How Do You Replace A Toilet?

How to Replace a Toilet

A toilet is one of the most important fixtures in your home, and when it breaks, it can be a major inconvenience. But replacing a toilet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of replacing a toilet, from start to finish. We’ll provide step-by-step instructions, as well as tips and tricks to make the job easier.

So if you’re ready to learn how to replace a toilet, read on!

Step Instructions Image
1 Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
2 Remove the old toilet.
3 Install the new toilet.
4 Turn the water supply back on.
5 Test the toilet.

Gather Your Materials

Before you begin replacing your toilet, it’s important to gather all of the necessary materials. This will ensure that you have everything you need on hand and that the process goes smoothly.

Here is a list of the materials you will need:

  • New toilet
  • Wax ring
  • Toilet bolts
  • Pliers
  • Tape measure
  • Level
  • Combination/socket wrench
  • Hacksaw
  • Bucket
  • Gloves
  • Plumber’s putty

Disconnect the Old Toilet

Once you have gathered all of your materials, you can begin disconnecting the old toilet. This process is relatively simple, but it is important to be careful not to damage the new toilet.

To disconnect the old toilet, follow these steps:

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet. This is usually located behind the toilet, near the floor.
2. Flush the toilet to empty the water tank.
3. Remove the caps from the water supply valves. These are located on the bottom of the toilet tank, near the back.
4. Use a wrench to loosen the water supply lines.
5. Remove the nuts that connect the toilet to the floor flange.
6. Lift the toilet up and away from the floor.
7. Carefully remove the wax ring from the bottom of the toilet.

Now that the old toilet is disconnected, you can begin installing the new toilet.

Install the New Toilet

Once you have removed the old toilet, you can begin installing the new one. The following steps will guide you through the process:

1. Position the new toilet. Place the new toilet in the same location as the old toilet. Make sure that the toilet is level and that the bolts on the bottom of the toilet are aligned with the holes in the floor.
2. Attach the toilet to the floor. Use the bolts that came with the new toilet to attach it to the floor. Tighten the bolts until they are snug, but do not overtighten them.
3. Connect the water supply line. The water supply line is located on the back of the toilet. Connect the new water supply line to the existing water line. Make sure that the connection is tight and that there are no leaks.
4. Connect the drain line. The drain line is located on the bottom of the toilet. Connect the new drain line to the existing drain line. Make sure that the connection is tight and that there are no leaks.
5. Test the toilet. Once you have connected the water supply line and the drain line, flush the toilet to make sure that it is working properly.

Connect the New Toilet

Once you have installed the new toilet, you will need to connect it to the water supply and the drain. The following steps will guide you through the process:

1. Connect the water supply line. The water supply line is located on the back of the toilet. Connect the new water supply line to the existing water line. Make sure that the connection is tight and that there are no leaks.
2. Connect the drain line. The drain line is located on the bottom of the toilet. Connect the new drain line to the existing drain line. Make sure that the connection is tight and that there are no leaks.
3. Test the toilet. Once you have connected the water supply line and the drain line, flush the toilet to make sure that it is working properly.

Replacing a toilet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. By following these steps, you can easily replace your old toilet with a new one.

How do I replace a toilet?

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet. This is usually located at the back of the toilet, underneath the tank. There will be a valve that you can turn to the off position.
2. Flush the toilet to empty the tank. This will help to make the next steps easier.
3. Remove the old toilet. There are two bolts that hold the toilet to the floor. These are located on either side of the toilet, underneath the tank. Use a wrench to loosen the bolts and remove them.
4. Clean the toilet flange. The toilet flange is the metal ring that the toilet sits on. It is important to clean this area before installing the new toilet, as any debris can prevent the toilet from sealing properly.
5. Apply a bead of plumber’s putty around the toilet flange. This will help to create a watertight seal between the toilet and the flange.
6. Position the new toilet over the flange. Make sure that the bolts are lined up with the holes in the toilet.
7. Insert the bolts through the holes in the toilet and tighten them with a wrench. Be careful not to overtighten the bolts, as this can damage the toilet.
8. Connect the water supply to the toilet. Turn the valve to the on position and check for leaks.
9. Flush the toilet to test the new installation. The toilet should be working properly now.

What tools do I need to replace a toilet?

You will need the following tools to replace a toilet:

  • A wrench
  • A screwdriver
  • A putty knife
  • A bucket
  • A pair of gloves

How long does it take to replace a toilet?

The average time to replace a toilet is about 2 hours. However, this can vary depending on the type of toilet and the condition of the existing plumbing.

What is the most difficult part of replacing a toilet?

The most difficult part of replacing a toilet is removing the old toilet. This can be a challenge, especially if the toilet is old and corroded.

What are some common mistakes people make when replacing a toilet?

Some common mistakes people make when replacing a toilet include:

  • Not turning off the water supply to the toilet.
  • Not flushing the toilet before removing it.
  • Not cleaning the toilet flange.
  • Not applying enough plumber’s putty.
  • Overtightening the bolts.
  • Not connecting the water supply properly.

What is the best way to dispose of an old toilet?

The best way to dispose of an old toilet is to take it to a local landfill or recycling center. You can also contact your local waste management company to see if they have any special disposal instructions.

Can I replace a toilet myself?

Yes, you can replace a toilet yourself. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks involved. If you are not comfortable working with plumbing, it is best to hire a professional to do the job.

Replacing a toilet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. However, it is important to follow the proper steps to ensure that the job is done correctly and safely. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can replace your toilet with confidence and peace of mind.

Here are the key takeaways from this guide:

  • Before you begin, make sure you have the necessary tools and materials.
  • Turn off the water supply to the toilet and flush the toilet to drain the water from the tank.
  • Remove the old toilet by disconnecting the water supply line, the drain line, and the toilet bolts.
  • Position the new toilet and attach the water supply line and drain line.
  • Secure the toilet to the floor with the toilet bolts.
  • Turn on the water supply to the toilet and flush the toilet to check for leaks.

By following these steps, you can replace your toilet with ease and confidence.

Author Profile

Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell
Liana Farrell is the owner of toiletty.com. She is a mom of two and is very passionate about home improvement.

Liana has ten years of home improvement experience, and in her own words, she said: “I love improving the home, and I’m very passionate about keeping the home in the best possible condition. I love it!”

Liana Farrell balances beauty and functionality when she goes about her home improvement jobs.