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November 29, 2021

How to Install a Toilet in Your Home

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If you're in the mood to renovate the bathroom or you're dealing with leaks coming from the commode, it may be time to replace your toilet. It doesn't matter if you choose a no-name option from a local retailer or select one of the more popular toilet brands; toilets are simple fixtures that just take some know-how to install. Fortunately, toilet installation can be simple if you have the right tools for the job and take your time completing each step.

Gather Tools and Supplies

Before you start tearing apart your bathroom, gather the tools and materials you need for the job. You need an adjustable wrench, a set of pliers, a set of screwdrivers, a hacksaw and a putty knife. Keep a bucket, gloves and sponges nearby because you're working near water. You'll also need caulk, a caulk gun, a wax ring, a toilet flange and the supply line.

Remove the Old Toilet

Unless you're doing a new toilet installation in a brand new house, you need to remove the old one. Turn off the water supply to the toilet and flush the toilet to get rid of the water in the bowl and tank. You may need to use a plunger to push the water out of the bowl. Disconnect the supply line from the toilet. This line most likely has a small amount of water inside, so be prepared to catch it in a bucket or with a towel.

It's possible to keep the toilet intact as you lift it, but you may need some help. If you're working alone, you can separate the tank from the bowl so that it's easier to pick up and carry the toilet components out of the room. There are two sets of bolts you need to remove: the ones that attach the tank to the lower part of the toilet and the ones that hold the toilet in place on the floor. If the toilet has caulk sealing the seam at the floor, use a putty knife to loosen it. Then you can lift the toilet off the floor using a gentle rocking motion until it's free.

Prepare the Floor for the New Toilet

With the toilet removed, you have a good opportunity to check the floor bolts and flange. Replace the bolts if they're too rusted or if you had to cut them to remove the toilet. Inspect the flange for signs of damage. You can repair this using a kit from the plumbing section of a hardware store or replace it completely. Then you can insert a wax ring in the bottom of the toilet or on top of the flange. This ring seals the toilet to prevent leaks.

Put the New Toilet in Place

Follow the removal steps in reverse to put the new toilet in place. Start by placing it on the flange, making sure the bolts go through the bolt holes. Then apply pressure to seal the toilet and the wax ring. You may want to sit on the toilet to add some extra weight. Just be careful about moving it too much so you don't break the flange.

Secure the bottom of the toilet to the floor by twisting wing nuts over the floor bolts. If the tank is separated from the bowl, inspect it to see if the gaskets are already in place. You may need to insert gaskets before attaching the tank. When attaching the tank, line up the bolts with the bolt holes. Tighten the bolts one at a time to help keep the tank level.

Reconnect the Supply Line

The final step is to reconnect the supply line to the toilet. This is a good time to replace the supply line if it's old or is difficult to connect because of hard water buildup. Use an adjustable wrench to secure the line. Then you can turn on the water to fill the tank. Flush the toilet a few times. Check carefully for leaks at the point where the tank and bowl meet and at the floor.

You may need to make minor adjustments to the toilet after you install it. One common issue with toilets is the water level in the tank. A toilet fill valve adjustment is fairly easy to do. You should see a screw attached to the float arm. Turn this clockwise to raise the water level in the tank and counterclockwise to lower it until you get the amount of water you need to flush the toilet.

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