You Can Install Your Own New Toilet
For those of you considering replacing your toilet and doing it yourself, I have three words: GO FOR IT! It’s easy to replace. While they can be heavy and somewhat awkward to handle, having two people makes the installation process much easier. I installed the Glacier Bay one-piece dual flush toilet, which uses 1.1 gallons per flush for liquids and 1.6 gallons for solids. I’m excited about the water savings! The installation went smoothly, and I had some help with the heavy lifting. Toilets can last a lifetime if you keep replacing parts, but here’s my advice: if it’s twenty years old, replacing it is a great idea. Below is a complete list of instructions on installing your new toilet.
Proper preparation is Always The First Step to A Smooth Installation
Installing your own toilet can be a straightforward DIY project if you follow these steps carefully. Proper preparation is always the first step to a smooth and successful installation. This involves gathering all necessary materials and tools and familiarizing yourself with the installation process while making sure you have a clear workspace. By preparing adequately, you can prevent common issues and make the task more manageable. Replacing your it can be a rewarding and cost-effective home improvement project with the right approach. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process and ensure everything goes smoothly from start to finish.
Materials and Tools Needed:
- A new toilet (bowl and tank). Many brands include a wax ring and toilet flange bolts.
- Wax ring or rubber gasket
- Toilet flange bolts
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver
- Level
- Putty knife
- Plumber’s tape
- Sponge or towel
- Bucket
- Hacksaw (if needed to trim bolts)
- New shutoff valve
- New Water Supply Line
Step-by-Step Installation:
1. Remove the Old Toilet:
Turn off the water supply to the toilet. The shutoff valve is usually located behind the toilet near the floor.
Caution: Oftentimes, the shutoff valves have not been turned off for years and tend to leak when turned off. Be prepared for a leaky shutoff valve. It’s a good idea to add a couple of drops of penetrating oil or WD-40 before turning the knob. If your toilet is old, it’s a good idea to replace the shutoff valve when you replace the toilet.
2. Remove the Water:
Flush the toilet to drain as much water as possible. Use a sponge or towel to soak up any remaining water in the tank and bowl.
3. Disconnect Water Supply:
Disconnect the water supply line from the toilet tank. If the nut is tight, use a wrench to loosen it, and have a towel ready to catch any residual water that may spill out.
Reminder: Purchase a new water supply line when you purchase your toilet.
4. Remove the Bolts:
Remove the closet bolts holding the toilet to the floor. These are usually covered with caps, which can be pried off.
Caution: These bolts have been fastened to for many years. Sometimes, the toilet is loose, and some bolts might be difficult to remove.
5. Remove the Toilet
Rock the toilet gently to break the seal of the old wax ring and lift it off the flange. Place it aside on a protective surface.
6. Clean the Area:
Using a putty knife, scrape away the old wax ring from the flange, making sure to remove all residue. Clean and inspect the area for the new toilet.
7. Prepare the New Toilet:
Install the new toilet closet bolts into the flange, aligning them securely. Place the new wax ring (or rubber gasket) onto the bottom of the toilet bowl outlet.
Caution: Things can get tricky, especially if you’re an average DIY installing a toilet for the first time. The weight of it varies based on several factors, including the material, design, and size. Typically, a standard toilet weighs between 35 and 90 pounds (15 to 41 kilograms). However, this range is not absolute, as different types can have varying weights. So it’s important to have a helper during this process.
8. Install the New Toilet:
Carefully lower the toilet bowl onto the flange, securing the bolts that come through the holes in the base of the toilet. Press down firmly to seal the wax ring.
9. Washers and Nuts
Install washers and nuts onto the flange bolts. Tighten them evenly to avoid cracking the porcelain. Use a level to ensure the toilet is seated properly.
Caution: Sometimes, the bolts are too long and require a hacksaw to trim them down to size. Once you trim them, cover them with bolt caps.
10. Install the Toilet Tank:
Place the rubber gasket onto the bottom of the tank outlet (if it’s a two-piece toilet). Your instructions will provide you with all the details.
11. Position the Tank:
Position the tank onto the bowl, aligning the bolts with the holes. Once aligned, gently lower the tank and press down to secure the rubber gasket between the tank and the bowl for a watertight seal.
12. Secure the Tank:
Secure the tank to the bowl using the provided nuts and washers. Tighten carefully to avoid over-tightening and cracking the porcelain.
13. Connect the Water Supply:
Reattach the water supply line to the tank fill valve. Use the plumber’s tape on the threads to guarantee a good seal.
14. Turn on the Water:
Turn on the water supply and let the tank fill. Check for leaks around the supply line and at the base of the toilet.
16. Final Adjustments:
Once the tank is full, flush it a few times to check for proper operation and any leaks. Pay close attention to the base and connections for any signs of water, and tighten any bolts or connections if necessary to make sure everything is secure.
17. Wobbly Toilet:
If it wobbles, use shims to level it, and then trim the shims with a utility knife. After trimming, apply caulk around the base to hide the shims and secure in place.
19. Calking:
Caulk around the base of the toilet for a finished look and to prevent water from getting under it. Use waterproof caulk to ensure durability and maintain a clean, neat appearance.
Tips:
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions specific to your toilet model. This will help in proper installation and maintenance, as well as prevent potential damage or voiding of the warranty.
Consult a Professional:
If you encounter significant issues with the flange or plumbing, consulting a professional plumber is advisable. Following these steps should allow you to install your new toilet successfully. However, if you’re hesitant about taking on this project or run into difficulties, don’t worry—your Big B’s Plumbing specialist is here to help. It’s perfectly okay if you prefer not to install it yourself. Big B’s Plumber for Life #986152
You’ll be thrilled with your new toilet. Remember, if it’s over twenty years old, it’s definitely time for an upgrade. You won’t regret making the change! Replacing old toilets can improve water efficiency and your bathroom’s appearance and provide a more reliable fixture for years.
