Installing a new toilet requires some basic plumbing knowledge and tools. Here’s a general step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Note: It’s important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions that come with your specific toilet, as some steps may vary.
- Gather the necessary tools and materials:
- New toilet
- Wax ring with sleeve
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver
- Closet bolts and nuts (if not included with the toilet)
- Level
- Caulk (optional)
- Toilet supply line (if not included with the toilet)
- Prepare the area:
- Shut off the water supply to the existing toilet by turning the shut-off valve clockwise.
- Flush the toilet to remove water from the tank and bowl.
- Use a sponge or towel to soak up any remaining water in the bowl and tank.
- Disconnect the water supply line from the bottom of the tank.
- Remove the old toilet:
- Unscrew the nuts on the closet bolts securing the toilet to the floor. These bolts are located on either side of the toilet base.
- Lift the old toilet straight up and remove it. Be careful as it can be heavy.
- Scrape away the old wax ring residue from the flange (the pipe in the floor) using a putty knife. Ensure the flange is clean and in good condition.
- Install the new wax ring:
- Place the new wax ring with the sleeve onto the flange, ensuring it is centered.
- If the toilet does not have closet bolts attached, insert them into the flange slots.
- Position the new toilet:
- Carefully lower the new toilet onto the wax ring, aligning the holes in the base with the closet bolts.
- Press down firmly on the toilet to compress the wax ring and create a watertight seal.
- Ensure the toilet is level using a level. If it’s not level, use plastic shims to stabilize it.
- Secure the toilet:
- Place washers and nuts onto the closet bolts and hand-tighten them. Be cautious not to overtighten and crack the toilet.
- Alternately tighten the nuts on each side to secure the toilet evenly.
- Trim the excess length of the closet bolts using a hacksaw if necessary.
- Connect the water supply:
- Install a new toilet supply line if the existing one is old or damaged. Connect one end to the shut-off valve and the other end to the toilet tank’s fill valve. Tighten the connections with an adjustable wrench.
- Test the installation:
- Turn on the water supply by opening the shut-off valve.
- Allow the tank to fill, then flush the toilet to check for leaks.
- Inspect the base of the toilet, the connections, and the supply line for any signs of leakage.
- Optional: Caulk around the base:
- If desired, apply a thin bead of caulk around the base of the toilet to create a watertight seal and enhance the appearance. However, some plumbers prefer not to caulk to allow for easier detection of leaks.
That’s a general overview of the toilet installation process. It’s essential to consult the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer of your toilet as there may be slight variations or additional steps. If you’re unsure about any aspect of the installation, it’s recommended to consult a professional plumber.
