How to Replace a Wax Ring and/or a Broken Copper Flange

Always turn off the water before you work on a toilet.

Toilets are basic devices. The connection that holds the toilet to the floor consists of two bolts that run through the base of the toilet and are held in place through a toilet flange. The connection between the toilet and the drainpipe is a wax ring that sits on top of the flange, creating a seal. Replacing the wax ring or toilet flange is a simple process. The wax ring and flange are available from any hardware parts retailer and can be installed with basic tools.

Things You'll Need

• Adjustable wrench
• Open-faced wrench
• Screwdriver
• Scraper

Instructions

1. Turn off the water and drain the toilet by flushing the system until the tank and bowl are empty. Disconnect the water supply line from the base of the toilet.

2. Remove any decorative caps covering the retaining bolts on the left and right side of the toilet bowl. Remove the nuts using an adjustable or open-faced wrench. Set the nuts and any washers to the side.

3. Lift the toilet and tank off as one piece and set the toilet on its side. Scrape off any residual wax gasket material from the toilet drain on the bottom of the bowl with a scraper or similar tool. Remove the retaining bolts that sit in the grooves on the flange, pointing upward.

4. Unscrew the retaining screws that hold the existing flange in place on the ground. Three screws in a triangle pattern anchor the flange to the ground. Remove the screws with a screwdriver and lift the flange free of the drain. Scrape off any remaining wax gasket material from the drain.

5. Place a new flange on the drain and line up the screw holes in the flange with the existing holes in the ground. Reinstall the retaining screws and tighten down the screws. Attempt to wiggle the flange, which will not move if it's properly tightened. Insert the retaining bolts into the same grooves on the new flange.

6. Press a new wax ring onto the base of the toilet with the rubber flange pointing away from the toilet. Lift up the toilet and lower it onto the flange and retaining bolts. Rock the toilet slightly from side to side to fully seat the wax ring. Attach the retaining nuts and washers that you removed in Step 2. Tighten down the nuts and reinstall any decorative caps.

References

• "Lowe's: Complete Home Improvement and Repair"; Don Vandervort; 2005