What Are Some of the Reasons for Replacing the Wax Ring on a Toilet?
You may have never seen a wax ring on a toilet. This is because it is mounted on the underside of the toilet to create a watertight seal to the drain flange in the floor. A wax ring may last the life of the toilet and never need to be replaced. A wax ring that was not compressed correctly during installation may cause problems down the road, such as sewer gas odors and water leaks. Replacement of a wax ring involves complete removal of the toilet. Does this Spark an idea?
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Water Leaks
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Water leaks around the base of a toilet may be a good indication that the wax ring is the culprit. There may be other causes of such a leak. Heavy condensation on the outside of the toilet tank may drip down the sides and back of the toilet, making it appear that the wax ring is bad. A leaky fitting on the water supply hose to the underside of the tank may also cause such symptoms. A wax ring is not expensive --- less than five dollars at home centers as of April 2011 --- but make sure the wax ring is the problem before you replace it.
Sewer Gas Odor
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Sewer gas is present is most drainpipes and is caused by the decomposition of waste. Sewer gas is dangerous, due to its explosive nature, and can cause breathing problems. You may have a leaky wax ring under your toilet if you notice any sewer gas odors in the area around the toilet.
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Replace Flooring
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The replacement of the flooring material in the bathroom may require removal of the toilet. Replacement flooring that is merely cut away to fit around the toilet does not look professional. Flooring that continues under the edges of the toilet gives a more professional and finished look. The wax ring is compressed when the toilet is first installed, so it is wise to replace the ring every time the toilet is removed.
Loose Toilet Mounting
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A toilet that rocks back and forth --- even minutely --- may be compromising the seal around the wax ring. Once a wax ring has been compressed during the installation of the toilet, it may be impossible to get a good seal again. A toilet that rocks back and forth may be compressing the seal lower on one side, so even if the toilet-to-flange bolts were tightened down, there is a good chance the wax ring will not seal to the underside of the toilet properly.
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