More and more homeowners are taking the DIY route when it comes to installing a new toilet. However, it’s important to make sure you’re prepared and follow instructions properly.
Failure to follow instructions could lead to a malfunctioning toilet that causes significant problems down the line. Read on to find out what tools you need to install a new toilet and the steps to follow.
Tools:
If you have already removed your toilet, start at step five of this guide. The first steps are for those who need to remove their existing toilet first. The steps are as follows:
Measuring your existing toilet ensures you purchase a new one that fits the space. After all, you don’t want to waste time and money on something unusable.
Measure the distance from the rear floor toilet bolts to the wall. For reference, the standard distance is usually around 10 to 12 inches.
Turn off the water supply to your toilet before removing anything. You need to locate the stop valve to do this, which is usually attached to your wall. Flush your toilet multiple times whilst holding the handle down for longer. This begins the tank emptying process. The last remnants of your tank water will need to be removed using a bucket and sponge.
Once the tank is empty, unthread the coupling nut that connects the toilet tank to the water supply. Use channel-type pliers if necessary.
First, remove the toilet tank bolts using regular pliers. You can always apply penetrating oil if the bolts are rigid. If you let the oil sit for a while and still can’t remove the bolts, use a hacksaw.
Next, remove the toilet bowl using either locking pliers, a socket wrench, or channel-type pliers. Once again, if the bolts are stuck, use penetrating oil or a hacksaw for ease.
This is perhaps the most unpleasant step in removing an existing toilet. Scrape the wax ring flange off using a putty knife.
You must block the exposed drain using a cloth or rag to prevent sewer gas from stinking out your home.
Remove the rag once you’re ready to insert the new toilet bolts. To secure your toilet in place, rotate each bolt by ¼ of a turn. Secure the bolts in place with plastic keepers, otherwise known as washers, and then the corresponding nuts.
Position the new wax ring around the flange.
Align your new toilet so that the bolts enter the vacant holes on the ring. Once in position, press downwards to secure the toilet in place. Secure the toilet in place using plastic keepers and nuts. Remove the exposed bolt above the nuts using a hacksaw before capping the bolts.
Once the toilet is in place, attach the new water tank. With the flush valve in place, tighten the spud nut on either side of it before capping them with a plastic keeper.
Now it's time to attach the toilet valve to the toilet tank. Position the valve inside the tank and push downwards. Once in position, tighten the locknut on the valve. Only use your hands to tighten the locknut to prevent over-tightening.
Thread rubber washers on each tank bolt before inserting them on the inside of the water tank. Secure the bolt in place with a brass washer and then a hex nut on the other side.
Position the water tank over the toilet bowl. The spud washer needs to hover over the opening for the tank to be positioned correctly. Next, insert the tank bolts through the corresponding holes on the toilet. Then, insert a rubber washer and a brass washer over every bolt, before topping all the bolts off with a wing nut. Ensure all nuts are tightened evenly.
Press the toilet tank down gently from all angles and tighten the toilet nuts where necessary – only using your hands to do so. This is to overcome any slanting or uneven surfaces.
Connect the fill valve and the new water tubing. The water tube usually comes with a coupling nut that allows you to connect these two items. Turn on the main water supply again and look for any leaks.
With all the hard tasks done, it’s time to attach your toilet seat. Simply thread the toilet seat bolts into the holes on the toilet rim and secure them with nuts.
Do you require help installing your new toilet? Contact Plumber To Your Door today at admin@plumbertoyourdoor.com to get a quote or book an appointment. We service Townsville and the surrounds.
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