Replacing a toilet flange is a relatively straightforward process, but it may require some basic plumbing skills and tools. Before you begin, ensure you have the necessary materials and equipment:
Materials:
- New toilet flange
- Wax ring
- Bolts and nuts (if not included with the new flange)
Tools:
- Screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench
- Hacksaw or PVC pipe cutter (if needed)
- Putty knife
- Wax paper or plastic bag (optional)
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you replace a toilet flange:
- Turn off the water supply: Locate the water shut-off valve behind the toilet and turn it off to stop the water flow.
- Drain the toilet: Flush the toilet and hold down the handle to remove most of the water from the tank and bowl. Use a plunger to force any remaining water down the drain.
- Remove the toilet: Disconnect the water supply line from the bottom of the toilet tank. Next, remove the nuts from the closet bolts located at the base of the toilet on either side. Carefully lift the toilet straight up and off the bolts. Place the toilet on a piece of cardboard or an old towel to protect the floor and cover the opening with wax paper or a plastic bag to prevent sewer gas from entering the bathroom.
- Remove the old flange: The flange is usually secured to the floor with screws. Use a screwdriver to remove these screws and lift the old flange out. If the flange is damaged and won’t come out easily, you may need to use a hacksaw or PVC pipe cutter to cut it into pieces for removal.
- Clean the area: Scrape off any old wax or debris from the closet flange area and ensure it’s clean and smooth.
- Install the new flange: Place the new toilet flange into the opening on the floor. If the flange height is too high for your floor, you can use flange extenders to raise it to the appropriate level. Secure the flange to the floor using screws.
- Replace the wax ring: Place a new wax ring on the flange with the tapered side facing up and the flat side down. The wax ring will form a watertight seal between the toilet and the flange.
- Reinstall the toilet: Carefully lift the toilet and align the closet bolts with the holes in the base of the toilet. Gently lower the toilet onto the wax ring and press down to compress the wax and create a seal. Once the toilet is seated, apply even pressure to secure it firmly to the floor. Hand-tighten the nuts onto the closet bolts and ensure the toilet is level before tightening the nuts with a wrench.
- Reconnect the water supply: Reattach the water supply line to the bottom of the toilet tank and turn on the water supply.
- Test for leaks: Flush the toilet a few times and check for any leaks around the base of the toilet and the flange. If you notice any leaks, tighten the nuts a little more or adjust the wax ring.
That’s it! You’ve successfully replaced the toilet flange. If you’re uncertain or uncomfortable with any step, consider seeking assistance from a professional plumber.
