Replacing A Toilet

Replacing a toilet may seem like a tough task but it isn't nearly as impossible as it might seem. This is not necessarily a beginners project but it is not an expert one either.

Step 1

First you need to shut off the water supply. Reach behind the toilet and close the valve. Flush the toilet and hold the handle in the down position to allow the water to drain. Use a sponge or old towel to soak up any remaining water.

Step 2

Reach into the toilet tank and unthread the connector that holds the water supply line in place. Disconnect the line from the tank.

Step 3

Remove the tank from the toilet bowl by unscrewing the bolt on the inside of the tank. You will need to hold the nut on the outside of the tank with pliers. Place the tank and its lid in a safe position where it cannot get knocked over if you plan on re-using it.

Step 4

Now it is time to remove the bolts at the bottom of the toilet. If they are difficult to remove, you can use a rust penetrate to help free them.

Step 5

It is finally time to remove the toilet. You will need to rock the toilet back and forth a few times to break the seal. After breaking the seal, pull the toilet up and off the flange and place it in a safe place. Stuff an old rag into the open drain to keep gasses out of your home. (Remember this rag. You will need to remove it before installing a new toilet). Using a plastic scraper, remove any plumbers putty or wax gasket that is stuck to the flange. You want a clean connection for the new toilet.

Step 6

Place the new toilet on its side and put a bead of plumbers putty around the base of the toilet. Now place a wax ring on the new toilet and press it down firmly so that it sticks in place.

Step 7

Remove the rag from the pipe. Now pick up your new toilet and align it with the bolt holes on the flange. Carefully lower it into place. Take out a level and make sure the toilet bowl is level. You can level it with shims if needed.

Step8

Place a washer and nut on the flange bolts. Tighten each side a little at a time slowly to keep the new toilet from cracking.

Step9

Now install the tank being sure to use all gaskets included. Tighten the bolts slowly to prevent cracking.

Step 10

Attach the water supply line to the tank being sure to use a thread sealant like Teflon tape on the threads. Turn the water on and check for leaks. If all is well, attach your toilet seat, clean up your mess and you are done. Congratulations you just installed a new toilet.