How to Cap a Basement Toilet

Cap off toilet pipes to prevent odors.

Open basement toilet pipes create a number of problems around the home. Specifically, they allow sewer odors to penetrate the interior, raising the potential for sewage backup. If you have a toilet in the basement that you no longer use, cap off the line after uninstalling it. Installing the pipe cap requires nothing more than basic tools, and you won't need professional help.

Things You'll Need

• Wrench
• Putty knife
• Rubber pipe cap
• Screwdriver

Instructions

1. Turn off the water flow to the toilet by locating the knob on the wall behind the toilet and turning it completely clockwise. Fush the toilet to remove the water from the tank.

2. Look at the back of the toilet to locate the flexible water supply line and unscrew the nut that attaches it to the base of the toilet. You may need a wrench to loosen the nut.

3. Examine the base of the toilet and locate the floor bolts, which may be under plastic caps. Place the wrench around the nut on each bolt and turn counterclockwise to loosen. Lift the nuts off the bolts and set aside.

4. Grasp the sides of the toilet and pick it up off the floor. You may need an assistant to help you. Set the toilet out of the way.

5. Examine the floor to locate the wax ring remnants and scrape them off, using the putty knife. Place the material into the trash.

6. Locate the rubber portion of the pipe cap and turn it so the cupped portion faces down. Slide the cap over the top of the toilet pipe as far as it will go.

7. Slide the metal band over the top of the rubber cap and lower it a half-inch from the top rim. Pull the free end of the metal band tight, then tighten the screw with the screwdriver to secure the cap in place.

References

• North Dakota State University; Plug Drains to Keep Sewage Backup Out; Carl Pedersen; 2010
• Jon Eakes: Capping Off a Toilet Drain