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When it comes to plumbing repairs, some household nuisances can turn into fun and challenging DIY projects. For example, if water is leaking out around the base of the toilet, you might need to replace the wax ring. If you’re eager to take on this home improvement, use the following guide to light your way.

DIY Plumbing Tips: 3 Steps to Replacing a Toilet Wax Ring

1. Drain & Remove the Toilet

plumbingOnce you’ve shut off the water supply, flush the bowl and use a sponge or a wet/dry vacuum to empty remaining water. Then, disconnect the water supply hose from the tank, and empty any water inside it into a bucket. Unscrew the nuts that are securing to the toilet to the floor—you may need to use penetrating oil to soften corroded bolts. Finally, place wooden blocks on the floor so that the toilet will have room to drain. Lift the toilet while keeping it parallel to the floor, and place it down on the blocks. Once it’s stable, make sure the old wax ring isn’t stuck to the drain.

2. Replace the Ring

While wearing latex gloves, remove the old wax ring, and plug the drain with rags to prevent sewer gas from infiltrating your home. Use a plastic knife to get rid of any leftover wax around the anchor flange or drain. You may need to use a cloth and mineral spirits to loosen residual wax. Then, take off the mounting bolts and make sure the anchor flange is in good condition. If everything is in shape, you can insert the new mounting bolts. Finally, place the new wax ring around the bottom of the toilet drain, and press it in place.

3. Reinstall the Toilet

Once the wax ring is installed, lift the toilet so that the bowl drain hovers right over the floor drain. Then, you can lower it into position so that the mounting screws enter the base holes. To ensure a tight seal, rock the toilet gently back and forth. Once the base is in the proper position, you can connect the washers and nuts to secure the toilet until it no longer tilts in any direction. To finish it off, secure the ornamental caps.

 

If you’d like to have a hand in plumbing repairs such as this one, consider enrolling in Berk Trade and Business School of Long Island City, NY. They are happy to train students in competitive fields like the electrical, automotive, and plumbing industries, and they’ve been teaching first-rate skills for over 70 years. When you enroll in classes, you’ll benefit from small group sizes, flexible hours, and help with finding a job after graduation. To learn more about their accredited programs, visit the website, or call (718) 729-0909 for admissions questions.

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