How to Remove a Toilet: Pro’s Guide (6 Fast Steps!)
Whether you’re tackling a bathroom reno, dealing with a pesky plumbing issue, or just upgrading to a more efficient model, knowing how to safely remove a toilet is a valuable skill.
Trust me, with the right tools, a little know-how, and my pro tips, you can ditch the plumber’s bill and get this done yourself. Ready to dive in?
Section 1: Expert Picks for Tools and Materials
Alright, before we get our hands dirty, let’s gather the troops – I mean, the tools! Having the right gear will make this job smoother than a freshly tiled floor.
Here’s my go-to list:
- Adjustable Wrench: This is your all-purpose buddy for loosening and tightening bolts. I recommend a 10-inch wrench for good leverage.
- Screwdriver (Flathead and Phillips): You’ll need these to remove any screws holding the toilet seat or tank in place.
- Plumber’s Tape (Teflon Tape): Essential for creating a watertight seal when you reinstall your new toilet. Don’t skimp on this!
- Bucket or Towel: For catching any leftover water. Trust me, there’s always leftover water.
- Utility Knife: To score around the base of the toilet where it’s caulked to the floor.
- Caulk and Caulking Gun: For resealing the base of the new toilet to prevent leaks.
- Safety Goggles and Gloves: Safety first! Protect your eyes and hands from bacteria and grime.
Tool Talk: My Favorite Brands
- Adjustable Wrench: I’m a big fan of the Crescent adjustable wrenches. They’re durable and have a wide jaw capacity. Expect to pay around $20-$30 for a good one.
- Screwdriver Set: A reliable set from Klein Tools will last you years. Look for a set with comfortable grips. These usually run about $30-$50.
- Caulking Gun: Dripless Inc. makes some fantastic caulking guns that prevent that annoying post-squeeze drip. They’re a bit pricier, around $40-$60, but worth it in my opinion.
Don’t Forget These!
- New Wax Ring: This is crucial for creating a watertight seal between the toilet and the flange. Always use a new one! I prefer the Fluidmaster Better Than Wax ring.
- New Toilet Bolts: Why reuse old, potentially corroded bolts? A fresh set ensures a secure and leak-free installation.
- Putty Knife/Scraper: For scraping away old caulk or wax residue.
Investing in quality tools and materials pays off in the long run. You’ll avoid frustration and ensure a job well done.
Section 2: Safety Precautions
Okay, let’s talk safety. Working with plumbing can be a bit…icky. Plus, toilets are surprisingly heavy!
Here’s what you need to keep in mind:
- Eye Protection: Seriously, wear safety goggles. You don’t want anything splashing in your eyes.
- Gloves: Protect your hands from bacteria and potential cuts. Disposable gloves are your best bet.
- Turn Off the Water! This is non-negotiable. Locate the shut-off valve behind the toilet (usually on the wall) and turn it clockwise until it’s completely closed.
- Drain the Toilet: We’ll get into the specifics in the next section, but make sure you remove as much water as possible.
- Lift with Your Legs: Toilets are heavy. Don’t strain your back. Bend your knees and keep your back straight when lifting.
- Be Aware of Old Plumbing: Older homes may have corroded or fragile pipes. Be gentle when disconnecting the water supply line.
Potential Hazards and How to Handle Them
- Mold: If you see mold around the toilet base, spray it with a mold-killing cleaner and wear a mask.
- Sharp Edges: Be careful of sharp edges on the toilet bowl or tank.
- Heavy Lifting: If you’re not comfortable lifting the toilet yourself, ask a friend or family member for help.
Section 3: The 6 Fast Steps to Remove a Toilet
Alright, time to get down to business! Here are the six steps to safely removing your toilet:
Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply
This is where it all begins. Find that shut-off valve – it’s usually a small, oval-shaped handle located on the wall behind the toilet.
Turn it clockwise until it stops. Then, flush the toilet to release any pressure and ensure the water is truly off.
Sometimes, these valves can be stubborn, especially if they haven’t been used in a while.
If it’s stuck, try gently wiggling it back and forth. If that doesn’t work, you might need to shut off the main water supply to your house.
Step 2: Drain the Toilet
Flush the toilet to get rid of most of the water. Then, grab your trusty bucket and sponge (or old towels).
Use the sponge to soak up any remaining water in the tank and bowl. Squeeze the water into the bucket. You might be surprised how much is left!
This step is crucial for preventing a messy spill when you lift the toilet.
Step 3: Disconnect the Water Supply Line
Locate the water supply line connecting the shut-off valve to the bottom of the toilet tank.
Use your adjustable wrench to loosen the nut connecting the supply line to the tank. Be prepared for a little bit of water to drip out.
Have your bucket handy! Once the nut is loose, carefully disconnect the supply line.
Pro Tip: If the nut is corroded and won’t budge, try spraying it with a penetrating oil like WD-40. Let it sit for a few minutes before trying again.
Step 4: Unbolt the Toilet
Look for the bolts located on either side of the toilet base, near the floor. These bolts secure the toilet to the flange.
Remove the plastic caps covering the bolts (if there are any). Use your wrench to loosen the nuts holding the bolts in place.
Sometimes, these nuts can be rusted solid. If that’s the case, try spraying them with penetrating oil.
If they’re still stuck, you might need to use a hacksaw to carefully cut through the bolts. Be careful not to damage the flange!
Step 5: Remove the Toilet
Now for the heavy lifting! Gently rock the toilet back and forth to break the seal between the toilet and the wax ring.
Once it’s loose, carefully lift the toilet straight up. It might be heavier than you expect, so get a good grip.
Place the toilet on an old towel or piece of cardboard to protect your floor. You might want to ask someone to help you carry it outside or to another location.
Step 6: Clean Up and Prepare the Area
With the toilet out of the way, it’s time to clean up the area. Use your putty knife or scraper to remove any old caulk or wax residue from the floor and the flange.
Inspect the flange for any damage. If it’s cracked or corroded, you’ll need to replace it before installing the new toilet.
Stuff a rag into the drainpipe to prevent sewer gases from escaping.
Section 4: Troubleshooting Common Issues
Even with the best instructions, things can sometimes go sideways. Here are a few common problems you might encounter and how to fix them:
- Stuck Bolts: As I mentioned before, penetrating oil is your friend. Let it soak in for a while. If that doesn’t work, try using a bolt extractor or a hacksaw.
- Residual Water: No matter how hard you try, there’s always some water left in the toilet. Just keep soaking it up with a sponge or towel.
- Damaged Flange: If the flange is cracked, you’ll need to replace it. This can be a bit tricky, so you might want to call a plumber if you’re not comfortable doing it yourself.
- Rocking Toilet: If the toilet rocks after installation, it means the floor is uneven. Use shims to level the toilet before caulking.
- Leaking Toilet: If the toilet leaks after installation, it could be a faulty wax ring or loose bolts. Try tightening the bolts first. If that doesn’t work, you’ll need to remove the toilet and replace the wax ring.
My Personal Experience:
I once had a toilet removal job where the bolts were so rusted that I had to use a grinder to cut them off. It was a messy and time-consuming process, but I eventually got the job done. The key is to be patient and persistent.
Section 5: Conclusion
So, there you have it! Removing a toilet might seem intimidating at first, but with the right tools, a little preparation, and my step-by-step guide, you can tackle this project with confidence.
Remember to prioritize safety, take your time, and don’t be afraid to ask for help if you need it.
By following these steps, you’ll not only save money on plumber’s fees, but you’ll also gain a valuable skill that you can use for future bathroom projects.
Call to Action
Now it’s your turn! Have you ever removed a toilet before? What was your experience like? Do you have any tips or tricks to share?
Leave a comment below and let’s chat! And if you have any questions, don’t hesitate to ask. I’m here to help.
