How to Change a Wax Ring

A wax ring is used between the toilet and the closet flange to ensure a watertight seal between the toilet and the sewer line. There are a number of reasons the wax seal may break from the toilet, including uneven floors, a settling foundation or improper initial installation. Replacing the wax ring is also recommended any time the toilet is removed. Failing to replace the wax ring could result in a water leak or water damage to the floor around the toilet.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• New wax toilet ring
• Pliers
• Plumber's putty
• Bucket
• Cardboard

1. Turn the water supply off and completely drain the tank by flushing the toilet tank. Remove the water supply line from the bottom of the tank by turning the bolt counter clockwise.

2. Remove the nuts and bolts on each side of the toilet near the floor. The bolts can be found by removing bolt covers or bolt caps at the base of the toilet on each side and are what holds the toilet to the floor. Pull the toilet upward to remove and place on cardboard out of the work area.

3. Completely clean old wax ring from the base of the toilet and from around the toilet drain by scraping with a spatula or old butter knife.

4. Place a new wax ring at the toilet drain on the floor. Press the wax ring into place to create a watertight seal and to ensure the new wax ring will not move when replacing the toilet.

5. Reseat the toilet by pressing the toilet against the wax ring to ensure a water tight seal against the floor and the toilet. Align the bolts with the toilet and replace nuts and caps. Bolt caps can be secured and sealed with plumber's putty.

Tips & Warnings

• Get someone to help you lift the toilet. Toilets weigh 50 pounds or more and are made of vitreous china that could easily break or scratched.

References

• How To Replace the Wax Ring
• How to Change a Toilet Bowl Wax Ring