A Simple Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Your New Toilet

Are you looking to upgrade your bathroom with a new toilet? With the right tools and a little know-how, you can tackle this project yourself and save on plumbing costs. Follow this step-by-step guide to install your new toilet with confidence!

Step 1: Turn Off Water Supply to Toilet

Begin by locating the shut-off valve behind your toilet. Turn the valve clockwise to shut off the water supply, ensuring that you won’t have any leaks or spills during the installation process.

Step 2: Flush Toilet

Next, flush the toilet to empty the tank. This step is essential to ensure that you start with an empty system and avoid any water mess.

Step 3: Remove Remaining Water from Tank and Bowl

Use a sponge or a wet vacuum to remove any leftover water from the tank and bowl. This will make the removal process much cleaner and easier.

Step 4: Remove Supply Line to Toilet

Disconnect the water supply line from the bottom of the toilet tank. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the nut and remove the line carefully.

Step 5: Remove Bolt Caps and Unthread Nuts

Take off the plastic caps covering the bolts at the base of the toilet. Use your wrench to unthread the nuts securing the toilet to the floor.

Step 6: Remove Toilet

Once the nuts are removed, gently rock the toilet side to side to break the seal with the wax ring, then lift it off the flange and set it aside.

Step 7: Clean Existing Wax Ring Off of Toilet Flange

Scrape off any remnants of the old wax ring from the toilet flange. A clean surface will ensure a proper seal for the new toilet.

Step 8: Ensure Bolts are Sturdy

Before installing the new toilet, check that the bolts on the flange are sturdy and not spinning. If they’re loose, tighten them to avoid issues during installation.

HOT TIP: Use an XL Reinforced Wax Ring

For optimal results, consider using an extra-large reinforced wax ring. This will help ensure complete contact with the bottom of the new toilet, minimizing the risk of leaks.

Step 9: Install New Toilet

Carefully lift your new toilet and align it with the flange bolts. Lower it onto the wax ring and push down gently until it makes contact with the floor, ensuring a good seal.

Step 10: Install Washers, Nuts, and Caps

Once the toilet is in place, place the washers and nuts onto the bolts from underneath. Tighten them securely, but avoid overtightening, which could crack the toilet. Finally, snap the bolt caps into place.

Step 11: Reconnect Water Line to Toilet

Reconnect the water supply line to the tank. Tighten the nut with your wrench, ensuring it’s snug but not overly tight.

Step 12: Turn the Supply Valve Back On

Turn the shut-off valve counterclockwise to restore the water supply to the toilet. Allow the tank to fill up completely.

Step 13: Test Toilet

Flush the toilet a few times to test for any leaks around the base and connections. Make sure everything is functioning correctly.

Step 14: Attach Seat and You’re Done!

Finally, attach the toilet seat according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and your installation is complete!

Congratulations on your new toilet! Enjoy the satisfaction of a job well done, and remember that if you encounter any complex plumbing issues, (or just don’t want to do it yourself) you can always reach out to us for help!

Installation by Red Door Construction & Maintenance

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