How Do I Know If the Toilet Wax Ring Needs Replacing?

A bad wax ring can make a bathroom unpleasant.

The wax ring is one of the most important parts of a sanitary, functioning toilet. This part of the toilet is responsible for connecting the toilet to the water pipes. Should something go wrong with the wax ring, it will cause problems ranging from bad odors to mold growth. If you suspect a malfunctioning wax ring, there are some telltale signs to help you determine if the ring really does need to be replaced.

Instructions

1. Touch the floor around the base of the toilet. If there is moisture on the floor, it could be a sign of a bad wax ring. However, the moisture could also be condensation from the outside of the bowl.

2. Smell the bathroom for an odor of sewage. If the wax ring is bad, a sewage smell may leak through the pipes.

3. Grab the bowl firmly and try to shake it back and forth. If the toilet moves even slightly, the wax ring may be bad.

4. Check the ceiling located directly below the toilet if the bathroom is on an upper floor. There may be moisture or even a steady drip if the wax ring is bad.

References

• Toiletology: Wax Ring
• Hammer Zone: Replacing a Wax Ring