Replace a Toilet: Remove the Old One and Set a New Wax Ring

Preparing the old toilet

The job starts with a utility knife scored around the toilet base to cut the caulk or sealant. The water is shut off behind the toilet, the toilet is flushed to empty the bowl and most of the tank, and a sponge and bucket remove the remaining tank water. The water line is then unscrewed, with a rag set down for any leftover water.

Removing the toilet

White caps cover the closet bolts that secure the toilet to the floor, and a crescent wrench removes the nuts. Two people can lift the toilet in one piece. Working alone, the tank is separated by loosening the screw and nut under it on both sides. Gloves are worn because the tank could crack, and the lift is done with the knees.

Cleaning the flange area

With the bowl out, the exposed sewer line gets a rag to block gases and smells. A metal putty knife scrapes off the caulk, and a plastic putty knife removes the goopy wax seal, wiped onto paper towel.

Installing the new toilet

The new toilet came with its own wax ring, and its instructions call for sticking it to the bottom of the toilet. Other toilets may call for placing it on the flange, so the instructions should be read. Rubber gloves help with the sticky wax. The bolts are lined up with the holes in the bowl, and the bowl is dropped straight down and wiggled to seal the wax ring.

The tank has three bolts that line up with three on the bowl, with a rubber seal on each bolt and in the center. The washers and nuts supplied are hand tightened, then finished with a wrench.

Testing and finishing

The water line is reattached and the water turned on, and the tank fills while the joints are checked for leaks. The lid and seat go on, a flush test follows with a check for leaks under the bolts, and a bead of caulk goes around the base.