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Refill, Test, & Caulk

10:27
12:25
46.9K views

At 10:27 in

Replacing a Wax Ring...Avoid a Plumbing FAIL!

What happens here

With the water supply reconnected, slowly open the water supply valve to refill the toilet tank. Reinstall the ballcock assembly if it was completely removed during draining, ensuring it's properly threaded onto the fill tube. Once the tank is full, test flush the toilet multiple times to confirm proper function and check for any leaks around the base, supply line, or internal tank components. Finally, apply a bead of clear siliconized plumbers caulk (e.g., Hercules Clear Siliconized Plumbers Caulk) around the base of the toilet where it meets the tile. Smooth the caulk with your finger for a neat finish, but leave a small gap (e.g., 2 inches) at the back of the toilet to allow any future leaks to become visible.

Goal: Ensure the toilet functions properly and is sealed.

Tools and materials

  • Safety Gloves — Protecting hands from caulk
  • Water N/A — Refilling the tank and testing flushes