How to Replace a Toilet

This article will explain the step by step process involved in removing a old toilet and replacing to with a new one.

Toilet Replacement TaskMap - Click to see full size pictures Original source of this article. Shared with permission

Shut Off the Water Supply

Turn the supply valve clockwise

Thing you will need

Wrench

Toilet Replacement TaskMap - Click to see full size pictures Original source of this article. Shared with permission

Flush the Toilet to Drain the Water

Hold the lever up to flush as much of the water out of the tank as possible

Disconnect the Water Supply From the Tank Base

Turn the fitting counter clockwise. When unthreaded, gently pull down on the supply line.

Thing you will need

Nylon or Brass fitting
Wrench

Remove the Tie Down Nuts at the Toilet Bowl Base

To do this you must first pry up the caps covering the tie down nuts.

Thing you will need

Wrench
Plastic Caps
Screwdriver
Tie Down Nuts

Remove the Tank Lid

Place it where it will not get knocked over.

Thing you will need

Tank Lid

Lift the Bowl to Detach It From the Floor

Be sure to keep the bowl level to prevent spilling trapped water.
Scrape any wax off the flange on the floor.
Place a rag inside the flange to prevent sewer gases from escaping into the bathroom

Place Seal Around Hole in Bottom / Outside of Tank.

The flat side faces the toilet
Remove the rag from the flange

Things you will need

Seal

Place Tank on Base

Toilet Replacement TaskMap - Click to see full size pictures Original source of this article. Shared with permission

Insert Bolts Through Tank and Base, Then Tighten

Be sure not to overtighten these bolts too much or tank with crack.

Things you will need

Wrench

Ensure Flange Is Tight to Floor

If the flange is not tight on the floor it may be necessary to remove the old wax ring. Tighten or replace the flange screws if necessary

Install the Flange Bolts

Things you will need

Flange bolts

Position the Wax Ring on the Flange

Lower Toilet Onto Flange

In order to properly seat the toilet onto the flange push down with one hand on each side of bowl.

Install Washers and Nuts

Slowly hand tighten these nuts on each side of bowl to ensure proper seating of the toilet onto the flange.

Install the Caps

Things you will need

Caps

Reconnect the Water Line.

Things you will need

Wrench

Turn on Water Supply.

Rotate the valve counterclockwise

Check for Leaks

If there are from the tank go back to step 9. if there are any leaks from the base, go back to step 10. If there are any leaks from the water source go back to step 16

Toilet Replacement TaskMap - Click to see full size pictures Original source of this article. Shared with permission