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How to Replace a Toilet Wax Ring

mediumHome Repair1-2 hours10 steps

Safety Warnings

  • Handle chemical cleaners and lye with extreme care; if lye spills on skin, wash with cold water immediately (refer to safety directions on container).
  • Ensure the water supply is completely shut off before beginning disassembly to prevent flooding.

Tools Needed

Wrench — check locally
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Screwdriver — check locally
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Putty knife or scraper — check locally
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Materials

Wax ring — check locally(1)
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Steps

1
Shut off the water supply to the toilet and drain the tank and bowl completely.
Tip: Supporting the float ball can help stop inflow if the valve is leaky.
2
Disconnect the water supply line from the toilet tank.
Tip: Rotate tools right-to-left (counter-clockwise) to loosen nuts.
3
Remove the mounting bolts that secure the toilet to the floor flange.
Tip: Avoid undue strain on small brass screws to prevent them from twisting off.
4
Carefully lift the toilet away from the floor and set it aside.
Tip: Ensure the toilet is lifted straight up to avoid damaging the flange.
5
Scrape away the old, adhered wax ring from the toilet horn and the floor flange.
Tip: Use a putty knife to ensure a clean surface for the new seal.
6
Place the new wax ring onto the floor flange or the bottom of the toilet bowl.
Tip: Check locally for specific ring sizing based on your toilet model.
7
Carefully lower the toilet back onto the flange, aligning the bolts with the holes.
Tip: Avoid rocking the toilet once it is seated to prevent compressing the wax unevenly.
8
Tighten the mounting bolts to secure the toilet to the floor.
Tip: Rotate tools left-to-right (clockwise) to tighten; do not over-tighten to avoid cracking the porcelain.
9
Reconnect the water supply line and turn the water back on.
Tip: Slowly open the valve to check for leaks at the connection.
10
Flush the toilet several times to test the seal at the base for any leaks.
Tip: Inspect the floor area around the base carefully during the first few flushes.

Pro Tips

  • Minor plumbing repairs can be done by the householder to save money and avoid delays.
  • If extensive alterations are needed, ensure work is performed by a qualified or licensed plumber.

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Sources

Synthesized from 4 verified sources:

Gutenberg: Simple Plumbing Repairs (FB 1460)View →
Gutenberg: Dwelling ConstructionView →
USDA Farmers' Bulletin (Gutenberg)View →
Gutenberg: Electrical GuideView →