How to Replace a Toilet-Part 1 of 3
When a toilet becomes damaged or overwhelmingly inefficient, it should be replaced with a new model that provides efficient function and water responsibility.
Replacing a toilet can be divided into three main tasks. First, the removal of the old toilet, second, the removal or the replacement of the wax rings sealing the toilet to the sewer line with the third task being the installation and set up of the new toilet base and tank.
Additionally, consider replacing the water supply valve and toilet tank hose during the installation of the new toilet. Before replacing the toilet, consider the different options and types of toilet that are available. Home improvement and hardware stores generally have a good selection of toilets. However, some specialty shop should be used when a higher end or handicap model is desired.
To completely replace a toilet, the following items will need to be purchased. The first item is a toilet bowl or base which is sold separately from the toilet tank. A toilet bowl comes in two main styles, circular and elliptical. Elliptical is being offered to provide a gentleman with more room.
The second item is a toilet tank that fits and matches the desired bowl. Tanks usually include all the working parts where it’s installed. However, if a tank is sold empty then a flush valve and fill valve kit along with a tank lever will need to be purchased.
The third item is the wax ring kit to seal the base lid toilet to the sewer line. The kit should include the mounting bolt through the base of the toilet. The fourth item is the plastic finishing caps which covers the toilet mounting bolts giving the toilet a fresh look.
These caps always need to be purchased because they are sold separately from any other items. The final purchase should be a cement mixing tub which will facilitate moving the old toilet out of the house.
The tools needed for this replacement are an adjustable open wrench or a socket wrench, a large flathead screw driver, a mini-hacksaw, a disposable plastic scraper, some plastic trash bags, paper towels, Latex gloves, and a utility knife for box cutter. To remove the toilet, begin by turning off the water supply valve and removing the lid to the toilets tank. Next, flush the toilet to alleviate any water pressure and disconnect the toilet’s water supply valve hose from the fill valve shank.
If the water supply valve is corroded in any way or the valve is more than five years old, then completely replace the valve and hose before reinstalling the new toilet. Now, remove the plastic mounting bolt caps from the base of the toilet and unscrew the lock nets holding the toilet to the floor. If a lock net has become stripped or corroded, then use a hacksaw to cut the bolt.
Ensure that any cut around the base of the toiled is scored with a utility knife. Once both knots are removed, position the cement mixing tub close to the toilet. Grab the toilet securely while lifting with your legs. Slowly place the toilet into the cement mixing tub.
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