How to Replace a Wax Ring on a Toilet (Step-by-Step Guide)

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How to Change a Wax Ring on a Toilet

A wax ring is a rubber gasket that creates a watertight seal between the toilet and the drainpipe. Over time, the wax ring can deteriorate and leak, causing water damage to your bathroom. If you notice water pooling around the base of your toilet, it’s likely that the wax ring needs to be replaced.

Changing a wax ring is a relatively simple DIY project that can be completed in about 30 minutes. However, it’s important to follow the steps carefully to avoid damaging your toilet.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of changing a wax ring on a toilet. 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 change a wax ring, read on!

Step Instructions Images
1 Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
2 Remove the toilet seat.
3 Locate the wax ring.
4 Gently pry up the wax ring with a putty knife.
5 Apply a new wax ring to the toilet bowl.
6 Reinstall the toilet seat.
7 Turn on the water supply to the toilet.

How to Change a Wax Ring on a Toilet?

A wax ring is a round, rubber gasket that seals the toilet to the drainpipe. It is important to replace a wax ring when it is damaged or worn out, as a leak could occur. This guide will show you how to change a wax ring on a toilet.

Preparing to Change the Wax Ring

Before you begin, gather the necessary tools and materials:

  • New wax ring
  • Putty knife or utility knife
  • Penetrating oil
  • Bucket
  • Gloves
  • Newspaper or towels

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet. This is usually located under the sink or behind the toilet.
2. Flush the toilet to drain the water.
3. Remove the toilet seat. There are usually two screws on the back of the toilet seat that you need to unscrew.
4. Inspect the old wax ring. The wax ring is located between the toilet and the drainpipe. It is a round, black or brown gasket. If the wax ring is cracked, torn, or otherwise damaged, it needs to be replaced.

Removing the Old Wax Ring

5. Carefully pry up the old wax ring with a putty knife or utility knife. Be careful not to damage the toilet bowl.
6. Be careful not to lose any pieces of the old wax ring.
7. Remove any remaining pieces of the old wax ring with a putty knife or utility knife.

Installing the New Wax Ring

8. Apply a thin coat of penetrating oil to the bottom of the new wax ring. This will help the ring to seal properly.
9. Center the new wax ring on the drainpipe.
10. Carefully lower the toilet onto the new wax ring.
11. Tighten the nuts on the toilet bolts until the toilet is secure.
12. Reattach the toilet seat.

Changing a wax ring is a relatively simple task that can be completed in about 30 minutes. By following these steps, you can ensure that your toilet is properly sealed and that you don’t have to worry about leaks.

Here are some additional tips for changing a wax ring:

  • If the old wax ring is stuck, you can try using a hair dryer to heat it up. This will make it easier to remove.
  • If you are having trouble getting the new wax ring to seal properly, you can try using a toilet flange gasket. A toilet flange gasket is a rubber ring that goes between the toilet and the drainpipe. It helps to create a tighter seal and prevents leaks.
  • If you are not comfortable changing the wax ring yourself, you can always hire a plumber to do it for you.

3. Installing the New Wax Ring

Once you have removed the old wax ring, you can install the new one. Here are the steps involved:

1. Apply a thin coat of plumber’s putty to the bottom of the new wax ring. This will help to create a seal between the wax ring and the toilet bowl.
2. Center the new wax ring on the toilet bowl. Make sure that the wax ring is evenly distributed around the toilet bowl.
3. Press down on the new wax ring to create a seal. Be careful not to press too hard, as this could damage the wax ring.

4. Reinstalling the Toilet Seat

Once the new wax ring is installed, you can reinstall the toilet seat. Here are the steps involved:

1. Place the toilet seat back on the toilet.
2. Secure the toilet seat with the bolts and nuts. Make sure that the bolts and nuts are tightened securely, but not too tightly.
3. Turn on the water supply to the toilet.
4. Flush the toilet to test the new wax ring. If the toilet does not leak, then you have successfully replaced the wax ring.

Replacing a wax ring on a toilet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few minutes. By following these steps, you can ensure that your toilet is properly sealed and that it will not leak.

Here are some additional tips for replacing a wax ring on a toilet:

  • Make sure that the toilet is turned off before you begin.
  • Work in a well-lit area so that you can see what you are doing.
  • Use gloves to protect your hands from the wax.
  • If you are not comfortable replacing the wax ring yourself, you can hire a plumber to do it for you.

By following these tips, you can safely and effectively replace the wax ring on your toilet.

How do I know if my wax ring needs to be replaced?

There are a few signs that your wax ring may need to be replaced, including:

  • A slow leak around the base of the toilet
  • Water pooling under the toilet
  • A musty smell coming from the toilet
  • The toilet rocking back and forth when you sit on it

If you notice any of these signs, it’s a good idea to have your wax ring replaced.

What tools do I need to replace a wax ring?

You will need the following tools to replace a wax ring:

  • A new wax ring
  • A putty knife
  • A utility knife
  • A bucket
  • A pair of gloves

How do I remove the old wax ring?

1. Turn off the water supply to the toilet.
2. Flush the toilet to empty the tank.
3. Remove the toilet seat.
4. Use a putty knife to carefully pry up the old wax ring.
5. Be careful not to damage the toilet bowl.
6. Discard the old wax ring.

How do I install the new wax ring?

1. Apply a thin layer of plumber’s putty to the bottom of the toilet bowl.
2. Center the new wax ring on the putty.
3. Carefully lower the toilet onto the wax ring.
4. Turn on the water supply to the toilet.
5. Flush the toilet to test for leaks.

What should I do if I have a leak after replacing the wax ring?

If you have a leak after replacing the wax ring, there are a few things you can check:

  • Make sure the wax ring is properly seated on the toilet bowl.
  • Make sure the toilet is sitting level on the floor.
  • If the leak is still present, you may need to replace the toilet.

How often should I replace the wax ring on my toilet?

The wax ring on your toilet should be replaced every 5 to 10 years. However, you may need to replace it sooner if you notice any of the signs listed above.

Changing a wax ring on a toilet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in about 30 minutes. However, it is important to follow the steps carefully in order to avoid damaging the toilet or creating a leak. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily replace a wax ring and ensure that your toilet is working properly.

Here are the key takeaways from this guide:

  • A wax ring is a seal that creates a watertight seal between the toilet and the drainpipe.
  • Over time, the wax ring can deteriorate and leak.
  • Replacing a wax ring is a relatively simple task that can be completed in about 30 minutes.
  • To replace a wax ring, you will need to remove the old ring, clean the toilet and drainpipe, and install a new ring.
  • It is important to follow the steps carefully in order to avoid damaging the toilet or creating a leak.
  • By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily replace a wax ring and ensure that your toilet is working properly.

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.