Replacing a toilet isn't necessarily a job for a professional plumber. Many DIY enthusiasts can get this done with the right tools and planning. Read the instructions below to learn how to easily remove your old toilet and properly install a new one!
Steps
Method 1 of 4: Remove the Old Toilet
Step 1. Get rid of all the water
Close the water supply valve. Flush the toilet to remove most of the water (hold it down for as long as possible). Remove the remaining water from the cup by pushing it down with a plunger and wiping the rest with a sponge. At this point, remove the water that is left in the box, again using the sponge.
Step 2. Disconnect the tubing
Use a wrench to disconnect the water supply hose. You could use the opportunity to replace this hose as well, but if you wish to keep it, only disconnect the point where it joins the toilet.
Step 3. Remove the bolts
Remove the caps (they look like small domes) from the bolts at the base of the toilet, then remove these bolts. Once this is done, also remove the bolts that connect the box to the seat.
Step 4. Remove the cassette
While straddling the cup, place your hands on either side of the cassette base, then lift it up by rocking it slightly from side to side to loosen it, making sure to pry up on your knees. Set the cassette aside, but be careful to place it on a water-resistant surface, as there may still be some residue left.
Step 5. Remove the seat
Now you can remove the rest of the toilet. Grab the seat and shake it from side to side to break the wax seal underneath and lift it off the bolts. If the bolts are heavily rusted and the seat gets stuck, you may need to saw off the visible part of the bolts using a hacksaw. Remove the toilet and set it aside.
Method 2 of 4: Prepare the New Cabinet
Step 1. Plug the hole
Using an old balled-up rag, plug the hole to prevent gases from rising into your house and tools from disappearing into the floor. Just remember to remove the rag when you put the new toilet in its place.
Step 2. Remove the old bolts
Take out the old bolts from the edge (you will probably have to bend them a little at the side, as they are arranged like the nails holding the photo frames). Arrange the old bolts as you see fit.
Step 3. Remove the wax seal
Remove what's left of the old wax seal. You can use a putty knife, a rag, and any other tools that may come in handy. Clean everything thoroughly when you're done.
Step 4. Check the edge
This is the plastic or metal circle that was underneath the wax. Check this edge - if it looks damaged, it may need to be replaced. You can also buy an adapter (or a larger stand) if the original is a little cracked or damaged.
Step 5. Replace the bolts
With the crankcase in good condition, you can now proceed to place new bolts on it. They should go long in the channels, in much the same way you hang a picture frame.
Step 6. Place the new wax seal
Lay the new toilet on its side, on top of a towel or other cushioned surface. Now put the new wax seal around the hole, with the plastic or rubber facing out. Push it fully into place, and twist it slightly like a handle to secure it securely.
Step 7. Remove the rag
Is very important! Don't forget to remove the rag!
Method 3 of 4: Place the New Cabinet
Step 1. Place the toilet
Lift the new toilet and position it so that the anchor bolts enter the holes in the base of the toilet. It will be easier if you remove the new cistern and only place the base, if the toilet was pre-assembled.
Step 2. Seal the wax ring
Shake the cup back and forth, and press it down firmly, pushing with your arms or sitting on the toilet. This way you will better seal the new wax ring.
Step 3. Replace the nuts and washers
Place the new nuts and washers at the base of the toilet. Don't squeeze them right away, though! Place a level above the seat and some wooden shims under the plinth to make sure the toilet is level. At this point, tighten the nuts on both sides, alternating each side and tightening only a little at a time, to ensure that the toilet remains level. Don't over-tighten the nuts - you don't want to break your new toilet!
At this point, be careful not to move the toilet too much, as you could break the gasket
Step 4. Place the bolt caps
Place the new caps on the anchor bolts. If they are too tall, you can shorten them by using a hacksaw.
Step 5. Insert the bolts and the cassette gasket
Take the new cassette and lay it on its side. Insert the bolts and washers from inside the cassette, then place the gasket that connects the cassette to the bowl around the hole in the base.
Step 6. Fix and fix the cassette
Take the cistern and place it over the main part of the toilet, so that the bolts fit into the appropriate holes. Now add the nuts and washers and screw them on, alternating sides as you did earlier for the toilet base. Make sure you don't over tighten them.
Method 4 of 4: Add the final touches
Step 1. Install the toilet valve assembly
You may need to install the valve assembly (all internal parts of the cassette) if it is not pre-installed. You should find detailed instructions in the package when purchasing the assembly, but you can still seek advice from an employee of your local hardware store.
Step 2. Install the tablet and the toilet seat
If they are not already mounted, you will need to attach them to the bowl using the appropriate bolts.
Step 3. Reconnect the water pipe
Reconnect the water supply line, using the new pipe or "recycling" the old one if it is still in good condition.
Step 4. Turn the water back on
Try flushing the toilet a couple of times after turning the water back on to make sure there are no leaks.
Step 5. Fill the toilet base
Use suitable putty and putty completely around the base of the toilet. Once dry, you are done! Enjoy your new toilet!
