Gather the Necessary Tools
Before you begin, you’ll need to gather a few tools. Here are the tools you’ll need to remove a toilet:
- Wrench
- Bucket
- Gloves
- Putty Knife
- New Wax Ring
Turn Off the Water Supply
The first step in removing a toilet is to turn off the water supply. Locate the water valve behind the toilet and turn it off. Flush the toilet to drain any remaining water in the tank and bowl. Use a bucket to scoop out any remaining water.
Disconnect the Water Supply Line
Next, you’ll need to disconnect the water supply line from the toilet. Use a wrench to loosen the nut connecting the supply line to the toilet. Once the nut is loose, you should be able to unscrew it by hand. Be sure to place a bucket underneath the supply line to catch any water that may still be in the line.
Remove the Tank
With the water supply line disconnected, you can now remove the tank. Start by unscrewing the bolts that connect the tank to the bowl. Once the bolts are removed, lift the tank off the bowl and set it aside.
Remove the Bowl
Now that the tank is removed, you can move on to removing the bowl. Start by removing the caps that cover the bolts at the base of the toilet. Use a wrench to loosen and remove the nuts that secure the toilet to the floor. Once the nuts are removed, you should be able to lift the toilet bowl off the floor.
Clean the Area
With the toilet removed, you’ll want to clean the area thoroughly. Use a putty knife to scrape away any old wax from the flange on the floor. Clean the area around the flange with a disinfectant cleaner.
Install the New Wax Ring
Before installing the new toilet, you’ll need to install a new wax ring. Place the wax ring over the flange on the floor. Be sure to center the wax ring over the flange.
Install the New Toilet Bowl
Now it’s time to install the new toilet bowl. Carefully lower the bowl onto the flange, making sure the bolts at the base of the toilet are aligned with the holes in the flange. Press down firmly to ensure a good seal.
Secure the Toilet Bowl
Once the toilet bowl is in place, you can secure it to the floor. Place the nuts onto the bolts at the base of the toilet and tighten them by hand. Use a wrench to tighten the nuts further, but be careful not to overtighten them.
Install the Tank
With the toilet bowl securely in place, you can now install the tank. Lower the tank onto the bowl, making sure the bolts are aligned with the holes on the bowl. Tighten the bolts by hand, then use a wrench to tighten them further.
Reconnect the Water Supply Line
With the toilet installed, you can now reconnect the water supply line. Tighten the nut by hand, then use a wrench to tighten it further. Turn on the water supply and check for any leaks.
Test the Toilet
Now that the toilet is installed, it’s time to test it out. Flush the toilet a few times to make sure it’s working properly. Check for any leaks around the base of the toilet.
FAQs
Q: How long does it take to remove a toilet?
Removing a toilet should take no longer than an hour if you have the necessary tools and experience.
Q: Can I remove a toilet by myself?
Yes, you can remove a toilet by yourself, but it’s always a good idea to have a helper to make the job easier.
Q: Do I need to replace the wax ring when I remove a toilet?
Yes, it’s highly recommended that you replace the wax ring whenever you remove a toilet. The wax ring creates a seal between the toilet and the flange on the floor, preventing leaks.
Conclusion
Removing a toilet may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools and a little bit of know-how, it can be a straightforward process. Follow the steps outlined in this article for “how to remove a toilet” and you’ll have your toilet removed in no time. Remember to take your time and be careful when handling the toilet, and always wear gloves to protect your hands.