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Remove the Toilet Bowl — Remove the Old Toilet Carefully

Beginner3 hours

Part of project

Replace Your Toilet: A Step-by-Step Guide · Step 2 of 5

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In this video

Remove the decorative plastic caps covering the closet bolts at the base of the toilet. Use an adjustable wrench to unscrew the nuts from the bolts. Once the nuts are off, carefully lift the toilet bowl straight up to break the wax seal and remove it from the floor flange. Place the bowl on its side on a protected surface like cardboard or towels.

Goal: Toilet Removal

  • Have a place ready to set the toilet bowl down before you lift it, as it can be heavy and awkward to handle.

Used in this video

  • Adjustable WrenchRemoving nuts from the closet bolts.
  • Shop Vacuum · optionalRemoving the last of the water from the bowl before lifting.
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FAQs

Is replacing a toilet truly a beginner-friendly project, and how long should I expect it to take?

Yes, this project is rated as beginner-friendly, but requires careful attention to detail. Most DIYers can complete it in approximately 3 hours, assuming no major complications like flange damage. Allocate extra time if you're working alone or if your old toilet is particularly stubborn.

Besides the listed adjustable wrench, sponge, and putty knife, what other essential tools or materials might I need?

You'll also want work gloves for hygiene, a utility knife for scoring caulk, and possibly shims if your floor isn't perfectly level. Don't forget rags or old towels to protect your floor and a bucket for any residual water. A new wax ring with bolts is crucial, as listed in materials.

What are the most critical safety precautions to take when removing the old toilet, especially regarding water and waste?

Always turn off the water supply completely and flush multiple times to empty the tank and bowl as much as possible. Wear sturdy gloves and eye protection when handling the old toilet, as it can be heavy and contain residual waste. Be careful lifting, as toilets are heavy; bend with your knees.

What are the most common mistakes people make when installing a new wax ring, and how can I prevent leaks?

A common mistake is misaligning the toilet over the wax ring, which can crush it improperly and lead to leaks. Ensure the new wax ring is seated correctly on the flange or base of the toilet and lower the toilet straight down onto the bolts. Do not lift and reposition the toilet once the wax ring has made contact, as this can break the seal.

Transcript
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Now the tank is off, we're going to take off the bolt caps and unscrew the bolts from the bowl to the floor flange. Okay, we're going to take the water out of the bowl now. If you don't have a shot back then you just have to use towels or you can just pick the bowl up and lean it towards and hopefully none of the water leaks out of the back. All right, we're ready to lift up the toilet now. You're just going to lift it straight up and we're going to remove now and remove it. Okay, now we're going to clean off the wax ring that's on the top of the toilet flange.

Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.