Tips for Installing a New Toilet

Installing a new toilet can be a tough project-if you don’t have the right tools and techniques to get the job done right. Don’t spend a fortune on hiring a plumber to install your new toilet. Use this guide to installing a new toilet and get the most out of your bathroom space.

Removing the Old Toilet

This is the easiest part of the job, but it should be done with care. First, turn off the water supply to the toilet and disconnect the valve using a crescent wrench. Flush the toilet a few times to remove all of the water from the tank and toilet bowl. Use a sponge to sop up any leftover water in the bowl and tank.

Now use the crescent wrench to remove the two bolts that hold the toilet down to the floor. You may also need to cut the caulk that binds the toilet bowl to the floor. Gently rock the toilet back and forth to break the wax ring seal that holds the toilet to the drain pipe. Lift the toilet up and take it out of the bathroom.

Using an old rag, plug up the drain pipe to prevent any tools or materials from falling down the drain. A small throw away plastic spackling knife is needed to remove the old wax ring. Scrape away all of the leftover mess and toss in the trash.

Installing the New Toilet

You’ll need to buy a new wax ring to install on the drain pipe. Most toilet installation guides tell you to install the wax ring to the bottom of the toilet, and then lower it onto the drain pipe. It’s much easier to install the wax ring onto the drain first.

Place the two new toilet bowl bolts in the center of the drain and place the wax ring onto the center of the drain. You can now carefully lower the new toilet onto the drain and wax ring using the two bolts as a guide. Having a friend help you lower the toilet makes this job a whole lot easier.

Sit on the toilet to help secure the wax ring to the bottom of the toilet, but be sure not to rock back and forth or you may ruin the wax ring. Tighten the two bolts carefully and don’t over tighten or you could crack the ceramic.

Hook up the water supply and test for leaks. You may need to adjust the valve in the tank with a Phillips head screwdriver to ensure the water level is appropriate.