Replacing a toilet might seem daunting, but with the right tools and a little patience, it's a DIY project many homeowners can tackle. This comprehensive guide will walk you through each step, ensuring a smooth and successful toilet replacement. We'll cover everything from turning off the water to connecting the new toilet, minimizing disruption and maximizing your success.
Before You Begin: Preparation is Key
Before you even think about touching your old toilet, take these crucial preparatory steps:
1. Gather Your Tools and Materials:
- New Toilet: Choose a toilet that fits your bathroom's style and space. Consider features like height, water efficiency (look for WaterSense certified toilets), and bowl shape.
- Adjustable Wrench: For tightening and loosening various connections.
- Channel-Lock Pliers: Useful for stubborn nuts and bolts.
- Putty Knife: To remove old wax ring and caulk.
- Plumber's Putty: To create a watertight seal around the toilet base.
- New Wax Ring: This creates a crucial seal between the toilet and the drain flange.
- Bucket and Rags: For containing water and cleaning up spills.
- Level: To ensure your new toilet sits perfectly level.
- Safety Glasses: Protect your eyes from debris and splashing water.
- Optional: Toilet flange repair kit: If your existing flange is damaged or corroded.
2. Turn Off the Water Supply:
Locate the shut-off valves behind the toilet. These are usually located on the wall behind the toilet. Turn these valves clockwise until they are completely shut off. Flush the toilet once to relieve any pressure in the tank.
3. Disconnect the Water Supply Line:
Use an adjustable wrench to carefully disconnect the water supply line from the toilet tank. Have a bucket handy to catch any remaining water.
Removing the Old Toilet
1. Disconnect the Toilet from the Floor:
Carefully remove the nuts securing the toilet to the floor. These are usually located under the toilet. Once these are removed, the toilet should be free to lift.
2. Separate the Toilet from the Drain:
This is where the wax ring comes into play. You'll likely need to gently rock the toilet back and forth to break the seal. Be prepared for some water spillage. Carefully remove the old wax ring, cleaning the toilet flange thoroughly. If the flange is damaged, repair or replace it before proceeding.
3. Remove the Old Toilet:
With the connections severed, carefully lift and remove the old toilet. Dispose of it responsibly according to local regulations.
Installing the New Toilet
1. Inspect the Drain Flange:
Ensure the flange is securely attached to the floor and is level. If damaged, use a flange repair kit.
2. Apply the Wax Ring:
Carefully apply the new wax ring to the bottom of the toilet drain opening. Ensure it's centered and evenly distributed.
3. Position the New Toilet:
Carefully lower the new toilet onto the drain flange, making sure it sits squarely and evenly.
4. Secure the Toilet to the Floor:
Tighten the bolts that secure the toilet to the floor, but don't over-tighten.
5. Reconnect the Water Supply Line:
Carefully attach the water supply line to the toilet tank, ensuring a tight connection.
6. Connect the Toilet to the Drain:
Ensure a watertight seal has been created between the toilet and the drain.
7. Test the Flush:
Turn on the water supply and flush the toilet several times to check for leaks.
Finishing Touches
Once everything is functioning correctly, you can apply caulk around the base of the toilet to create a seamless and watertight finish. Clean up any excess caulk and debris, leaving your newly installed toilet looking pristine.
This comprehensive guide should make replacing your toilet a manageable project. Remember safety first, and don't hesitate to seek professional help if you encounter any unexpected difficulties. Good luck!
