How to Install a Toilet
- By: Amer ZaghloulehToiletsComment: 0
If your toilet clogs frequently, has visible cracks or scratches or uses too much water when flushing, then it may be time to replace it. But, before you reach out to your phone to call the plumbers in, consider doing it by yourself. Installing a toilet may seem like an intimidating task, but with the right tools and a few hours of your day, it can turn into a fun DIY project.
Here’s what you’ll need.
Turn Off the Water and Disconnect the Supply Line
Before anything, turn the water off and flush the toilet to drain all the water. If there’s still water in the bowl, use a plunger to force it down the drain. Then, clean the tank with a sponge.
Use an adjustable wrench to disconnect the supply water line. If the line has never been disconnected before, then you may need to use a bit of heavy-duty lubricant to remove any corrosion and loosen the connection points.
Remove the Old Toilet
If you have a partner, then you can remove the toilet by lifting both the tank and bowl at the same time. But, if you’re working alone, then it will be easier to disconnect and remove the tank from the bowl first and then remove the nuts on the bolts that secure the bowl to the floor. If the two parts can’t be separated, it’s better to wait until you can find someone to help you and avoid any accidents.
Remove Old Caulk
If you meet any resistance while trying to remove the bowl, check to see if there’s caulking around the base. Use a utility knife to scrape it until you can lift the bowl, then clean the remaining caulking off the floor.
Check the State of the Bowl Bolts and the Flange
If the bolts are rusted, then you need to replace them before you can install the new toilet.
Carefully inspect the flange too. If you notice any cracks, use a flange repair ring to replace it.
Install a Toilet Wax Ring
Place the wax ring on the flange and gently press on it. Lift the bowl and position it over the flange with the closet bolts and lower the base onto the ring. Place the bowl down on the ring steadily and without moving or twisting it. Just apply gentle but firm pressure until the bawl’s base rests on the floor.
Bolt the New Toilet to the Floor
Place a washer and nut on each bowl bolt and tighten them evenly. Make sure not to over-tighten them and crack the porcelain.
Connect the New Tank
Place the tank onto the bowl, making sure that the shank of the bolts and the holes in the bowel is in line. Secure the tank to the bowl, reconnect the supply line and turn the water back on.
And, that’s it! You’re done!
If it looks like a complicated task, then you can always rely on the professionals at Anytime Plumbing for all your plumbing needs.
Call us now at 831-431-6593.
