Taking on a DIY plumbing project may seem daunting, but with the proper tools and a bit of patience, anyone can tackle the task of removing a toilet. Whether you’re renovating your bathroom or you need to replace a faulty unit, learning how to remove a toilet can save you time and money.
Before you begin, it’s important to ensure that you have the necessary tools and materials to get the job done. A wrench, plunger, and a few old towels or rags will come in handy during the process.
Additionally, make sure to locate your home’s water shut-off, as turning off the water supply is an essential step to avoid flooding or water damage.
Preparing for the Removal
Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials
To remove a toilet, gather the following tools and materials:
- Adjustable wrench
- Ratchet wrench
- Rubber gloves
These tools will help you disconnect the water supply and remove the toilet bolts.
Shut Off the Water Supply
Before removing the toilet, locate the shut-off valve on the wall or floor and shut off the water supply to the toilet. It’s usually a small handle or knob that you can turn clockwise.
Empty the Tank and Flush the Toilet
Put on your rubber gloves, and empty the tank by flushing the toilet. Hold down the flush handle to remove as much water as possible. This will help minimize spillage and any potential exposure to sewage gas.
Next, disconnect the water supply tube from the bottom of the tank using your adjustable wrench. This prevents water from flowing back into the tank during the removal process. You’re now ready to proceed with the toilet removal.
Disassembling the Toilet
Remove the Tank
Before removing the toilet, turn off the water supply valve and flush the toilet to empty the tank. Place a towel or container underneath the tank to catch any remaining water.
When working with a two-piece toilet, first focus on removing the toilet tank. Loosen and remove the mounting bolts that connect the tank to the bowl. These are typically found at the bottom of the tank and can be removed using a wrench.
If the nuts are rusted or hard to remove, you can use penetrating oil or a nut splitter to assist in removing them. Once the nuts are removed, gently lift the tank away from the bowl.
For a one-piece toilet, skip this step and proceed to the next section.
Detach the Bowl from the Floor
Now that the tank is removed (or if you have a one-piece toilet), it’s time to detach the bowl from the floor. Remove the decorative caps covering the floor bolts located near the base of the toilet. Use a wrench to loosen and remove the nuts securing the toilet to the floor bolts.
If the toilet is caulked to the floor, you’ll need to carefully cut through the caulk using a utility knife or putty knife. Take care not to scratch the floor or toilet while doing this.
Next, remove the toilet from the toilet flange by gently rocking the bowl back and forth to break the seal created by the toilet wax ring. Once the seal is broken, carefully lift the toilet from the floor and place it on a clean and stable surface.
Remember to dispose of the old wax ring in a trash bag and clean the area around the flange thoroughly.
Removing and Replacing Components
Replace the Wax Ring
To remove the old wax ring, begin by carefully prying off the plastic caps covering the closet bolts at the base of the toilet. Next, use a wrench to unfasten the nuts on the bolts. Before lifting the toilet, disconnect the fill valve and flush valve as needed. Once disconnected, lift the toilet straight up and off the bolts and place it on a soft surface to prevent damage.
Use a putty knife to scrape off the old wax ring. If the ring is too stubborn, a stiff wire brush will make removing the remnants easier. Clean the area thoroughly to ensure there is no residue that could impede the seal of the new wax ring.
Tools and Materials
- Putty knife
- Stiff wire brush
- New wax ring
- Plastic caps (if necessary)
Remove and Replace the Flange
Inspect the flange and bolts for signs of damage or corrosion. If the flange is cracked or the bolts are rusted, it’s important to replace these components to prevent sewer gas leaks and to create a secure seal.
- Remove the closet bolts from the flange.
- Unscrew the old flange from the floor.
- Clean the area with a wire brush to remove any debris.
- Position the new flange over the sewer pipe and align the holes with the original screw holes.
- Secure the new flange without over tightening the screws to avoid cracking the component.
Insert new closet bolts into the slots. Place the new wax ring over the flange, centering it on the sewer pipe opening. Carefully lower the toilet onto the wax ring, lining up the bolt holes in the toilet base with the closet bolts. Tighten the nuts onto the bolts, ensuring the toilet is level and secure.
Tools and Materials
- Stiff wire brush
- New flange (if necessary)
- New closet bolts
- Screwdriver
- Wrench
Disposing of the Old Toilet
Once you have successfully removed the old toilet, it’s essential to dispose of it responsibly. There are a couple of methods to consider that are both environmentally and socially responsible: proper disposal and recycling or donating.
Proper Disposal Methods
There are various ways to dispose of an old toilet:
- Broken or leaking toilets: If your toilet is broken or leaking, it may be more challenging to recycle or donate. In this case, your best option could be to bring it to a landfill or waste disposal site.
- Contact your local sanitation department: Reach out to your local sanitation department to inquire about their policies on toilet disposal; they may even offer a pickup service as part of the waste collection.
- Take it to a recycling center: Some recycling centers may accept old toilets, depending on the materials used, and often will donate them to appropriate organizations after proper sanitization.
Consider Recycling or Donating
If your old toilet is still in working condition, you might want to consider recycling or donating it. Here are some options to explore:
- Local charity or thrift stores: Organizations such as Habitat for Humanity may accept working toilets for donation. You can help someone in need while avoiding unnecessary waste.
- Sell or give it away online: List your old toilet on websites like Craigslist or Freecycle. Some DIY enthusiasts could find a useful purpose for it.
- Upgrading to a high-efficiency toilet: Some local governments or water utilities may offer rebates or incentives to property owners for replacing their old toilets with new, high-efficiency models. Be sure to check your local programs and requirements.
Preventing Future Issues
Proper Cleaning and Maintenance
To prevent future issues with your toilet, proper cleaning, and maintenance are essential. Regularly clean the porcelain with a gentle cleaner and a soft cloth to avoid scratching. Use vinegar to remove buildup and disinfect the toilet. Be careful not to scrape away any materials that could damage the toilet fixtures.
To maintain the toilet’s level, periodically check the mounting bolts and washer. This can prevent your toilet from becoming unstable and causing leaks. Protect the surrounding floor area while cleaning the toilet by placing towels or newspapers to catch any spills. Vacuum any dust and dirt around the toilet’s base; this helps keep debris from entering drainage pipes and causing clogs.
If you have small children, consider installing childproof locks on toilet lids to prevent accidents.
Installing a New Toilet Correctly
When installing a new toilet, it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and correctly prepare the area. Ensure the floor surface is level and stable to prevent future problems with the toilet’s functionality. Consult with a professional if needed, as sometimes a helper can be beneficial while installing toilets.
Keep a close eye on the materials used during installation, particularly the wax ring that seals the connection between the toilet and the drainage system. A faulty seal may result in leaks and damage. Have the necessary tools handy and take your time with installation, as rushing may lead to mistakes and future issues.