cracks, particularly in the tank or base, can be a red flag. A toilet that leaks at the base may be suffering from a failed wax ring or, worse, a cracked flange or bowl. Ignoring this can lead to water damage in the surrounding flooring and subfloor.

Finally, even if your toilet still works, age alone can justify a replacement. Older toilets tend to use significantly more water per flush—sometimes up to 3.5 gallons, compared to today’s standard of 1.28–1.6 gallons. A modern, high-efficiency toilet will save water with every flush, reducing your utility bill and environmental impact over time.

Read other frequently asked questions about toilet repair and installation.

Our Recommendation: The American Standard Cadet Pro

We’ve worked with many toilet brands over the years, but one model we consistently recommend is the American Standard Cadet Pro. It’s a favorite among our plumbers for its reliability, performance, and ease of service.

What sets the Cadet Pro apart is its combination of powerful flush performance and water efficiency. It’s designed with a larger trapway and flush valve than many builder-grade toilets, which means it clears the bowl more effectively—helping eliminate the common complaint of double flushing. The materials and build quality are solid, and it’s backed by a manufacturer that consistently puts out plumber-friendly products.

It’s also versatile: the Cadet Pro comes in multiple configurations, allowing homeowners to choose between elongated or round bowls and between standard or comfort height.

Choosing the Right Style: Bowl Shape and Height

When selecting a new toilet, homeowners are often surprised to learn how much of a difference the bowl shape and seat height can make.

Elongated bowls provide a bit more sitting room and are generally considered more comfortable for adult users. Round bowls are more compact and ideal for tight spaces—like half baths or powder rooms.

As for height, comfort height toilets (sometimes called “right height”) sit about two inches taller than standard models. This small change makes a big difference, especially for older adults, tall individuals, or anyone with mobility concerns. Many customers say they’ll never go back once they’ve switched to comfort height.

Why a Professional Installation Matters

Toilet installation might seem straightforward, but we’ve seen plenty of DIY installs go sideways—resulting in slow leaks, wobbly bases, or improperly sealed connections. When Linek Plumbing Company installs a toilet, we ensure every connection is secure, the wax ring is seated properly, and the base is level and sealed. We’ll even haul away the old unit and dispose of it responsibly.

For us, it’s not just about replacing a toilet — it’s about upgrading your daily experience and giving you peace of mind that the job is done right.

Thinking About Replacing Your Toilet? Let’s Talk.

If your toilet is showing signs of age, poor performance, or water waste, let us help you choose the right replacement. The American Standard Cadet Pro is a reliable workhorse that performs well for nearly any home, and we’ll make the installation process simple and stress-free.

Ready to upgrade? Give Linek Plumbing Company a call. We’re here to help—no pressure, no sales pitch, just plumbing done right.

Request service today.