How To Replace Your Wax Ring: A Step-by-step Guide
What To Know
- A wax ring is a crucial component that seals the connection between the toilet and the flange on the floor.
- Use the toilet wrench to loosen and remove the two toilet bolts that secure the toilet to the floor flange.
- Use the putty knife to carefully scrape away the old wax ring from the toilet flange and the bottom of the toilet.
If you’re experiencing leaks around the base of your toilet, it’s likely that your wax ring needs to be replaced. A wax ring is a crucial component that seals the connection between the toilet and the flange on the floor. Replacing a wax ring is a relatively simple plumbing task that can be completed with a few basic tools and a little bit of know-how. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of how to replace your wax ring.
Tools and Materials
Before you get started, gather the following tools and materials:
- New wax ring
- Toilet wrench
- Adjustable wrench
- Putty knife
- Rags
- Gloves
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Shut Off the Water Supply
Locate the water supply valve behind the toilet and turn it clockwise to shut off the water. Flush the toilet to empty the tank and bowl.
2. Disconnect the Water Supply Line
Using the adjustable wrench, disconnect the water supply line from the toilet fill valve.
3. Remove the Toilet Bolts
Use the toilet wrench to loosen and remove the two toilet bolts that secure the toilet to the floor flange.
4. Lift the Toilet
Carefully lift the toilet straight up and off the floor flange. Be sure to support the weight of the toilet with your legs, not your back.
5. Remove the Old Wax Ring
Use the putty knife to carefully scrape away the old wax ring from the toilet flange and the bottom of the toilet. Clean the surfaces thoroughly with a rag.
6. Install the New Wax Ring
Place the new wax ring on the floor flange, centering it over the opening. Make sure the wax ring is facing the correct direction, with the beveled side facing up towards the toilet.
7. Reinstall the Toilet
Carefully lower the toilet back onto the floor flange, aligning the bolts with the holes in the toilet base.
8. Tighten the Toilet Bolts
Hand-tighten the toilet bolts as much as possible. Then, use the toilet wrench to tighten the bolts further, alternating between the two bolts to ensure even tightening. Avoid overtightening the bolts, as this can crack the toilet bowl.
9. Reconnect the Water Supply Line
Reconnect the water supply line to the toilet fill valve and hand-tighten. Use the adjustable wrench to tighten the connection further.
10. Turn On the Water Supply
Turn on the water supply valve behind the toilet and check for leaks. If you notice any leaks, tighten the toilet bolts or the water supply line connection as needed.
11. Flush the Toilet
Flush the toilet several times to fill the tank and bowl. Check for any leaks around the base of the toilet.
Tips for Success
- Use a high-quality wax ring for a better seal.
- Apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to the bottom of the toilet bowl before setting it on the wax ring. This will help prevent the toilet from sticking to the wax ring.
- If you have difficulty removing the old wax ring, use a heat gun or hair dryer to soften it.
- If you encounter any leaks after replacing the wax ring, check for other potential sources of leaks, such as the toilet fill valve or water supply line.
Troubleshooting
- Toilet wobbles after installation: This could be due to uneven tightening of the toilet bolts. Loosen the bolts, realign the toilet, and tighten the bolts evenly.
- Persistent leaks: If you continue to experience leaks after replacing the wax ring, it may be necessary to replace the floor flange or the toilet base.
- Toilet won’t flush properly: This could be due to a clogged fill valve or a malfunctioning flush valve. Check these components for any issues.
Takeaways
Replacing a wax ring is a relatively simple plumbing task that can be completed by most DIYers with a little bit of effort. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can save yourself the cost of hiring a plumber and ensure that your toilet is properly sealed and functioning properly.
Information You Need to Know
Q: How often should I replace my wax ring?
A: A wax ring should be replaced whenever you remove your toilet, or if you notice any leaks around the base of the toilet.
Q: Can I reuse an old wax ring?
A: No, it is not recommended to reuse an old wax ring. Old wax rings can become compressed and lose their sealing ability.
Q: What type of wax ring should I use?
A: There are different types of wax rings available, including regular wax rings, foam wax rings, and extra-thick wax rings. For most applications, a regular wax ring is sufficient.
Q: What if I drop my toilet on the new wax ring?
A: If you drop your toilet on the new wax ring, it is important to remove the toilet and replace the wax ring. A damaged wax ring will not provide a proper seal and can lead to leaks.
Q: How can I prevent my toilet from leaking in the future?
A: In addition to replacing the wax ring regularly, you can also prevent toilet leaks by tightening the toilet bolts periodically and checking for any signs of wear or damage to the toilet base or fill valve.
