In this report
Overview
August 2009 Recommended
August 2009 Ratings
How to choose
Can this toilet be saved?
Also in This Issue
This article was featured in the August 2009 issue of Consumer Reports magazine.

Can this toilet be saved?

Last reviewed: August 2009

This article is the archived version of a report that appeared in August 2009 Consumer Reports magazine.

Toilets installed before 1995 consume 3.5 gallons or more per flush and should be replaced instead of repaired if broken. But most 1.6-gallon models are worth fixing unless the bowl is cracked.

 

Problem Running toilet and "phantom" flushes.
Repair Replace flapper or fill valve or both.
DIY cost $5 to $15.
Pro repair $100 and up.

 

Problem Wobbly toilet.
Repair Replace flange or wax ring or both, though repair isn't easy for novices.
DIY cost $30 to $40.
Pro repair $300 and up.

 

Problem Leaking toilet.
Repair New water-supply connections; replace tank- to-bowl gasket and bolts.
DIY cost $10 to $30.
Pro repair $180 and up.