Toilet wax rings secure the bottom end of the toilet connected to the sewer pipe from any leakage. As its name suggests, this ring is made of sticky wax that feels durable and easy to install. However, wax rings become dry, spongy, damaged, and smell like a swear. In this case, you need to replace your toilet wax ring before it becomes a problem.
The process of toilet wax ring replacement is really simple but a little dirty work. First, drain your toilet bowl, disconnect the water supply, pull out the toilet, adjust the flange, place a new wax ring, and take a test.
In addition to it, a few considerations should be made during the procedure. Toilet wax ring replacement can be dirty for some users and so they prefer to get services from such companies.
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How to Replace the Toilet Wax Ring?
Toilet wax rings may last years, but they can also fail over time. Heavy uses and other many reasons may damage the wax ring. Changing the toilet wax ring is not a big deal. You just need to follow our guidelines so that everything works smoothly.
1. Gather Certain Tools
In plumbing projects, tools play an essential role to fix any issue. So, you must bring all the equipment needed for Toilet wax ring replacement. They are listed below.
- Adjustable Wrenches to tighten to loosen the bolts
- Mid-size Bucket to place your toilet
- Sponge to absorb excess water
- Small HackSaw
- Toilet Plunger to remove excess waste
- Putty knife to pull out the wax
- Wet/dry vacuum
- Flathead screwdriver
- Old towels or rugs
After collecting the materials, bring a new wax ring that is very important to replace the damaged one. A good quality toilet wax seal costs between $2 to $10. Let’s proceed to work.
2. Drain Your Toilet Bowl
Now it’s time to drain your toilet bowl completely. It’s essential to keep your toilet clean and dry. Otherwise, your surroundings become messy and dirty that you won’t like obviously.
- Turn the shut-off valve located behind the toilet.
- Hold the flush button or chain.
- Keep it held until all waste and water drain from the pipeline.
- Use a vacuum or plunger to pull out excess materials from the bowel.
- Apply a dry towel or sponge to remove excess moisture.
3. Temporary Block the Water Supply Pipe
After draining your toilet, now need to stop the main water supply. This is important to disconnected the pipeline from your toilet to avoid any risk of sudden water flow.
- Turn off the main water source by rotating the knob.
- Lean down and go to the base of the tank.
- Here you see the “T” or “Y” connector that links water supply line.
- Use an adjustable wrench and rotate the bolt anticlockwise.
- Pull out the connector and pipe.
After these easy steps, take preparation for the vital part for the toilet wax ring replacement.
4. Pull Out the Toilet From the Floor
Toilets are secured with bolts or nuts on the floor. Removing this bowel may be a tricky job in the process. Still, you can do it by yourself by following the steps below.
- Place two clean towels around the base of your toilet.
- Use a flathead screwdriver and insert it under the edge bolts cover.
- Now gently push upward and Pull out the caps from both sides.
- Spin the bolts and washer to remove.
- Store them securely for reuse.
- Bend your knees and take a position.
- Now grab the toilet from both sides.
- Gently push it upward and lift it from the floor.
- Place the toilet securely on the bucket.
Note: – If the bolts are stuck at the base, apply penetrating oil and sleepover for a few minutes. The process will loosen the connection. Do not apply too much pressure to pull them out. Otherwise, the cover or toilet anchor flange can break.
5. Remove Toilet Wax Ring
When you pull out the toilet bowl, you see a melting wax ring at the bottom. Removing the wax is essential to place a new one. Using your hand may become dirty for you. So below are the steps to proceed
- Lean your toilet to get its bottom access.
- Take a putty knife and remove the toilet wax ring.
- Start pushing the blade into wax.
- Now gently push the knife following its round shape.
- The process will remove the wax ring easily.
- Now place the toilet again on a bucket or towel.
6. Clean The Toilet Flange
After removing the toilet wax ring, it’s time to inspect the flange. This plastic or metal attachment works as a compressor in joints. Any damage, wetness, and moisture in this area can threaten the drainage function.
- Use a putty knife and remove leftover wax around the flange.
- Apply a clean cloth to remove any dirt or debris.
- Rotate and pull out the bolts around the attachment.
- Remove the toilet flange and start the manual inspection.
- Inspect for damage, crack, or broken.
- Replace the flange if needed or secure the existing one for reuse.
7. Replace The Toilet Flange Bolts
Toilet flange bolts secure the attachment that connects the wax ring and drainage pipe. Like the flange, bolts are also vital to keep in good quality. Any debris, wax, wet, or mixture can loosen the connection.
- Bring new pair of flange bolts to secure the connection.
- Place them on the existing slot.
- Remove any moisture, debris, or wax.
- Confirm that each bolt is placed at the same distance.
- Put your flange back on the bolts to secure.
After following every step, bring your new toilet wax ring to attach at the bottom.
8. Put Back Your New Wax Ring
If you are new to the replacement, follow the manufacturer’s guide to place the wax ring. Either you can attach it at the bottom of the toilet, or you can directly put it on the flange.
- Bring your new wax ring and open the package.
- Lean your toilet and place the ring at the center position.
- Gently push the wax using your palm.
- Put the wax ring on the flange if you have doubts.
9. Place the Toilet Back
After placing the new wax ring, it is time to connect the toilet back to the floor flange. It is a vital part of this replacement guide. So be careful while following the steps
- Take a deep breath before lifting the toilet.
- Grab the bowel in both hands and pull it.
- Try to align the toilet bottom with a flange.
- Gently put the bowel towards the gaps of the nuts.
- Now give a hard push to the toilet and smash the wax ring.
- The next step is to insert the bolts to secure the connection.
So, you are done replacing the toilet wax ring at your own. I hope everything is done perfectly. Now it’s time to take a test to ensure if there is any leakage or required re-adjustments.
10. Take a Test
After placing your toilet, attach the pipe connections, and turn on the main water source.
You have completed all the required steps to replace your toilet wax ring. So let’s take a test to mark your hard work.
- Sit on the toilet.
- Make sure you don’t feel any wobbling.
- Try to move the bowl to ensure an accurate connection.
- Give your toilet a good flush.
- Inspect any league or moisture out from the toilet base.
Now You are done replacing the Toilet wax ring if you found no leakage and no toilet wobbling. However, you must do a daily check for a week to avoid any problems such as toilet flushes but waste comes back.
FAQs on Toilet Wax Ring Replacement
What Does Toilet Wax Ring Replacement Cost?
Generally, toilet wax ring replacement costs between $90-$120 when performed by the plumber. Still, the charges can vary on your location and how long your existing wax ring lasts. It is beneficial to contact a plumber if you feel annoyed about replacing a dirty wax ring.
What are the symptoms of Toilet Wax Ring Leakage?
On average, a toilet wax ring lasts 30 or more years. Still, the attachment can be damaged, broken, dry, or spongy. As a result, you start seeing water leakage from the toilet base. In this case, you should replace the ring with a hygienic bathroom.
What is the Best Wax Ring for the Toilet?
There are mainly two types of toilet wax rings available in the market: regular and double thick. Depending on your flange quality, buy the best wax ring for you. Generally, a flange carries plastic or metal pieces over them.
What Are the Alternative of Toilet Wax Ring?
A Wax Free seal kit may be a good alternative for your wax ring. Still, the sticky ring works best for your toilet and lasts more than the alternative.
Conclusion
We hope this article is helpful in cut down plumber costs. Besides, you should always wear gloves and a mask when working on these projects. It is easier for you if you don’t feel annoyed with toilet projects.
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