Getting Started on Toilet Installation: What You Need to Know

Want to install a toilet in your Austin or 78704 home but don't know where to start? You've come to the right place. Toilet installation might sound intimidating at first, but with the right tools and knowledge it can be a relatively straightforward and rewarding job.

Toilet installation can be a tricky job – it requires you to follow plumbing regulations and manufacturer instructions to ensure the job is done correctly. In fact, failing to follow the correct protocols can lead to expensive repairs further down the line.

But that doesn't have to be the case. This guide will cover everything you need to know about successful toilet installation, from selecting the right model for your home to connecting it safely, legally, and efficiently.

Choose the Right Toilet for Your Home

The first step in installing a new toilet is determining what type of model is going to be the best fit for your home. There are numerous factors to consider, and it's important to choose the right model for your space. To start with, consider the size of the room – you'll want to make sure the toilet fits properly in the space, with room to spare for cleaning.

In addition, think about your water supply. If you live in an area with low water pressure, you'll want to choose a model with a pressure-assisted flushing system, which will provide increased performance and give you a more powerful rinse.

You'll also want to consider the overall look of the toilet, as well as the other fixtures you have in the room. Try to choose a model that will fit in well with the existing décor.

Once you've chosen the right model for your home, you can move on to the installation process.

Gather the Appropriate Tools

Before you begin, you'll need to make sure you have all the tools necessary for the job. You'll need the following items:

• A wrench or two

• An adjustable wrench

• A closet auger

• A pair of channel-lock pliers

• Plumber's putty

• Threaded washers

• A screwdriver

It's also important to make sure you have safety glasses and gloves on hand, just in case.

Drain the Old Toilet and Disconnect the Supply Line

Once you have all the tools collected, you'll need to begin the process of removing the old toilet. Start by turning off the water to the toilet and draining the tank. Do this by flushing the toilet and holding down the handle until all the water has been released from the tank. Make sure you place a bucket beneath the bowl to catch any remaining water that drains out.

Now, you'll need to disconnect the supply line. This is the hose that runs from the wall to the tank, which supplies the toilet with water. To disconnect the supply line, undo the compression nut on the shut-off valve. This should allow you to pull the supply line away from the valve.

Remove the Old Toilet

Now the tank is emptied and the supply line is disconnected, it's time to remove the old toilet. To do this, loosen the screws that secure the toilet to the floor, as well as any bolts that secure the tank to the bowl. Now you should be able to lift the toilet off of the floor.

Be sure to wrap the bowl of the toilet in plastic to prevent any damage. You can also place some newspaper underneath the toilet to avoid any spills or mess.

Prepare the New Toilet

With the old toilet removed, you can now begin to prepare the new one. Start by checking the instructions that come with the toilet and familiarize yourself with the pieces. Now it's time to apply a coating of plumber's putty to the bottom flange of the toilet. This will secure it to the floor, so it's important to do it correctly.

Once this is done, you can place the toilet in the proper position on the floor. To do this, place a spacer between the toilet and the wall to make sure the toilet fits properly. Now, use the screws that came with the toilet to secure it to the floor.

Connect the Toilet to the Supply Line

Now that the toilet is secured to the floor, you can begin to connect the supply line. To do this, you'll need to attach the supply line to the shut-off valve, using the adjustable wrench. To do this, make sure to thread the line in a clockwise direction. Tighten the compression nut and check to make sure there are no leaks.

Test-run the New Toilet

Once everything is connected, you can test the new toilet to make sure everything is in working order. To do this, turn the water back on and wait for the tank to fill. Once the tank is full, flush the toilet and make sure it flushes properly.

The bottomline

Toilet installation can seem intimidating, but it doesn't have to be. By following these steps and taking the time to make sure everything is done properly, you can have a new toilet installed in no time at all. Just be sure to follow all the instructions for your specific toilet, and always make safety a priority.

Toilet Installation

Plumbing

Home Maintenance