Whether you’re replacing an old toilet or adding a new one, follow the manufacturer’s instructions or these general instructions to ensure a smooth installation.
Preparing for the new toilet
- If you’re replacing an old toilet, first learn how to remove and recycle a toilet. Then remove the old wax ring from the floor and toilet flange. Scrape off the remaining wax with a screwdriver or putty knife and a rag.
- Put a new wax ring over the outlet hole in the base of the toilet with the wax side pressing against the bowl side of the toilet and the plastic funnel facing away.
- Put a new pair of hold-down bolts into their slots and slide them into place. Use the plastic washers that come with the toilet to keep the bolts upright.
- Squeeze a layer of bathroom caulk around the base of the toilet where it will meet the floor to ensure that it seals properly to the floor.
- If you previously covered or blocked the toilet flange opening, be sure to clear this opening.
Installing the bowl
- Lift the bowl up so the outlet hole is directly above the toilet flange and lower it gently, making sure bolt holes in the base of the toilet pass over the hold-down bolts, and the wax ring and outlet hole slide over the toilet flange in the floor.
- To make sure the wax seal sets properly, gently rock the toilet in all directions. Close the lid and sit down to push the base onto the seal.
- Place washers over the hold-down bolts and screw on the nuts. Tighten the nuts finger-tight only. Put the new trim caps over the bolts.
Installing the tank
- At the base of the tank, place the spud washer (thick rubber gasket) that comes with the toilet over the flush hole from the tank. The widest part sits against the tank; the beveled side faces the bowl.
- Pick up the tank and lower it gently into place on the back of the bowl.
- Slip rubber washers onto the two long bolts and slide them through the holes from inside the tank to attach them to the bowl. Make sure the rubber washers are installed on the bolts inside the tank to seal the water in.
- Put the nuts on the bolts and tighten them until the tank is secured tightly to the bowl.
- If the tank secures to the wall, slide the wall holes over the bolts from inside the tank and tighten the nuts to hold the tank to the wall.
- Reconnect the water supply hose to the toilet tank and turn on the water.
- Your installation is complete.
Disclaimer: The Saving Water Partnership and Seattle Public Utilities provide this information as general information only and the advice contained therein shall not be construed as any type of certification, warranty or other approval with respect to the Owner’s compliance with any applicable Federal, State and/or local law, code, regulation or requirement, nor is the Saving Water Partnership or Seattle Public Utilities responsible for any injury or damage that may result from the use of this information.