Gather the necessary tools and materials: You’ll need a new toilet, a wax ring, closet bolts, a wrench (adjustable or open-end), a screwdriver, a level, a measuring tape, and a putty knife. Get a Bristol plumber to everything for you if it seems too much.
- Prepare the area: Ensure the bathroom floor is clean and level. If there was an old toilet, remove it by following the steps to remove a toilet.
- Position the wax ring: Place the wax ring onto the flange, ensuring it is centered and seated properly.
- Install the closet bolts: Insert the closet bolts into the flange slots, making sure they are parallel and properly aligned.
- Place the toilet: Carefully position the toilet bowl over the wax ring and align the closet bolts with the holes in the base of the toilet.
- Lower the toilet: Gently lower the toilet bowl onto the wax ring and ensure it is properly aligned with the wall and floor. Press down firmly to compress the wax ring.
- Install the washers and nuts: Place the washers over the closet bolts, followed by the nuts. Hand-tighten the nuts, ensuring the toilet remains properly aligned.
- Level the toilet: Use a level to check if the toilet is level from front to back and side to side. Adjust the position as needed by tightening or loosening the nuts.
- Tighten the nuts: Use a wrench to tighten the nuts, being careful not to overtighten and risk damaging the toilet or flange.
- Install the tank: Place the tank onto the bowl, aligning the bolts with the corresponding holes. Insert washers and nuts, tightening them by hand until snug.
- Connect the water supply: Attach the water supply line to the bottom of the tank, ensuring it is tight but not overly so. Turn on the shut-off valve to allow water to fill the tank.
- Check for leaks: Inspect the connections and base of the toilet for any signs of water leaks. If leaks are detected, tighten the connections as needed.
- Install the toilet seat: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to install the toilet seat onto the bowl, using a screwdriver or wrench as necessary.
- Test the toilet: Flush the toilet several times to ensure proper functioning and check for any leaks.
- Caulk around the base (optional): Apply a thin bead of silicone caulk around the base of the toilet to create a neat and waterproof seal, if desired.
A tip: Always check that your toilet drain is connected properly or ask local Bristol plumbers to check it for you.
How to Install a toilet