Replacing a toilet may seem daunting, but it can be fairly simple. Is your old toilet giving you trouble? Are you tired of calling in a plumber every time it needs repair?
It’s time to replace that old toilet with a new one! Replacing a toilet may seem hassel, but it can be done quickly and easily with the right tools and step-by-step guidance. Here we will provide expert tips on how to replace a toilet yourself.
We’ve got you covered, from gathering the necessary tools to securing the new toilet bowl to the flange. With our guide, you can swap out your old toilet for a new one in no time, saving both money and time.
Expert Tips On How To Replace A Toilet
If you want to replace your old toilet with a new one, follow these expert tips for a job well done. Gather all necessary tools, such as an adjustable wrench, screwdriver, hacksaw, putty knife, sponge, rag, caulk gun, and gloves. Shut off the water supply valve and flush the toilet to remove any remaining water. Here is the process of how to replace a toilet.
1. Gather Necessary Tools
Before replacing a toilet, homeowners should gather all the necessary tools to ensure efficiency. These tools include a wrench, pliers, putty knife, and hacksaw or reciprocating saw for removing bolts or cutting old caulk.
Wearing protective gloves and goggles is also recommended when handling tools during this DIY project. Having these items at hand before starting the replacement process is essential to avoid wasting time and experiencing unnecessary frustration. Along with these general tips, it is crucial to follow specific instructions detailed in individual steps.
2. Shut Off Water Supply
Before you start replacing your toilet, shutting off the water supply by locating the shutoff valve behind or near your old toilet and turning it clockwise is crucial. If there isn’t any shutoff valve, you’ll have to shut off your home’s main water supply. Don’t forget to flush your toilet a few times after shutting off the water supply to drain any remaining water from your tank and bowl.
3. Drain Toilet Tank
Before removing an old toilet during DIY plumbing projects like Replacing it,’ it’s crucial to drain the toilet tank completely. Start by turning off the water supply valve and flushing the toilet to eliminate as much water as possible.
Next, use a sponge or towel or a wet-dry vacuum to soak up excess water from the bowl and trap way. Draining the toilet tank will help you avoid creating a watery mess when replacing your porcelain throne with a new one.
4. Disconnect Water Supply Line
After draining the toilet tank, use pliers or a wrench to disconnect the water supply line from the bottom of the tank. Ensure you have a bucket or towel handy to catch any excess water that may spill while working.
Also, remember to get rid of the remaining water from both the bowl and tank before removing bolts that attach your existing toilet to your bathroom floor. After carefully lifting off your old toilet, replace it with a new one while ensuring that you securely mount it in place using new bolts.
5. Loosen Toilet Bolts
When replacing a toilet, you’ll need to know how to loosen its bolts. First, turn off the water supply and drain the toilet bowl completely. Next, use a wrench to carefully loosen the nuts on the bolts securing your old toilet in place.
If they’re stuck or corroded, try using some penetrating oil to help free them up. Be cautious when lifting off your old porcelain throne – you don’t want to damage anything! Once it’s removed, clean off any remaining wax from the flange before installing your new wax ring.
6. Remove Old Toilet
Removing an old toilet is crucial in replacing it with a new one, especially when doing it yourself. Start by turning off the water supply and draining both the tank and bowl completely. Then, use a putty knife or scraper to detach any old wax or caulk from around the base of your existing toilet.
Disconnect its water supply line and loosen its bolts from its fixtures’ floor anchors before lifting it carefully onto a drop cloth or trash bag for disposal, ensuring you don’t forget to dispose of any old wax rings correctly.
7. Clean Toilet Flange
Before installing a new toilet bowl in your bathroom DIY project, it’s important to clean the toilet flange thoroughly. Use a scraper or putty knife to remove any old wax or debris from the area surrounding the flange.
Once you’ve cleaned it up nicely with disinfectant and ensured that it is level and secure, you can safely install your new porcelain throne without worrying about leaks or wobbling. Remember to dispose of any waste materials properly so that you don’t have to call in a plumber anytime soon.
8. Install New Wax Ring
Installing a new wax ring is an essential step in replacing a toilet. To ensure a secure fit between the base of the toilet and drain pipe, follow these steps: choose an appropriately-sized wax ring; remove any old residue from both flange and toilet base; center and lower toilet onto wax rings; fit securely over bolts then tighten nuts without overtightening to avoid cracking porcelain.
9. Place New Toilet Bowl
It’s time to place the new toilet bowl after properly cleaning and preparing the flange, installing the new wax ring, and aligning the bolts. Carefully lower the toilet onto the wax ring while twisting slightly until it settles into place.
Tighten each bolt alternately with an adjustable wrench to avoid any porcelain cracking or damage to the gasket. Use plastic shims to prevent rocking or unevenness on the flooring or subfloor. Finally, attach the tank to complete your DIY plumbing project with confidence.
10. Secure Toilet Bowl To Flange
For securing the toilet bowl to the flange, it’s essential to use a wax ring or an alternate sealing method like a putty knife or rubber gasket to avoid leaks and ensure a tight fit. Once done, tighten the closet bolts using an adjustable wrench or pliers evenly and securely. After installation, always double-check for any leaks using a hacksaw or screwdriver.
Safety Precautions To Keep In Mind When Replacing A Toilet
Replacing a toilet may seem simple, but it’s important to remember safety precautions to avoid injury or damage. First and foremost, turn off the water supply and flush the toilet to empty the tank and bowl before beginning any work.
Additionally, wear protective gloves and eyewear to prevent injuries from broken pieces or harsh chemicals. When removing the old toilet, be careful not to strain your back by lifting it incorrectly or causing it to tip over.
It’s also important to properly dispose of the old toilet, as it can be quite heavy and difficult to maneuver. Finally, when installing the new toilet, follow all instructions carefully and securely fasten all parts before turning on the water supply. By following these safety precautions, you can ensure a successful and safe toilet replacement project.
Conclusion
Replacing a toilet may seem daunting, but it can be done quickly and easily with the right tools and knowledge. Remember to shut off the water supply, drain the tank, disconnect the water supply line, and loosen the bolts before removing the old toilet. Clean the flange and install a new wax ring before placing the new toilet bowl and securing it to the flange.
With these expert tips on how to replace a toilet, you can replace your toilet in no time. However, it is always best to consult a professional plumber if you are struggling or unsure of any step in this process. Good luck with your DIY project.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Replace The Toilet Myself?
Replacing a toilet yourself is possible, but it requires careful preparation and following the manufacturer’s instructions. Remember to turn off the water supply, remove the old toilet, install the new wax seal, attach the new bowl and tank, connect the water supply, and check for leaks.
How Easy Is It To Replace A Toilet?
Replacing a toilet can be simple for those with some plumbing experience, but the difficulty depends on factors like plumbing setup and the age of the current toilet. Ensure safety by turning off the water supply before starting.
How Much Does A Plumber Charge To Replace A Toilet?
The cost of hiring a plumber to replace a toilet can vary depending on the job’s complexity and location. On average, it ranges from $150-$500. While DIY installation can save money, basic plumbing knowledge and safety precautions are necessary. Consider hiring a professional if unsure or encountering problems during installation.
What’s The Best Way To Replace A Toilet?
Replacing a toilet involves turning off the water supply, disconnecting the water line, removing bolts, securing it to the floor, and replacing the old wax ring with a new one. Secure the new toilet to the floor with bolts, attach the water supply, and check for leaks.
How Hard Is It To Replace A Toilet?
Replacing a toilet can be moderately challenging for a DIY project. Basic plumbing skills and tool knowledge are required. And the difficulty level may vary depending on the condition of the existing plumbing. Hiring a professional plumber is advisable if you are uncertain about the task.
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