How to Move & Install a Basement Toilet
A basement bathroom can add convenience while at the same time increasing your property value. Adding a basement toilet can present some challenges, but fortunately, many factors also make it easier to relocate a bathroom toilet than a regular toilet, should the need arise. Does this Spark an idea?
Things You'll Need
- Pipe Cutter Solder Tee Fitting Round Wire Brush Flux Torch Pipe Saddle Tee Fitting Fittings Wrenches
Instructions
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How to Move and Install a Basement Toilet
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1
Turn off the water supply to the area and cut into a cold-water pipe. Select a pipe as close to the desired location for the toilet as possible. Use the pipe cutter to cut through the pipe and solder a tee fitting into the gap you have just created.
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2
Clean the tee with the round wire brush. Apply flux to the pipe as well as the inside of the tee fitting. Use the torch to heat the junction between the pipe and fitting. When the area is heated, apply the solder to the seam. The solder will be pulled into the joint by capillary action.
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3
Install piping from the new tee junction to the toilet location. (Repeat Step 2 at each junction.) Select the proper size to adapt the pipe to the model of toilet you have selected. For convenience and safety, install a shut-off valve just before the inlet to the toilet. Make certain all connections are secure.
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4
Select a toilet that fits with your desired specifications. In most basement areas you will need to install an up-flushing toilet. The Sani-Flush unit is a very sturdy and reliable model with several nice features. The unit is electric-powered and gives you the option to tie drains from a sink and tub to the unit, as well.
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5
Connect the discharge hose from the toilet unit to the nearest drain pipe. Insert a saddle tee fitting on the nearest drain pipe to accommodate the drain pipe. Check all fittings to be certain they are secure, and turn the water supply back on.
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6
To move the toilet, disconnect the water supply after turning off the shut-off valve. If possible, allow the old plumbing to remain in place for future use. Activate the unit and drain as much water from the system as possible.
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7
Remove the discharge hose from the overhead drain pipe. If at all possible, reuse this saddle tee location after relocating the toilet. You want as few interruptions in your drain line as possible.
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8
Position the toilet in the new location and repeat the installation steps from above. The up-flushing unit has many advantages, including a much simpler drain connection system than the standard toilet. This makes relocation much easier.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Keep the discharge hose as short and as straight as possible to help prevent flow problems and possible clogs.
Use caution when disconnecting the discharge hose, as there will be residual waste water in the hose.
