subject: Replacing An Old Toilet With A New One [print this page] Get started in your toilet installation by taking a good look at the space where you will install the toilet. Locate the water valve and supply line and note the diameter of the threads. Find the flange in the floor over the drain and make sure it is not cracked.
Move forward by getting some basic specifications. Take a measurement from the back wall to the center of the toilet drain. If a toilet is already in place, you can just measure to the floor bolts.
Now its time for a trip to the home improvement center. There you will browse the different models of toilets. Make sure to get the advice of good sales person. Also make sure to select a model with the same rough in dimensions you measured on the drain.
Its now time to roll up your sleeves and wrestle out the old fixture. Un-do the two bolts holding the toilet to the floor. Turn off the water supply. Unscrew the hose. Simply rock the toilet back and forth and it will come loose. Get a someone to help you lift the fixture.
You will now need to dispose of the old toilet. It is rare that one can resell a used toilet, so research your local disposal sites. Then load the fixture into your vehicle. You might need to take it apart if your vehicle is small.
Remove your new toilet from the packaging. Sometimes it is easiest to cut the packaging away with a razor knife. Inside you should have installation instructions. Read these and do what assembly is required. Take care to find and organize any parts like hoses or gaskets you might need later.
Next connect the toilet to the drain and water supply. Start by putting the wax gasket in place, either on the bottom of the toilet, or on the floor flange. Put the mounting bolts into the flange and install the toilet over the bolts so they line up. Attach the water line, and tighten, but don't over tighten everything.
Now that your toilet is in place, you can switch on the water. Immediately the water tank on the back of the toilet will fill. It will stop automatically. When full, look everywhere for leaks, but especially around the supply hose, tank gasket, and toilet base. With no leaks, you are ready for service.
