How to swap your old toilet for a water-saving model
In short: Upgrading to a WaterSense solution can reduce household water waste, but the installation requires precision. From managing residual water to securing the flange, plumbing expert Richard Trethewey breaks down the essential steps to ensure your new fixture is installed correctly and leak-free.
Replacing a standard toilet with a water-saving model is a common home improvement project that requires specific tools and a methodical approach. According to plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey, the process begins by shutting off the water supply, which is typically located to the left of the toilet. After flushing the tank and using a sponge and bucket to remove any remaining water, the connection between the hose and the tank can usually be loosened by hand.
The mechanical core of the installation involves removing the old unit and preparing the flange. After loosening the closet bolts with an open-ended adjustable wrench, the old toilet must be lifted straight up. Once removed, any old wax around the flange should be cleared away using a putty knife. It is critical to inspect the closet flange at this stage; if it is broken, it must be replaced to ensure a proper seal.
Assembling the new unit requires precision to avoid damage. The new toilet should be fitted with brass tank bolts and a tank-to-bowl gasket. After placing a new wax ring on the flange and setting the toilet into it, the closet bolts must be secured with washers and nuts. Trethewey advises using an adjustable wrench to tighten the bolts on both sides, but warns against overtightening, which could damage the porcelain. Finally, the excess bolt length can be trimmed with a mini hacksaw, and the installation is finished by reconnecting the water and applying caulk around the base.
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Sources
- Summary by Intellect · source: How to Install a Water Saving Toilet | Ask This Old House
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