This detailed guide teaches you how to install a toilet. You will discover how to install a toilet flange, wax ring, seat, fill valve, flapper, handle, and mount a toilet paper holder.
Getting a toilet finally replaced or installed may appear like a demanding job. Still, it can be done quickly with the right equipment and help. Regardless of whether you are installing a new toilet or changing an old one, you will go through every step in a detailed way with this guide, which will include the toilet flange, wax ring, seat, fill valve, flapper, and handle, as the most critical elements’ coverages. The prize in the end would be that you would have an undamaged and well fixed toilet that won’t let a drop of water out.
Tools and Materials Needed
To begin with, make sure to have all these tools and equipment:
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver
- Putty knife
- Toilet bowl and tank
- New wax ring
- Toilet flange
- Toilet bolts and washers
- Toilet fill valve
- Toilet flapper
- Toilet handle
- Flexible water supply line
- Plumber’s tape
- Level
- Bucket and sponge (to remove water)
How to Install a Toilet – Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Remove the Old Toilet (If Replacing One)
- Turn Off the Water Supply:
- To begin working around the shutoff valve, first locate it near the bottom of the toilet and rotate it right.
- Drain the Water:
- Push the flush lever to send most of the water from the tank and the bowl down the drain.
- Get a sponge and a bucket to dry any water that is still there.
- Disconnect the Water Supply Line:
- If a sponge and bucket remain, sponge the rest of the water. Instead, it was used.
- Remove the Old Toilet:
- Remove the nuts that are fastening the toilet to the floor.
- You can proceed with tilting the toilet back and forth to destroy the wax seal.
- Lift the toilet and put it on an old towel or trash bag.
- Scrape Away the Old Wax Ring:
- Use a putty knife to remove any residue around the flange.
How to Install a Toilet Flange
The toilet flange joins the toilet bowl to the drainpipe and fastens it to the floor. Before setting up the new toilet, replace your old flange if it is cracked or corroded.
Steps to Install a Toilet Flange:
- Remove the Old Flange:
- If it’s glued, use a chisel or reciprocating saw to cut it off.
- Install the New Flange:
- Place the new flange over the drainpipe.
- Align the bolt slots parallel to the back wall.
- Secure the Flange:
- Use screws to attach it firmly to the floor.
- The most important part is that it is flush with the finished floor.
How to Install a Toilet Wax Ring
The ring, which is made of wax, is placed between the toilet and the drainpipe in order that no water can leak.
Steps to Install a Wax Ring:
- Position the Wax Ring:
- The new wax ring should be on the toilet flange or right on the toilet outlet.
- Align the Toilet with the Flange Bolts:
- Carefully lower the toilet onto the flange.
- Press firmly to compress the wax ring and create a seal.
- Secure the Toilet:
- Insert bolts through the base holes and tighten the nuts evenly.
- Do not overtighten, as it may crack the toilet.
How to Install a Toilet Seat
Steps to Install a Toilet Seat:
- Position the Seat:
- Place the seat over the holes in the toilet bowl.
- Insert the Bolts:
- Insert the bolts with the help of a screwdriver into the holes in the seat.
- Secure the Seat:
- Make the nuts tight below by using a screwdriver or a wrench.
- Make sure the seat is stable and does not wobble.
How to Install a Fill Valve
The fill valve regulates water flow into the toilet tank.
Steps to Install a Fill Valve:
- Remove the Old Fill Valve:
- Detach the spindle at the bottom part of the tank and remove the used valve.
- Install the New Fill Valve:
- Push the new valve into the tank and then tighten the lock nut underneath.
- Adjust the Height:
- Check the proper valve height (it should be a little bit taller than the overflow tube).
- Reconnect the Water Supply Line:
- Join the supply line to the fill valve and then fasten it.
- Turn On the Water:
- Turn on the shutoff valve at a slow pace and inspect for any leaks.
How to Install a Toilet Flapper
The toilet flapper lets the water from the tank to the bowl pass.
Steps to Install a Toilet Flapper:
- Remove the Old Flapper:
- Remove the chain from the handle lever and unhook it from the overflow tube.
- Install the New Flapper:
- Attach it to the overflow tube and connect the chain to the flush lever.
- Adjust the Chain Length:
- The chain should have slight slack but should not be too loose.
- Test the Flush:
- Press the handle to ensure the flapper lifts and reseals properly.
How to Install a Toilet Handle
The movement of the flapper is regulated by a flush handle that is used in flushing the toilet.
Steps to Install a Toilet Handle:
- Remove the Old Handle:
- Unscrew the nut inside the tank and detach the lever.
- Install the New Handle:
- First, insert the new handle through the hole in the tank and then secure the nut.
- Next, attach the flush chain to the lever of the new handle.
- Test the Flush:
- Then, the next step is to check if the handle is moving quickly and if it is correctly opening and closing the flapper.
How to Install a Toilet Paper Holder
Steps to Install a Toilet Paper Holder:
- Choose the Location:
- Ideally, place it 26 inches from the floor and 8-12 inches from the toilet.
- Mark the Holes:
- Drill the tiniest holes, then, if necessary, put the drywall anchors in their place.
- Install Anchors:
- Mount the holder at the screw holes, gray the brackets, and finally, secure the brackets with screws to mount the holder.
Output
- Signing out with a level and a pencil will be the right thing to do to mark the points of the drill. Install the Clienteles: Drill the tiniest holes, then, if necessary, put the drywall anchors in their place.
- Attach the Holder:
- Fix the brackets to the wall with the screws and set up the holder.
Final Steps: Testing & Adjustments
- Check for Leaks:
- Look for water pooling around the base and at supply connections.
- Adjust the Water Level:
- When the water rests in the tank, you must check if it is approximately 1 inch below the water level.
- Test the Flush:
- Be sure everything works properly, and the toilet is correctly refilled.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long does it take to install a toilet?
- On average, it takes 1-2 hours, depending on experience level.
2. Do I need a professional to install a toilet?
- No! With proper tools and guidance, it’s a manageable DIY project.
3. Should I use a wax ring or a wax-free seal?
- Wax rings are traditional, but wax-free seals (foam/rubber) are cleaner and reusable.
4. Can I reuse my old toilet flange?
- Yes, if it’s in good condition. Replace it if it is cracked or corroded.
Final Thoughts on How to Install a Toilet
Installing a toilet may look like a terrible task. Nevertheless, you won’t feel out of place when you finish reading this tutorial because it gives you everything you need to know. Every process, from the installation of the flange and wax ring to fitting the fill valve, flapper, and handle, strictly follows the rules and is functional.
By learning these DIY plumbing solutions, you can keep the money and develop the skills for common household repair.
You can also read about How to Replace a Shower Head and How to Fix a Running Toilet
