Replacing a Toilet? What You Need to Know Before You Start

Toilets may not be the most glamorous part of your home, but when one stops working or looks outdated, you’ll feel it fast. Whether your toilet is constantly clogging, running, leaking, or simply showing its age, replacing it might be the most practical next step.

At North Peachtree Plumbing, we help Georgia homeowners like you every day with installations and upgrades. But before you grab a wrench or head to the hardware store, here’s what you need to know.

Thinking of Replacing a Toilet? Connect with us and make sure you do it right.

Is It Time to Replace Your Toilet? Signs to Look For

Sometimes the signs are apparent, like a cracked tank or persistent leaks. Other times, the clues are subtle. Here are some of the most common reasons homeowners in Georgia decide it’s time to replace their toilet:

• Constant clogging, even with proper use
• Frequent repairs or worn-out parts
• Cracks in the bowl or tank
• Wobbling or loose base
• Rising water bills due to inefficiency
• An outdated style or color that doesn’t match your bathroom
  

According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), toilets are the primary source of water use in most homes, accounting for nearly 30% of household indoor water consumption. Older toilets can use up to 6 gallons per flush, while newer high-efficiency models use 1.28 gallons or less per flush. If you’re still using an older model, you may be wasting money.

Avoid Costly Mistakes with Smart Toilet Replacement Prep

Installing a toilet may seem simple, but a smooth installation requires planning, the right tools, and attention to detail. Here’s what you should consider:

Know Your Rough-In Measurement

This is the distance between the wall behind your toilet and the center of the drainpipe (or the bolts that secure the toilet to the floor). Most homes in Georgia have a standard 12-inch rough-in, but older homes may have a rough-in of 10 or 14 inches. Measure before you shop to avoid a frustrating return.

Choose the Right Toilet for Your Space

Toilets come in several shapes and sizes. Your choice depends on bathroom space, budget, and personal comfort. Key features to consider:

• Bowl shape: Round bowls are more compact, while elongated bowls offer more comfort.
• Height: Standard toilets are about 15 inches high. “Comfort height” or ADA-compliant toilets are typically 17 to 19 inches high and are easier for seniors or individuals with mobility issues.
• Flush type: Gravity-fed, dual flush, or pressure-assisted. Dual-flush models are popular in Georgia for their water-saving benefits.
  

Check Local Plumbing Codes

Georgia follows the International Plumbing Code (IPC), and your city or county may have additional rules. For example, new installations must meet WaterSense efficiency standards. Working with North Peachtree Plumbing ensures your installation meets all local requirements.

DIY or Call a Pro?

Replacing a toilet seems like a doable weekend project, and it can be, if you’re comfortable with plumbing basics. However, mistakes like poor sealing, unlevel installation, or overtightened bolts can cause costly water damage or leaks.

A licensed plumber can:

• Inspect and replace worn-out flanges or wax rings.
• Confirm that the venting and drain systems are in good condition.
• Prevent floor damage or slow leaks.
• Ensure proper leveling and sealing.
• Haul away and dispose of the old toilet properly.
  

At North Peachtree Plumbing, we’ve installed thousands of toilets across Georgia. Whether you’re upgrading one bathroom or redoing the entire house, we do the job right the first time.

Plumbing Installation Done Right and By the Code

When you work with North Peachtree Plumbing, here’s what the process typically looks like:

Consultation and product selection: We help you pick the right model based on your space, water usage, and comfort needs.

Site prep and removal: We protect your flooring, shut off the water, and remove the old toilet.

Flange and wax seal inspection: We inspect for signs of rot or damage and make necessary repairs.

Installation and testing: The new toilet is securely installed, leveled, sealed, and tested for leaks and proper flush power.

Cleanup and haul-away: We remove all packaging and dispose of your old toilet.

Installations usually take less than two hours. For homeowners with older plumbing, uneven floors, or unique bathroom layouts, we’ll handle adjustments and keep everything code-compliant.

Cost Considerations for Georgia Homeowners

Toilet replacement costs in Georgia typically range between $300 $800, depending on the toilet model, whether repairs are needed, and whether disposal of the old unit is included.

You might consider choosing the cheapest model available, but investing in a high-efficiency toilet (HET) can save you up to $100 per year on your water bill, according to the EPA. Over a decade, that adds up.

Looking to upgrade more than one bathroom? Many homeowners choose to replace multiple toilets at once to take advantage of labor savings.

Environmental Benefits of a Toilet Upgrade

Toilets certified by WaterSense, a partnership between the EPA and manufacturers, use at least 20 percent less water than standard models without sacrificing performance. If your home was built before 1994 and still has its original toilet, replacing it could significantly reduce your water usage.

Georgia’s growing population and hot summers make water conservation a key priority. By replacing your toilet with a WaterSense-certified model, you’re not only saving money, but you’re also helping to protect one of the state’s most valuable resources.

Make Replacing a Toilet Simple and Stress-Free

Whether your current toilet is cracked, leaking, or simply inefficient, replacing it is a smart move that can save money, improve comfort, and enhance the appearance of your bathroom.

But don’t go it alone.

At North Peachtree Plumbing, we’re here to guide you through every step. From picking the right model to fast, professional installation, we make it easy to get the results you want without the mess or stress.

Let’s Talk Toilets: Schedule Your Consultation Today
Ready to upgrade? Our team is just a click away. We’ll answer your questions, recommend the proper toilet for your space, and handle the installation with care.

A better bathroom begins today.