Have you ever found yourself in a situation where your toilet needs a makeover? Fear not, because today, we’re diving into the oh-so-thrilling topic of how to change your toilet.
Yep, we’re going to talk about swapping out that old porcelain throne for a shiny new one, all by yourself. So, roll up your sleeves and get ready to flush away your toilet troubles with some good old DIY magic!
Need to replace your old toilet to save on your water bill? It’s actually a pretty easy DIY job that can make a big difference. Here’s a rundown in a more casual tone to get you through it step by step:
List of Important Things You Need:
- New Toilet (obviously! Make sure it comes with all the necessary parts like the toilet bowl, tank, wax ring, bolts, and caps.)
- A sponge & a bucket
- Screwdriver
- Wrench
- Plastic Shims
- Towels or old rags
- A friend (optional, but sometimes two pairs of hands are better than one!)
Now, follow the steps one by one, and you’ll have your new throne ready in no time:
Step 1: Drain the Old Toilet
Your first task is to drain all the water from the old toilet. To do this, just turn your water supply valve off and then flush the toilet a few times, which should do the trick. A sponge and a bucket can help get rid of any remaining water.
Step 2: Disassemble the Old Toilet
Now, you’ll have to disconnect the water supply line, which is usually located at the base of the toilet tank. After that, you can unscrew the nuts with your wrench and take the old toilet apart. This is where those towels come in handy – pop them on the floor for a mess-free disassembly.
Step 3: Remove the Old Toilet
Time to flex those muscles! Get a hold of the bowl and pull it straight up. Make sure to dispose of it responsibly. Maybe contact your local waste disposal center.
Step 4: Prepare for the New Toilet
The first thing you need to do is clean the old wax ring off the toilet flange. It might be icky, but it’s important for a good seal. Pop your new wax ring in place, and you’re good to go.
Step 5: Install the New Toilet
Here’s where your friend can be helpful. Hold the new toilet bowl over the flange and line up the holes. Lower it down so the bolts poke through the holes. Then, put the nuts on and tighten them – but not too tight. You don’t want to crack the bowl! That’s your toilet bowl in place!
Step 6: Set up the Tank
Pop your tank on top of the bowl, and make sure it lines up with the mounting holes. Screw it into place, and then hook up your water supply line. Almost there!
Step 7: Finish Up
Now that everything’s connected open the water supply again. Let things fill up, and give your toilet a test flush. Look out for any leaks around the base!
Frequently Asked Questions
Replacing a toilet can be like giving your bathroom a makeover! But with all the decisions, questions can pop up faster than, well, well, you know. Let’s break down some common ones:
Can I reuse the old squishy thing under the toilet? (a.k.a. the wax ring)
Nope! Think of it like a smashed birthday cake – wouldn’t use the same one for the next party, would you? A new wax ring is key to a good seal and avoiding leaks – nobody wants a soggy bathroom floor!
Should I just stick with my old toilet?
Think of your wallet and the planet! Newer toilets use way less water, saving you money and helping the environment. Plus, let’s be honest, older toilets can be like roommates who never clean – stubborn stains and yucky growth are no fun.
Should I fix my toilet or get a new one?
It depends! If it’s a minor issue like a wobbly handle, a quick fix might be the answer. But for major cracks, leaks, or overflows that keep coming back, a new toilet might be the best bet for long-term peace of mind.
When should I call in a plumber superhero?
Hey, no shame in calling for backup! Replacing a toilet can involve some lifting and twisting that might not be your cup of tea. If you’re not up for the challenge, don’t hesitate to call a pro. They’ve seen it all and can get your throne sparkling in no time.
Need a plumbing superhero, or just have more questions?
That’s where a 24/7 Emergency Plumber comes in! We’re here to handle all your plumbing needs, big or small. We’ll keep your bathroom a relaxing oasis, not a disaster zone. Call us today!
