Replace an old, leaky toilet with these simple steps.
Removing an old toilet and installing a new one isn’t as difficult as it might seem.
Most DIYers with a bit of plumbing knowledge should be able to tackle this job.
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Alternatively, you could take apart a two-piece toilet and carry one piece at a time.
Use this guide to learn how to replace a toilet.
Similarly, an experienced DIYer can replace a faulty flush valve or fill valve without much difficulty.
Taking proper measurements ensures that the new toilet will fit in the bathroom.
If the measurements are incorrect, the toilet might not fit properly.
Place the new toilet on a towel until it is needed to prevent it from scraping the floor.
You should also have a few rags on hand to clean the floor after removing the old toilet.
Turn off this valve to shut down the flow of water to the toilet.
Then flush the toilet to drain most of the water.
Unscrew the Bolts and Remove the Toilet
Locate the bolts on either side of the toilet.
These bolts are currently holding the toilet in place.
Use an adjustable wrench or a set of channel lock pliers to unscrew the bolts.
When the toilet is free, lift the toilet away from the floor.
This may require two people depending on the DIYer’s strength and the toilets weight.
Wrap the base of the toilet with an old towel or garbage bag and carry it outside.
If you are completing this repair alone, remove the toilet tank before removing the base.
Accomplish this by unscrewing the tank bolts and lifting the tank off the bowl to separate the two pieces.
Inspect the flange and replace it if it is cracked or otherwise damaged.
If the flange is in good condition, it can be reused.
Clean the flange and the surrounding area with an old cloth or rag before proceeding.
This also blocks the hole to prevent tools from falling in.
Replace the Toilet Bolts
Check the existing toilet bolts.
If the new toilet did not come with toilet bolts, you much purchase these parts separately.
implement the New Wax Ring
A wax ring seals the connection between the toilet and the drain.
Finish tightening the bolts with a wrench or channel lock pliers.
Wipe away any metal filings to avoid metal splinters.
If you disconnected the toilet tank before installing the toilet bowl, put the pieces back together now.
Tighten new nuts onto the bolts to secure the connection.
Next, connect the incoming water supply line to the base of the toilet tank.
Use a set of channel lock pliers or a wrench to tighten the nut until the connection is snug.
After the toilet tank has filled entirely, flush the toilet to ensure it works.
Also, check the floor for any signs that waste water is leaking from the wax seal.
Leave the back of the toilet uncaulked so water can escape if a leak forms.
Install a Toilet Seat
The final step of this job is to roll out the toilet seat.
Ideally, you took measurements ahead of time and purchased a toilet seat that fits the new toilet properly.
Add a washer to each bolt, and tighten new nuts onto the bolts to secure the toilet seat.
