Replacing a Toilet Wax Ring: Part One

Heather Kane • March 2, 2018

remove-toilet-wax-ring-toilet-0-remove-toilet-fill-valve-nut Let’s start with the basics: what exactly is a toilet wax ring? It’s precisely what it sounds like; a sticky, waterproof ring that makes a seal between the bottom of the toilet and the sewer pipe.

Over time, these sticky rings can go bad and need to be replaced. Most will last up to thirty years, but sometimes the rings can fail by drying out or crumbling. When this happens, water will leak out the bottom of the toilet or the toilet will feel a bit wobbly.

Replacement of the wax ring is super simple and cheap. The rings can be found at hardware stores and you’ll just need basic tools: paper towels or towels, a putty knife, a bucket, and an adjustable wrench.

To start the replacement, disconnect the water supply line that comes in through the wall. Then flush the toilet to let out as much water as possible. You’ll either have to suction out the remaining water with a wet/dry vac or remove the water with towels so the bowl is completely dry.

Now take an adjustable wrench and and remove the bolts and washers at the base of the toilet. Then gently rock and twist the toilet to help loosen it. Next, get a tight grip at the center of the toilet so the weight is distributed evenly, pull the toilet up, and set it to the side.

You might also like

Home Plumbing Tricks

By Heather Kane • August 25, 2021
We’re in business for one reason – to help you with any and all plumbing needs. But we know your money and time are hard-earned, and if we can help you avoid an unnecessary visit, we want to do that. There are a few preventative measures you can take so that you can save your call for the big problems. As a general rule, seeing water anywhere water isn’t supposed to be is never a good thing. Don’t shrug it off – take a second look. Around the base of a toilet, under a sink, spots in a first-floor ceiling under the bathroom…all could be indicators of a leak easily fixed if it’s caught early enough. If you never heard it from your parents, you likely heard it from a landlord – please don’t pour grease down the drain! It may take a little more time and effort to get that bacon fat into the garbage, but it’s more than worth it to keep your pipes clean and clear. It doesn’t take much to build up and cause some big problems. Ever wonder why those pipes under the sink are curved? They keep sewer gas from leaking into your home, while still allowing water to pass and drain. Most people store cleaning supplies and other household items under sinks, but that can turn into a headache. Over time, those pipes can get knocked loose, allowing gases and water to leak slowly into your home. It’s a good idea to find some closet or pantry space to store those supplies. Finally, never attempt a big and/or complicated plumbing job yourself. There are projects that are better left to the professionals, and we would love to help you. Not sure if you need us? Give us a call! We’d love to discuss your plumbing questions!

Attic Insulation

By Springfield Marketing Services • April 10, 2019
SIMPLE CHANGES TO YOUR ATTIC CAN SAVE YOU MONEY EVERY MONTH

Shower fixture maintenance

By Springfield Marketing Services • April 8, 2019
Keep your home in top shape with regular maintenance and professional care. A small leak can grow into a major problem if you don't take care of it quickly.
More Posts

Book a Service Today

Share by: