How To Effectively Repair A Toilet Leaking At Base

Have you experienced having a toilet that leaks at the base? This problem commonly results from a broken wax ring. Because it is no longer functioning as it’s supposed to, the bowl is not securely held to the pipe and that’s why water seeps from that area. Fortunately, it is not impossible to replace the wax ring on your own. We have to warn you though that it requires effort and time because you’ll have to remove the toilet bowl to properly accomplish this task. Here’s a DIY guide to help you out.

Toilet Removal

1. The first thing that you’ll need to do is to prepare all your tools for this repair project. You’ll need a new wax ring, a dry sponge, a pair of wrench, a pair of pliers, a flathead screwdriver, some old rags or newspapers. You should also have a pair of gloves to protect your hands from bacteria.

2. When you’ve completed all the required tools and materials, begin by turning off the water supply valve that’s found just behind your toilet. Once it is turned off, flush the tank to get rid of water. Use a paper cup to scoop out any leftover water inside the tank. Use your dry sponge to absorb the last drops.

3. When the tank is empty, disconnect the supply line using a pair of wrench or pliers. That should ensure that there will be no water running into the tank while you’re working.

4. Focus next on the washers found at the base of the toilet. Remove their caps using a flathead screwdriver. Once done, remove the bolts that hold the bowl to the toilet flange. Afterwards, lift the toilet carefully and put it on top of some clean rags or newspapers. Make sure that you’ll keep the caps, washers and nuts in a safe place because you’ll still need them later.

Wax Ring Replacement & Toilet Installation

1. Now it’s time to replace that worn-out wax ring! Get rid of the old one first by scraping it off the flange with the help of a putty knife.

2. Get the new wax seal and position it right on top of the flange. You have to guarantee that it is perfectly placed right at the center.

3. Lift your toilet bowl carefully and set it on top of the flange. Ensure that the bolts are properly positioned as well.

4. Get the washers that you removed earlier. Place them over the bolts one by one and thread them. Use your wrench to accomplish this task. Two tips though:

a.) You have to press down on the toilet while tightening the bolts and

b.) Don’t over tighten them because they might crack the base of the bowl.

5. Connect the water supply line to the valve once again and turn the valve on. This should refill the tank with water. Flush the toilet a few times just to check if there’s no more leaking.

We hope that you learned how simple it is to repair a toilet leaking at base. Should you need professional assistance with this task, just call the best Pinecrest FL plumbing professionals. Plumbers 911 Florida delivers exceptional plumbing services in Pinecrest FL including toilet repairs, bathroom remodeling, plumbing fixture installation, septic tank and grease trap installation and many more! Call us at 305-662-0668 (Miami-Dade County FL), 954-468-0512 (Broward County FL), 561-327-6287 (Palm Beach County FL)!

Get 100-dollar off your next service call with Plumbers 911 Florida! Watch our video to find out how.