SESKStuff Everyone Should Know
SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/home-a-leak-flapper

How often should a toilet flapper be replaced, at minimum, according to EPA WaterSense?

At least every five years.

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  1. Once every 50 years
  2. At least every five years ✔
  3. Never, they last forever

Why: The rubber flapper wears out. WaterSense says check it periodically and replace it at least every five years. An old flapper can make a toilet flush on its own or silently leak thousands of gallons a year.

Huh, didn't know that: Bring the old flapper (or a photo) to the hardware store to match its width and any foam float.

The dad joke
A bad flapper is silent but costly, like a bad poker face.
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References

Answer: At least every five years. The rubber flapper wears out. WaterSense says check it periodically and replace it at least every five years. An old flapper can make a toilet flush on its own or silently leak thousands of gallons a year.

  1. EPA WaterSense: Fix a Leak Week www.epa.gov/watersense/fix-leak-week
    the flapper should be checked periodically and replaced at least every five years to ensure a good seal
    Checked 2026-10-10.

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