How to Replace and Install a Toilet

Toilets can last a long period of time, however, due to general wear and tear, repairs are inevitable. Our plumbers here at Optimised Plumbing Services, have dealt with toilet installation jobs for many years and know exactly how to properly replace and install a toilet. Within this page we will provide useful methods on toilet installation and replacement.

Toilet installation and replacement work often require specific planned thoughts and considerations before entering the project. However, when knowing what to do, the process can be fairly simple and finished in a short amount of time. The basic steps include:

1. Draining the water
2. Removing the toilet
3. Closet flange
4. Testing the new toilet
5. Applying the wax ring
6. Setting the toilet
7. Connecting the plumbing

Tools and Supplies Needed

Here is a list of all the needed equipment to have when entering this guide:

• Bucket
• Adjustable Wrench
• Extra Person/ Helper
• Large Sponge
• Putty Knife
• Plumber’s Putty or Silicone Caulk
• Wax Ring
• Hacksaw Blade
• Closet Flange

Replacement and Installation process

Remember to follow these steps exactly and handle everything with care while not rushing anything.

Draining the Water

The first step is to have all the water removed from the toilet:

• Turn off the main water supply through the water valve
• Flush the toilet to remove current water
• Take off and place aside the tank lid in a safe spot
• Mop/ clean the leftover water in the bowl/ tank through a large sponge. Make sure this water goes into a bucket as well as all water removed from the bowl

Removing the Toilet

Removing the toilet from the mounting bolts should be handled with extreme care and precision:

• Firstly, disconnect the main water supply tube which connects to the tailpiece located on the fill valve on the toilet tank. Do this by using the adjustable wrench, otherwise use the tongue-and-groove pliers
• The plastic or porcelain covered cover caps should be removed. These are on the floor bolts and their purpose is to hold the toilet to the floor. This step needs the adjustable wrench, but if rusting is present, use the hacksaw blade to cut it
• The helper is needed to lift the toilet tank and bowl away and off the ground. Make sure the toilet is supported on a soft and secure surface and laying on its side or back
• The old wax ring and plumber’s putty should be removed using the putty knife
• If any damage has occurred to the closet flange, repair or replacement is needed

Closet Flange

If this part of the toilet has been damaged, using the manufacturer’s instructions or professional plumber can help repair or replace it. In brief, this part is what secures the toilet to the ground and is important for the process.

Testing the New Toilet

Before moving on, it is important to know that the new toilet is able to be installed in the location:

• Temporarily set the toilet on the flange and see if the bolts match/ align with the base holes
• Inspect, also, that the toilet sits well on the floor and is level to the ground
• Remove the toilet and place it back on the secure and safe place

Applying the Wax Ring

This part of the toilet is used to prevent sewer smells and water from exiting the toilet. These rings can be either wax or plastic, but should be installed properly and over 21°C:

• Remove any protection plastic that is around the wax ring
• Centre and press the ring tightly over the discharge outlet (horn) of the toilet. Make sure it is firmly there
• Try to not break the ring if possible, otherwise a new one is needed as it cannot be used

Setting the Toilet

After the ring is installed, setting the toilet is next:

• Have the flange bolts placed in their respective slots within the flange to have their threaded ends pointed straight up
• Lift the toilet carefully with the help of the assistant to set the toilet on the closet flange
• Then, slip the holes of the base over the flange bolts while the toilet would be elevated as it hits the wax ring
• Continuously apply small pressure then have the toilet set down over the centre of the bowl
• Have the plastic cover plate installed with the nut, washer and nut cover on the flange bolts. After that, tighten the bolts
• Clean up any mess and install the toilet onto the base

Connecting the Plumbing

The rest is simple:

• Make sure to connect any remaining plumbing connections, while also turning the water back on
• If wanted, seal the base of the toilet around with a neat bead of pure silicone caulk

Trusted toilet installation with qualified plumbers

Here at Optimised Plumbing Services our toilet plumbing installation is the best within Sydney. Installing a new toilet can be daunting, therefore, we can easily perform toilet setup tasks within your home. Our skills are of high certified level and we can install any type of toilet anywhere. If you are adding a toilet to a bathroom or replacing a new one – contact us through dialling 02 8074 1475 or email us at contact@optimisedplumbingservices.com.au. If you need help with what title to install, Sydney Water has reliable information. Additionally, our Emergency Plumber crew can be called anytime to quickly replace and install a toilet.