Our Plumbers Guide On How To Install Plumbing For A Toilet Properly
For those of us who are considering a new toilet installation, the odds of doing it properly can seem a bit overwhelming. Not sure what equipment, fittings and tools you need? Unsure about how you need to replace your toilet? Help is at hand! With the right advice from our helpful team of government-licensed and expert plumbers from Plumber To The Rescue, you can fit a new toilet like a pro; fingers crossed!
So say goodbye to that cracked and stained old cistern that uses up gallons of clean water just flushing. Our crack team of plumbing tradies have compiled our ultimate guide to help you through the process of fitting in a new toilet.
Here at Plumber To The Rescue, we have been a dependable team of plumbers for more than 35 years, at your service day or night to give you plumbing solutions. So, if you’re looking for a step-by-step guide to installing the toilet, you’re in the right place. If you are looking for a plumber Ashfield residents rave about who works Sydneywide and who goes that extra mile, you’ve found us!
Key points
- DIY toilet fitting with the correct advice from expert plumbers
- Figure out which toilet is most suited to your available space and budget
- See if there is an eco-friendly option to reduce water use
- Measure your area twice, in addition to the size and shape of the toilet needed
- Get all of your materials together prior to beginning work
- Remove the old toilet and make the area clean and ready for the new installation
- Make sure your floor surface is completely flat and stable
Knowing When To Change Your Toilet
Has that time come when you just know you need to change your toilet? Are there leaks and stains all over the toilet pan that look unsightly and won’t go away no matter how much you clean them? You may need to install a new toilet to resolve these issues.
Maybe you’ve noticed a discernable totter when you’re on the toilet, as it groans and wobbles, indicating you might need to replace a toilet. The time may have finally approached for you to change your toilet to a newer model.
It could even be that the flush handle has stopped flushing anything long ago, and there are numerous leaks, which will add to your hefty water bill Watch out for these and other signs of when the time is right to make the change.
It goes without saying that if you own your own property, you decide, along with local authority plumbing codes, what work you would like to do whilst DIY plumbing. Of course, if you rent a property, you may have to seek out your landlord’s permission for him to get the work done by a professional plumber for tenancy contract reasons.
Either way, if you live in a Strata unit, you will need to work only with a safe and approved plumbing provider Plumber To The Rescue are Strata-certified plumbers for all aspects of plumbing work.
What can signal a problem with your loo?
At times, it’s more than dirty water pan marks that won’t lift or a dodgy flush mechanism that signals it’s time to alter our model of toilet. There are more serious signs that can, if left unresolved, cause more serious issues with your household water system.
One thing that can often signal an issue with your toilet is incessant clogging. If your toilet seems to constantly choke up, having to unblock it on a regular basis could be cause for concern. Perhaps your toilet has some internal issue in its poor manufacture, which is causing the obstruction and issues flushing. Also, it can be that the toilet itself is badly fitted, the flanges and wax seals are not aligned, or an amateur plumber has badly fitted it.
However, it could also signify that there is a deeper underlying issue with where the toilet effluence is flowing out. There could be a problem with your drainage system, and often, the only way to figure this out properly is to have a CCTV drainage inspection, which we are happy to inspect at Plumber To The Rescue.
Making The Most Of A Water Saving Model Of Toilet
At the end of the day, if you are going to spend your time, effort and expense fitting in a new toilet, then at least look into buying a water-saving toilet. There are a number of toilets available now on the market that use minimal amounts of clean water stored up in the cistern to flush the toilet next time. Sometimes, it’s the mechanism of the flush itself which has been redesigned to be more efficient and reach all areas of the bowl more effectively, every single flush.
Or perhaps you like the idea of a dual-flush toilet with a sink on top. The toilet has a dual flush mechanism with a low-level flush, but where the button on the system would be usually placed, instead, there is a small sink with a tap. When you flush the toilet, the clean water that would go into the cistern comes flowing out of the tap in order for you to wash your hands. When you have washed your hands, this soapy grey water is used to fill up the cistern for the next time you flush the toilet.
Preparation Using The Correct Tools And Products
First and foremost, remember you must abide by local codes and standards in fitting a clean and safe system. Always have a look into the local government legislation for your area and the type of toilet you want to fit in. That it is safe and legal to do yourself.
To begin with, ensure that you have all the materials and tools that you will need. Put them close at hand and draw up a list. Installing a toilet is expensive work at times, especially sourcing individual items without a tradies discount like professional plumbers have. However, in the end, putting in your new toilet will add comfort and even some value to your home.
So your list will obviously have a toilet, additional wax ring, tape to measure, pencil, sealant, utility knife, crowbar or lever, sponge and alcohol wipes. In addition to a hack-saw, pliers, plastic bucket, screwdriver and appropriately sized spanner.
Saw through and loosen the old pipe and any parts, including the toilet bolts, to prepare for the new installation. Your tape prevents leaks from coming through, whatever the temperature. In the interests of hygiene, we use gloves and cleaning rags, too, which can be disposed of at the end of your fitting.
In selecting a toilet, make sure that the exact spaces in the old pan fit and are compatible with the new model. Ensure that there is enough space available around the bowl and base for access, cleaning and maintenance There are lots of sources of inspiration to be found online, but keep in mind fittings size, budget and your available space.
You may also choose to check the drain where the flowing water will enter the sewer. It is advisable to clear this through a plumbing service. If you are unsure or want this checked with CCTV equipment, please call.
Measure Everything At Least Twice
If you’re renovating an old shower room or spare toilet, getting the measurements correct down to the millimeter is your priority. Especially important if you have an old or outdated toilet system. Sometimes, these measurements were given in inches, whereas many now use the more modern metric units of measurement in millimeters.
Though intended to have a useful lifespan of only about 10 years, many toilets seem to go on well past this time. Particularly old toilets, as they had parts that were made to last and parts easily replaceable.
To the millimeter, check twice the measurement of where the old toilet was placed. Here in Australia, toilets generally have approximately a 130mm-180mm width at their base, Although, with new designs inspired by international toilets, these sizes are subject to change. Whatever this size is for your old toilet, it’s best to get something with the same size to replace it.
Check the approximate sizes and then recheck to be sure.
There is a measurement called the ‘rough-in’ measurement, which, put simply, is the space from the outlets’ centre to the wall behind. If this measurement is not done correctly, it can spell disaster for an easy fitting. It is hard to re-iterate just how accurate this measurement must be and how compatible with your new toilet. Bear in mind that out-of-line walls or floors may skew this measurement completely.
Most traps’ here in Australia are around 140mm. So, as a simple rule, don’t get this measurement wrong at any cost. If you do, then simply call us, and we will be out to plumb in your new toilet in next to no time. That’s because we have an arsenal of tools, plumbing products and supplies in our vans that we carry with us. So we are able to easily match up any discrepancy you may encounter between your measurements and your toilet.
Make sure your toilet pan and the cistern fit.
Whatever happens, you need to get a toilet that fits. For just replacing the pan for the toilet, ensure it fits snugly to the old parts still left in situ. They have to work together and fit perfectly in order to function properly as a flushing toilet unit.
Otherwise, the system will leak, and the complete cistern will not entirely fill. The bowl will not flush properly and will leave a messy residue, plus the floor may become sodden with water As of note, check the height too of the cistern and that it fits perfectly with the older pieces of the fitting that are left.
The available space around the toilet matters, too, as this is where all of its access room, maintenance, and cleaning will take place in this area for the toilet cistern. It would appear that the shape of the toilet bowl is of some significance, too, when considering the overall design of the toilet suite. Oval bowls are most suited to the average adult, whereas round bowls are better for the shorter person, so kids and maybe old people. Hexagons and even squares are available as designers have gone to town to give the bog standard toilet as much designer flair as possible.
Take Away The Old Toilet
Nearly time to begin putting in the new installation. But prior to doing so, go over the area and remove any grout, cement, old screws, bolts, wood, putty, caulk or silicone sealant.
Once these have all been removed, use alcohol wipes or something similar to clean up the whole area, making it hygienic and flat. Be careful to get rid of the old toilet in the right way, don’t just yank and pull!
Turn the water supply to the off position.
Turn the water supply to the off position. There may be a stop-cock located in the vicinity. Turn the valve on the water supply will stop the line allowing the water to flow out. When the shut-off valve is turned clockwise, the water will cease to flow. Check this first before even attempting to remove the toilet fitting.
Disconnect your water!
Once the water has been shut off, empty the bowl and cistern by flushing the toilet. If there is any water remaining that has leaked or dripped, use old rags to clean it up. Keep your wrench close at hand, as many Australian toilets need a wrench to fully turn off the toilet cistern supply line because of its ordinary lack of use. Plus, it’s a good idea to keep an old bowl or plastic bucket to collect excess water.
Take the old toilet out by removing the holding bolts
It can be easy at this stage to rush into dismantling all of the old toilet parts. But first, empty the bowl of any remaining water; in Australia, this amounts to about 2/3rds of toilets.
Remove the caps and other fixings at the base of the toilet, including nuts and bolts. Now, a lot of these metal fixings may be a bit rusty, so use a hack-saw if needed. With hardly any force, move the base and rock the toilet in small movements in order to penetrate the seal, as it has been stuck to the floor for a long time.
Try to rope a mate into helping, as lifting an average loo weighs around 60 lbs, so it’s hard to move and maneuver by yourself. Around half of the time, it’s also possible to uncouple the tank from the bowl, which will make the whole exercise a lot easier and lighter to do, whether with a mate or by yourself.
Don’t panic if the toilet seems a bit stuck in place Or if your old toilet was cemented into the floor. Just call us a Plumber To The Rescue, and we will be with you in no time to repair and make good on this area and fit in your new toilet.
Ensure A Clean And Flat Area For The New Toilet
Once you’ve removed the old toilet, making the area for the new one to be fitted clear of all debris and adhesives, it’s time to get to work installing the new one.
Begin with taking out the wax ring that was sealing the old toilet. Inspect the area thoroughly for anything that looks loose or broken. Ensure that the floor is level and clear in readiness for the flange that will be fitted.
Get rid of the old waxed rim.
To begin with, remove that old ring; it will be gummed up, smelly and waxy. We recommend carefully peeling off the wax ring and plying it away with a putty or craft knife. It is unclean, unnecessary and un-reusable, so dispose of it carefully. Thoroughly clean the floor area around the drain hole and the flange parts in particular.
A damaged flange needs replacing!
Closely examine the flange fitting for any unanticipated flaws or damage. It must at all times be snugly attached to your floor. If there is any visible flaw, like a crack or part broken off, it has to be replaced; this is not negotiable.
The reason for this is that a corrupt flange will not be able to provide a good seal. In this case, it will allow water to leak out of an area that should be hermetically sealed. Don’t gamble all of your hard work installing a new toilet only to have it spoiled by leaking water from a damaged flange seal.
Make sure your flange is flat and level.
The eye can be deceiving when we are weighing up whether something is truly level or not. Furthermore, the floors can skew this appearance of what is level, as well as walls that are out, even by a matter of 1mm. We recommend measuring for accuracy with a spirit level. The flange should be on an even surface approximately 6mm-10mm from the floor level for the correct fitting.
Flanges fitted that don’t conform to this standard run the risk of not creating the correct seal and might permit water leaks or contribute to bad smells and water damage. Always use shims or levelling compounds to get the floor level. Fix the new flange in place; never leave the old one in situ.
Fixing In The New Toilet
The old toilet has been disposed of, and there is a space clear and level just waiting for your new toilet to be installed. Fit the waxy ring first and check that the level is correct. Then, put the toilet tank where it fits snugly over the flange and wax ring. Couple up the flush pipe, adding the line for the water supply. This will make sure you don’t get any leaks and have a good full-watered flush facility in operation.
Find the correct position for your new wax rim.
You have now put the flange in place or, as some homeowners prefer, a wax-free option made of silicone. It is seen as a less sticky and, therefore, tidier option when handling. In all honesty, the ring is rarely handled, so it shouldn’t make a difference when you install the toilet. Either option is okay as long as a proper tight seal is made.
Check the ring, either silicone or positioned in the exact middle of the flange, for an ideal fit. Bear in mind almost 2/3rds of toilet leaks are caused by the seal not being installed and fitted in the correct space, or on level and clear surfaces.
Line up and make sure your new toilet is secure.
Accurately place the toilet bowl above the flange and gently attach the toilet in place. Make use of the closet bolt fittings to line everything up as it should for the toilet tank. Push slightly with very little force on the bowl to make sure that the wax ring becomes solidly sealed.
Place washers on the bolts and nut fittings. Then, tighten up the tank bolt a little slowly to hold your toilet in place. Don’t overtighten these nuts, as it can break the thread of the nut and, more importantly, damage the actual porcelain. Judge and measure until you get a straight-looking toilet that you are happy with.
Flush pipe needs to now be connected.
Following this, you need to place the cistern over the pan area. Check again that it is a snug fit and that everything is undamaged and fits nicely. Our flush pipe will now be connected, bringing together the water from the cistern into the pan to create the flush we are all so familiar with.
At each stage, check everything is level and that all the seals are tightly in situ, this connection is perhaps the most relevant thing to remember when fitting and fixing in your new toilet.
Carefully attach the water supply.
As you have now made the connection between the cistern and the water supply, you can finally try a flush! Turning the water supply line back onto the on position, I hear the cistern fill with water in anticipation of the next flush. After allowing the cistern to become full, press the handle or button to commence the toilet flush mechanism.
Be on the lookout for any leaking water. Even a tiny drip or a trickle could signal an incorrectly sealed toilet. Should you discover a leak of water you will have to trace it back to its source, which is often the sealing or metal nuts and bolts which require adjusting.
By following these guidelines, we estimate it should take you a whole day to fit and fix your new toilet. Perhaps between 4-7 hours. Again, if at any point you’re unsure, call out one of our experts to help,
Finish Your Installation
You have come to the final part of your actual installation now that the water is connected, as well as the nuts, bolts, flange and waxy ring. Recheck that all of the flappers and gaskets are working as they should and that there is no debris inside the cistern, which could lead to water obstruction at a later date.
Complete the job professionally by attaching a seat for the toilet. This is for hygiene and comfort and is a simple and gratifying process after a hard day working on a heavy toilet fitting!
Putting on the toilet seat
Always read the seat manufacturer guide first. Although certain models may differ in their fitting, most models will come with all the attachments you will need.
Usually, though, it’s as simple as placing the seat in place, putting the screws, washers and bolts through and gently tightening these by hand. These fixings can be either metal or even extra durable plastic construction. Both are suitable for fixing the seat in place.
Always do a flow test and examine for any leaks.
To check that you are happy with the way that everything is working and before signing off on a toilet fitting job, check the flush. So wait until the tank fills with water, push the button or pull the handle for flushing and check for any water egress.
If the cistern takes a very long time to fill, it could be that you have accidentally left a plastic wrapper in the cistern, so it cannot fill properly so just double-check. Inspect for leaks at the waterline and the base of the toilet fitted.
Any leaks need to be fixed immediately; if you can’t trace the source of the water leak and therefore cannot fix it, call one of our team who will rush out to you and resolve your leaky loo. If you let even a tiny drip go unrepaired, it could potentially lead to future water damage and an expensive repair bill.
Apply silicone sealant or caulk around the base of the toilet
Some very convincing arguments applying some sort of silicone sealant or caulk around the base of the toilet is often a prudent idea. Not only does it help to keep a seal between the base and the floor, but it also helps hold the toilet in place.
In addition, it creates a nice, clean-looking finish after you install the toilet. Plus, it means that germs and water from the base cannot get out onto the floor of the toilet area.
You should always wait a few days after the toilet has been in place and sealed entirely for a few days, before applying any sealant or caulk. Also, if there are any persistent issues you don’t want to be applying, then you have to remove the caulk or sealant to examine the toilet base.
To apply the caulk, it’s best to use a gloved finger or the back of a spoon. It can give a very neat edge to your caulk or sealant, removing any excess while it’s still wet and malleable.
Ran Into A Problem?
Following installation, there may be some common issues that you encounter. Maybe you have a totter toilet seat or a small leak from the area behind the toilet on the floor.
Don’t ignore these seemingly small problems; if left unchecked, they may produce water damage, water staining and even erosion! At any rate, it will create a bigger bill and headache to get repaired by a plumber at a later date.
The wobbly toilet
Some people who fit their own toilet experience an amount of tottering of their toilet. This is often very easily repaired. Our checklist would look like this:
- Check that all of the bolts are securely fitted by simply tightening the toilet seat bolts or toilet base bolts.
- Inspect the floor that is under the toilet as this needs to be level and flat. If there is unevenness of any sort this needs addressing and repairing before re-fitting the toilet unit.
- Make sure that the bolts are tight but haven’t been overtightened a bit too much, as this could have literally cracked the porcelain itself and needs repair or replacement.
- Have you applied flexible sealant to the base of the toilet? If not, consider doing so, as this will make the toilet more tolerant of movement and absorb some of the wobbling that may occur from use.
The leaky loo and how to prevent it
Often, there may be a residual leak between the floor and the loo itself. These leaks can create problems in the future, water damage and a slip hazard. Makes these checks:
- Is the wax or silicone ring in the correct position so there is an effective seal between the drain and the toilet?
- Was the ring properly positioned to cover the drainage hole? Getting this bit wrong is not optional, so if not, then get a new ring and do the job correctly to ensure the seal.
- Are flange fixing bolts snugly tightened? If this is not the case, you need to fix it fast, as the toilet cannot have an intact seal and flush if the wax ring is compromised.
- If leaks recur, check the flange. It may need repair or replacement or perhaps was not placed correctly.
All leakage signals that there is an unresolved plumbing issue that needs urgent attention. Leaving the problem runs the risk of water damage, water stains, erosion and, of course, slip hazards. If you don’t know how to sort this out, you need to call in the experts at Plumber To The Rescue, who will have your toilet up and running and leak-free for years of service.
Adhere Closely To Plumbing Legislation
When DIY plumbing a toilet in Australia, being aware of local legislation about water working standards is essential. In order to keep water-sparing measures and help preserve Australia’s water system, toilets need to have a flush of 6.5 litres for a long flush and 3.5 litres for a short flush. Even taps and shower fitments mustn’t use more than 9 litres of water per minute.
Often, tap and shower heads that are newly manufactured will have this design implemented in their manufacture. These are all water-saving devices drawn up to preserve the supply of water. Some properties are also fitted with a water meter, so it becomes even more relevant when every drop of water is being monitored and billed accordingly.
If your property’s water system is efficient, it may be granted a Water Efficiency Certificate. So when installing a new toilet, it is a good idea to bear this in mind. Also, our licensed plumbers will make sure that your toilet fitting abides by plumbing works codes, is right up to date, and saves on our precious water with the new toilet suite.
Fitting in new water-sparing technologies is optional with some plumbing works and in certain areas. So, it’s a good idea to keep water efficiency and the knock-on effect this has on plumbing legislation in mind. To ensure compliance and the ecology of Australias’ water systems in balance.
To Conclude
The purpose of this toilet installation guide, which was compiled by our seasoned plumbing teams, has been to show you how to DIY plumb in your toilet. We have also highlighted the need to adhere to local and national codes when performing safe and sanitary plumbing works.
It is always a good idea to focus on health and safety when doing your DIY plumbing installation of a toilet and dispose of your old toilet in a legally compliant manner.
Be aware that it’s not easy work, so if you have any issues lifting and carrying, bending or seeing small measurements on a tape, it might not be the thing for you. That putting in a toilet is always best left to our professionals at Plumber To The Rescue, even if your DIY skills are pretty good. We are available 24/7, every day of the year. Trust us with your toilet!
For a smooth installation, call in our experts. We will help manage the whole process and get discounts with plumbers and builders merchants as we are in the trade. Also, we know what models fit with your space, budget and existing plumbing. All the time we are working within plumbing laws and fixing any issues we run into, like a cracked pipe or clogged toilet drain. We have the right tools for the job, too.
Our guide gives the simplest and most basic considerations to think of. There are plenty more we couldn’t fit into this article and that are relevant for some properties and homeowners only. So monitoring water pressure, for example, might be relevant to your existing water working system, especially when installing the toilet. Ultimately, well done for even considering this plumbing task, which can present a lot of issues to the adventurous DIY plumber.
FAQ
What should I look out for when replacing my toilet?
If your toilet is often gummed up, has cracks in the pan or cistern, is a bit leaky or is an older type of toilet design, it might need replacing.
Are there any special tools I need to do the job?
Some tools are required for this work: a wax or silicone ring, a toilet obviously, measuring tape, spirit level, putty or craft knife, pry bar, plastic bucket, old rags, screwdriver, gloves, hack-saw, wrench, plumbers tape and sealant. You will also need builders’ rubbish bags.
There are a lot of other things, too, but these are the absolute essentials.
Measuring for a new toilet
Measure the distance from the wall to the middle point of the floor drain. This will give you the rough-in size measurement. In Australia, this is most often measured to be, on average, 140mm but can be up to 185mm. Make sure your new toilet fits into this size.
Getting rid of the old toilet
Before doing anything, disconnect the water supply pipe connected to the existing toilet. Then flush and drain the old toilet. Unscrew your water supply, unscrewing the nuts and bolts located on the base of the toilet unit. If the metal fixings are rusty use a hack-saw to cut through them, then carefully remove the toilet unit.
How to get rid of the old wax ring
Wearing rubber gloves, carefully lever off the old wax ring with a putty or craft knife from the flange. It will be messy and sticky, probably smelly, too, so throw it away straight away.
Installing the new loo
Place a new waxed ring upon the flange, and situate the toilet over the bolts so it all fits together as it should. Apply gentle but firm and consistent pressure, screwing the nuts and washers in a slow but steady manner, and do not overtighten anything.
Connect the cistern with the flush pipe and the water line must be attached at this point also.
Should I do anything special after installation?
Place the seat on the toilet and allow the cistern to fill. You will be able to hear when it stops filling. Flush it, then repeat this process a number of times so that you can satisfy yourself that everything works perfectly.
Be vigilant about leaking water. If you choose to use a flexible sealant of caulk, wait until a few days after the toilet fitting.
Fixing a toilet that wobbles
Check the bolts and nuts are screwed on with just the right amount of pressure to keep the unit stable. Also, inspect the wax or silicone ring to check a good seal has been added. If the underlying floor is uneven, use shims or self-levelling compound repair to get your floor as flat as possible.
Bear in mind when installing a toilet in Australia
Inform yourself and abide by all of the local and national plumbing regulations regarding DIY plumbing in a toilet. Keep an eye on water efficiency when choosing your next toilet and doing the work to install it correctly.
Plumber To The Rescue will know all of this off the bat as we work to these legal codes every day and are fully trained. Give us a call and see how we can help you.