How to replace a toilet: step-by-step instructions on how to replace a toilet with your own hands

Plumbing in the bathroom breaks down quite often. There may be many reasons for this, but the outcome is always the same - the equipment must be replaced. This is where the main question arises: how to replace a toilet with your own hands efficiently and without unnecessary movements?

Good preparation is the key to successful work. Get the necessary set of tools, related materials and detailed instructions for beginners. By following the recommendations outlined in the article and taking into account possible mistakes, you will be able to cope with replacing the toilet yourself.

Related materials

In addition to a set of tools, before changing the toilet with your own hands, you need to purchase building materials for installation, including:

• pipe for connecting to the water supply system;
• sealant;
• corrugated pipe for connection to the sewer riser;
• tap;
• FUM tape;
• fasteners.

When exchanging a toilet - an old product for a new one - the main point is to ensure a reliable seal. Any loose connection or gap may result in a leak. When connecting a plumbing fixture to a sewer system, the best solution is to use silicone sealant in a cylinder.

Before replacing a toilet in an apartment or house, you should purchase plastic corrugated pipe products to connect it to the pipeline that discharges wastewater. This product is convenient because it is flexible and suitable in most cases. When bending, the corrugation can take different positions, compressing and stretching. It is suitable for both horizontal outlet and angled outlet.

To seal the joints, use sealing tape or do it the old fashioned way, using tow. The set of fastening elements includes screws, bolts, dowels, nuts, washers, plugs for connecting all components and carrying out installation work. If any fasteners are missing, they can be purchased additionally.

Specifics of connection without corrugation

A corrugated adapter is not needed if the plumbing product was purchased in advance and the sewer outlet was organized taking into account the type of release of a particular model.

In this case, the connection occurs using a rigid elbow, which has no unevenness on the inside and is not prone to blockages.

It is necessary to take into account the following features when installing using a plastic pipe:

• Distortions in the structure are unacceptable, as they lead to leaks;
• Joints and connections must be lubricated with silicone grease;
• The pipes are shortened using a hacksaw.

The ideal option is to connect the toilet directly to the sewer, when the dimensions of the outlet coincide with the sewer inlet in height, angle of inclination and diameter. In this case, adapters are not needed.

Preparatory work for installation

Regardless of what will cover the floor (tiles or regular screed), you need to wait time for the mixture to dry on the floor surface. This will take about a week. This is due to the fact that the toilet is fixed using fasteners and dowels, which require a reliable and solid base. In this situation, the hardened solution will act as a similar base.

Next, you should prepare those participating in the communication installation process. The area where the drain will be connected must be cleared of various contaminants and salt deposits in advance. Otherwise, it will not be possible to connect the toilet to the sewer riser as needed. That is, the corner or corrugation in the outlet cup will not fit tightly, and a leak will definitely appear.

A tap should also be installed at the connection point of the drain tank so that it is possible to carry out repair and cleaning work without completely turning off the water.

Positive and negative aspects of installing a wall-hung toilet.

Before you decide to install a wall-hung toilet, you need to consider the main pros and cons regarding this issue.

Positive aspects of the installation include:

• saving space occupied by the device;
• lack of an impressively sized drain leg;
• faint noise from water draining;
• extremely easy to care for.

However, we must not forget that installing a toilet with the designated design also carries a number of disadvantages, among which the following points stand out:

• the need to mount the flush cistern inside a wall or niche (otherwise the size of the projection of a wall-hung toilet will not differ from that of a standard floor-standing device);
• the likelihood of movement of sewer and water pipes;
• the need to create a special recess for the cistern.

Dismantling

Unscrew the mounting bolts

Disassembly diagram
With the old Soviet fastening method, you must first remove the bolts. They can be unscrewed or simply broken. Most often, they are no longer susceptible to the influence of the tool, so it is easier to break off the heads. Then you will have to break out the toilet itself. It is very firmly mounted into the sewer pipe, because in those days they made it to last for centuries. Having completed dismantling, you need to clear the work area for installation of a new unit. If the model is relatively new, then you won’t have to break anything. You need to unscrew the bolts, which most likely are not too rusty yet. Next, you need to disconnect the plastic pipe from the sewer system.

The need to replace the toilet

It is not always necessary to change a plumbing fixture if there are malfunctions in the sewer system. If water is constantly leaking from the tank in the bathroom, this is a serious reason to think about it.

When it drips onto the floor, and all the pipe connections are in order, then the cause of the problem is usually a chip or crack. In this situation, it is possible to eliminate the leak only temporarily; the toilet should be replaced as quickly as possible.

If water from the drain tank flows into the sewer along the wall of the bowl, then, most likely, the installation of new plumbing fixtures will not be necessary, since the cause of such a malfunction is most likely a leaky valve. Since all internal elements for flush tanks are sold separately, they only need to be replaced with new products.

Plumbing faience and porcelain are rather fragile materials that are characterized by instability to sudden temperature changes. The enamel can become covered with a network of cracks, spoiling the external aesthetic component of the device and threatening complete destruction of the bowl. If this product develops chips or other problems, the toilet should be replaced as soon as possible.

None of the toilet users can know for sure when the ceramic coating on it will not withstand and will burst under the influence of water currents, the weight of a person or as a result of internal stress. It’s good if the residents are nearby at this moment and one of them can quickly eliminate the emergency situation, otherwise the toilet of the neighbors living on the floor below will need to be repaired.

Another sign of a plumbing problem is the presence of an unpleasant odor. Most often, it is caused by improper installation of the sewer system, as a result of which the drainage stagnates in the pipes. When everything turned out to be in order with the pipeline, and the earthenware is clean, the cause of the smell should be sought in the fact that the glossy coating has begun to deteriorate.

If the integrity of the enamel is damaged and the porous structure of the sanitaryware begins to come into contact with impurities, it begins to absorb unpleasant “odors.” It will not be possible to cope with these odors, since the destruction process is irreversible. In this case, it is impossible to do without replacing the old toilet with a new one.

Another important reason for dismantling old and installing new plumbing is the planned renovation of the bathroom. Few property owners decide to keep the same fixture when changing the design of their bathroom.

Since new, more modern products appear on sale regularly, updating a bathroom with replacing plumbing fixtures can transform its interior beyond recognition. Regardless of whether you choose a classic option or an unusual model from the catalog, the process of how to properly change a toilet occurs in the same sequence.

Most common mistakes

Before changing the toilet in an apartment or house, you need to carefully study the instructions of the manufacturers of these products. It is almost impossible to avoid mistakes when dismantling and installing plumbing fixtures in the absence of relevant experience.

There are several types of plumbing work, during which novice craftsmen perform incorrect actions. Knowing them will help you avoid unpleasant surprises during installation activities.

To prevent liquid from stagnating in the sewer pipes, it is necessary to maintain a slope when installing the drainage system. According to building codes and regulations, it should be from 3 to 5 percent in the direction of the sewer riser. If the question is being considered not only of how to change the toilet, but also of moving it to another place, this should not be forgotten.

Some property owners rush to replace the toilet at the very beginning of the bathroom renovation. Experts advise avoiding such actions if possible. The fact is that earthenware plumbing is fragile and during further construction work in the room there is a high probability that it will be damaged. Therefore, it is advisable to change the toilet with your own hands as a last resort.

If a bidet is already installed in the bathroom, the hanging bowl should be positioned flush with its top edge. Only in this case the plumbing fixtures look harmonious in the interior of the room and are convenient to use.

When replacing sewer pipes, inspections must be installed. Access to hatches should always be free - you can use aesthetic doors to cover them. This requirement should not be neglected, since in the event of an emergency you will have to use audits.

Replacing an old toilet with a new one without the help of a professional is quite risky, especially if you have no experience. When installing plumbing yourself, the main thing is to take your time and follow the instructions.

Choice

Installation

Children's toilet
Most often, people do not consider choosing this device a difficult matter. The list of requirements for it is limited to convenience, lightness and, sometimes, color. Most buyers don't go further than this. But in addition to external characteristics, each model has its own technical indicators. Leading companies in the plumbing market regularly update their product range, releasing more and more interesting new products. Focusing only on the appearance and convenience of the toilet, you may soon encounter problems that will not be easy to solve. Before you make a replacement, you need to think about some characteristics.

When choosing a device, you need to take into account the size of the bathroom or toilet. For large spacious rooms, it is recommended to purchase designs with a bidet and a tank. If the size of the bathroom is very small, then you can organically fit a toilet without a tank into the space. Such models have a special built-in flushing system. They are very convenient and will save space in the room. The material used to make the unit is very important. By purchasing cheap products, the consumer runs the risk of receiving low-quality ceramics, which will very soon ruin all the pleasure of the purchase. Of all the offers for the home, it is better to choose models made of porcelain and earthenware in the middle price segment. The internal shape of the bowl is of great importance. Some of the models have a special surface that protects against splashing. The design of the flushing device is also important. It is selected taking into account the features of the communication system in the house. There are three types of such structures: vertical, oblique and horizontal. To make the right choice, you need to look at the features of the flush device in your system. Today there are many models of cisterns. It is necessary to take into account the noise level of the tank, its capacity and other indicators. You should also pay attention to the location of the tank relative to the toilet itself.

Without a tank
It is known that the simplest models are easiest to install. Usually they also do not cause any particular problems during operation. By choosing a design that is too complex, the consumer may later regret his choice. In the simplest models, most problems are associated with the drain tank, which is not difficult to repair.

Preparatory work

Of course, you remember that if you have ceramic tiles on the floor, then the floor must be level. If you neglect this detail, the toilet may split or crack. But if you don’t have tiles, then be sure to make an even screed. After completing the work, leave the floor to dry for at least three days. This is due to the fact that the toilet will be mounted using toilet dowels, and in order to securely fasten them, you will need a reliable base. So it’s better to take your time than to redo it later.

Since you are replacing the toilet yourself, you can now proceed to preparing communications:

Replacing the tank

toilet cistern installation

Replacing the toilet tank yourself is the last stage of the work associated with replacing the toilet. If we are talking about a barrel that is attached to the toilet shelf, then the pipe must be connected to the neck using a rubber cuff. This will be quite enough to ensure a strong and tight connection. One third of the rubber cuff is put on the pipe, and the remaining two thirds are turned inside out. Then this part must be pulled over the previous one. Here we get a situation where the end of the pipe is released. Then the pipe and neck are combined with each other. The inverted part of the rubber cuff is pulled over the neck. Thus, we can say that the tank is perfectly secured. No additional action is required. The rubber cuff is enough to ensure a tight connection. At the same time, it is worth checking the tightness of the cuff nozzle so that unpleasant events do not happen to the neighbors below.

attaching the toilet cistern to the toilet itself

Sometimes a situation arises when the tank is mounted a short distance from the toilet on the wall. In this case, a rubber cuff alone is not enough. You'll have to put in a little more effort and skill. In this case, a pipe is screwed to the barrel, and its opposite end is lubricated with red lead and wrapped in tow. The neck of the toilet and the pipe itself are connected by means of a cuff. It is fixed to the pipe using a thin wire. Now you can energize the flush tank and adjust the water level in it.

Thus, the work on replacing the toilet can be considered completed. As you can see, all actions do not require any special training. The work can easily be done with your own hands. Of course, if we are talking about a toilet that is installed on the floor. Otherwise, it is difficult to do without the help of a plumbing specialist. By the way, even before starting work on replacing a floor-standing toilet, you should consult with a professional. He will help you understand all the intricacies of the work. For those who are well versed in the work associated with installing plumbing, this manual will definitely help. It is also suitable for those who have never tried to do such work on their own before. Here you can find detailed instructions describing all the main stages of the work, and also attach a video showing clearly how to replace a toilet with your own hands. Many will definitely find this guide useful. In addition to the work associated with installing the barrel and the toilet itself, it provides information on how to correctly dismantle the old unit so that there are no further problems in operation. The video will help even those who decided to save money and not call specialists, although this is the first time they are dealing with this type of work. Everything is shown clearly and will be understandable to absolutely every person.

Types of connecting elements

To connect the toilet to the waste pipe, use an eccentric collar.

In many situations, to connect a toilet to a drain pipe with your own hands, an eccentric or corrugated cuff is used, which allows you to connect elements when it is not possible to connect them directly. Therefore, the toilet is not attached to the floor until a preliminary connection to the sewer is made.

Eccentric cuffs consist of 2 pipes that are soldered together, with offset centers. Due to the special structure of the eccentric, it is possible to connect the toilet outlet with the sewerage pipe or inlet pipe. Manufacturers make eccentrics of various lengths, which must be taken into account when choosing a suitable part.

Do-it-yourself installation of the eccentric to the toilet and sewer pipe is done without the use of sealants, since the tightness of the connection can be achieved using rubber seals, which are available at both ends of the cuff. A sealing problem can occur when connecting an eccentric to an old cast iron drain. To eliminate the possibility of leakage, after connecting the elements, you need to apply sealant to the area where they meet.

It is not always possible to do this using an eccentric collar, since the joining elements can move a long distance from each other. Therefore, a corrugated cuff is more often used, which can stretch to the desired length. In addition to its ability to stretch, corrugation is easily subject to deformation, which allows the craftsman to achieve the required connection angle. This is the main advantage of the corrugated cuff, which allows you to connect to the sewer with your own hands in all situations.

Dismantling

Let's say it like it is - removing the old toilet with your own hands will not be easy. There are rare occasions when it is not too securely in place and all you need to do is disconnect it from the water and sewer supplies. But if you have an ordinary apartment in, then things are not so smooth, since, as a rule, the toilet is walled up in the floor, and it is not possible to get it out of there. Then you will have to break the toilet with your own hands.

When dismantling the cast iron tee, note that it has one outlet with a diameter of 10 cm for the toilet and 7.5 cm for other sewer pipes. Since you will be replacing the pipes with plastic, you will need a 5 cm bend so that you don’t have to install a reduction in the tee

You can replace such a tee due to its large dimensions - a plastic one will be more compact. It must be removed by carefully loosening it so as not to accidentally damage the intermediate tee standing on the sewer riser.

Toilet replacement process

Installation of a hanging bowl and a hidden tank

It should be noted that the work on how to change a toilet of a conventional design to a wall-hung product with a hidden drain container yourself differs from the previous option in greater complexity. In this case, it will be necessary not only to replace the plumbing equipment, but also to repair the floor covering, build a false wall with its further finishing with tiles or other modern materials.

You have to attach the hanging bowl to a durable installation. After finishing the walls, the fixed metal frame will not be visible. When carrying out renovations in a combined bathroom, when decorating the interior, it is advisable to install a wall-mounted washbasin and a bidet of a similar design.

A detailed description of how to change a regular toilet to a wall-mounted one is as follows:

1. Mark the location of the plumbing fixture. A sewer pipe with a diameter of 110 millimeters and an inlet is connected to it.
2. Try on the purchased installation, which is a rigid frame for installation. You need to decide on the height. The standard placement is 450 millimeters from the floor to the seat and 100 millimeters from the floor covering to the bottom edge of the seat.
3. Using a marker, mark the places of fixation to the floor and wall of the bathroom so that they exactly coincide with the mounting holes.
4. They are prepared using a hammer drill and the frame is installed. Using a level, check the correctness of the installation work.
5. Water is connected to the drain tank.
6. The installation kit includes a diagram for cutting plasterboard sheets to cover the installation site. GCR is attached to the metal profile and to the installation. It is better if they are moisture resistant.
7. Finishing is carried out taking into account the personal preferences of residents.
8. When replacing a toilet bowl, it is connected to a corrugated sewer pipe and a drainage system, not forgetting the need for sealing.
9. The bowl is screwed directly to the installation frame through drywall and tile using pins.
10. The device is connected to the sewer system and the drain tank.

Despite the fact that the process of replacing an old toilet with a wall-mounted product takes a lot of time, the result of such a repair looks stylish and expensive. The work of installing an electronic plumbing fixture with the addition of automatic hygiene functions has much in common with fastening and connecting a conventional product, but there are still some nuances.

The fact is that to connect a smart wall-hung toilet, you need to provide it with power. For this purpose, a separate line is usually laid, since smart equipment is sensitive to voltage drops in the network.

Types and standards

The plumbing equipment market keeps up with the times, constantly offering customers new toilet configurations. This should not be alarmed, because, despite the wide variety, all equipment is manufactured on the basis of certain norms and standards. When dividing toilets into general groups, the following are distinguished:

• funnel-shaped design;
• toilets with shelf;
• toilets with a sloped back wall;
• equipment with horizontal drainage;
• equipment with a circular drain.

funnel-shaped

Funnel-shaped structures are considered one of the most common on the market, and their high demand is achieved due to the simplicity of the design and its hygiene.

With shelf

Toilets with a shelf are considered to be old designs that are gradually going out of use. The shelf prevents the formation of a splash during operation, but has low hygiene. Waste is washed away only under the influence of high water pressure.

With a sloped rear wall

Toilets with a sloped back wall are replacing similar products with a shelf due to a well-chosen ratio of hygiene and splash protection. Such designs are recommended for use by both professional plumbers and ordinary citizens.

Horizontal drain

Toilets with horizontal flush belong to the budget category of plumbing. In this modification, water washes only one wall, which reduces hygiene. The advantages include:

• durability;
• low cost.

The disadvantages include:

• noise during draining;
• strong splashing of water.

Circular drain

In toilets with a circular flush, water is directed in several directions of the bowl, which allows you to treat almost its entire area. The design is less noisy and more practical for horizontal models.

Preparation process

Types of pipe supply from the tank to the plumbing

When choosing a toilet, it is important to consider the type of connection of the tank to the water supply system. There are side and bottom inlets

With the lateral type of supply, the tank is connected from the side; this option is more popular.

In the lower type of supply, the tank is connected from below; this option is considered quiet and allows the pipes to be hidden from view. The sideways type is gradually pushing out of the markets.

It is necessary to purchase a suitable type of supply for the existing sewer structure if there are no plans for a major replacement of water supply pipes.

Tools you will need when replacing a toilet structure

To replace a broken toilet, you will need standard tools. The composition of the kit varies depending on the characteristics of the out-of-service plumbing, the type of toilet, the condition and location of the pipes.

You will need a hammer drill, a screwdriver and an adjustable wrench, a chisel with a hammer, a hacksaw, a rubber spatula, a measuring level, safety glasses and work gloves.

An adjustable wrench is used when connecting a water supply. A hammer drill is used to make holes in a concrete wall or floor for attaching a tank or bowl. Screwdrivers are needed to tighten screws. Silicone sealant is used to process joints.

What items to prepare in advance

To quickly dismantle and install new plumbing fixtures, you need to buy the necessary items in advance, namely a compact toilet. The composition includes rubber sealing rings, fasteners, and a tank drain device. If there is a cast iron riser installed under the toilet, you will need a chisel and hammer. When installing the bowl for accuracy, use a measuring level.

Consumables you will need when replacing plumbing fixtures

If there is a shortage of bolts, screws, washers, or dowels in the mounting kit, you can independently purchase the missing ones.

The process of dismantling an old toilet

Dismantling modern equipment will not cause many difficulties. The process of dismantling outdated plumbing has its own nuances if the sewer system consists of a cast iron pipe.

If the toilet is attached to a wooden stand, it is quite easy to remove. The stand itself is removed and the floor hole is filled with a special screed.

A step-by-step description of the dismantling of modern toilets

First of all, we limit access to water, then drain the water from the tank. We remove the remaining water using a bucket and a rag. At the bottom of the tank, unscrew the bolts and remove it, take out the corrugated pipe or plastic eccentric connecting the sewer and the bowl. It is necessary to wipe the bowl dry with a cloth or sponge. Use a wrench to unscrew the fastenings under the bowl, and it can be freely removed from the floor.

Removing a toilet installed with cement mortar

In Soviet times, the installation of plumbing was done conscientiously; the toilet was installed using cement mortar. Dismantling the plumbing will be similar as for modern toilets until the bowl is removed. Using a chisel, hammer the base of the toilet in a circle and crack the cement, then rock the toilet, use the chisel to carefully split the outlet and remove the bowl. Then remove the remaining plumbing fixtures and cement mortar from the pipe.

Choosing a new toilet

The market offers a lot of toilet models and it’s easy for a beginner to get confused among the variety of types of plumbing fixtures. In fact, there is nothing complicated here. All presented models can be divided into several types according to technological features.

Bowl shape

• visor;
• funnel-shaped;
• disc-shaped

The choice of bowl shape depends on the individual characteristics of future users of plumbing fixtures. None of the above forms have any design advantages.

Outlet form

• vertical;
• horizontal;
• oblique (angle of the drain funnel 45 degrees).

The outlet drain is a narrowing of the toilet bowl that directly ends in a sewer drain. All forms have both their advantages and disadvantages, but oblique drains are in great demand on the market.

Design of the cistern

• autonomous from the toilet;
• combined with a toilet.

Which model to choose is a matter of taste of the owner.

Attaching the device to the floor

• two attachment points;
• four attachment points;
• special corners;
• other non-standard models.

The most popular among specialists are models with four attachment points. This does not mean that other models are attached less reliably.

When choosing the toilet itself, the first technological feature that you should pay attention to is the type of flush. It must match the type of sewer drain in your toilet. If you do not plan to change the drain, select a toilet with the same type of drain as the previous one. Using adapters to connect plumbing fixtures with a different drain is strictly prohibited!

The type of cistern chosen determines what work should be done in the toilet. If the cistern is an independent, hinged one, you should take into account the mounting location and prepare the anchor.

Also keep in mind the size of the washroom. New plumbing fixtures should fit into your bathroom, not interfere with the installation of other equipment, closing the door, and leave enough free space for household members to use it comfortably.

The nuances of choosing a new plumbing fixture

Before carrying out renovations in the bathroom, you should carefully prepare for it. You especially need to think about how to change the toilet in an apartment with your own hands when the residents continue to use the toilet.

In this case, the plumbing fixtures should be changed as quickly as possible, but without proper organization of repair work this becomes impossible. First of all, they select a suitable model, prepare all the tools and building materials, and then begin to implement their plans.

The most important thing before installing and dismantling the toilet is to purchase a new plumbing fixture. Depending on the selected model, a set of tools and materials is prepared to perform the replacement.

There are two types of toilets:

• floor;
• hanging.

Floor-standing models are more popular and their choice is huge. They come in “compact” and “monoblock” types, with separate tank and bowl, as well as with a hidden drain system.

A monoblock is a product that combines a water tank and a bowl into a single system. In a compact toilet, these two parts are sold as a set and are connected during installation - this is the most popular option presented on the domestic market of plumbing products.

Retro models, during installation of which the tank must be placed under the ceiling and connected to the bowl with a pipeline, have become increasingly rare in recent years. In them, to flush, you need to pull a string or chain with a handle. Such plumbing fixtures look appropriate in a bathroom decorated in the appropriate style.

A modern solution is to install a hidden drain system. Before replacing an old toilet with a new one of this type, it is necessary to consider the construction of a false wall, behind which the flush tank with the installation system will be hidden. Externally, hidden models look very neat, since only the drain button will be located on the wall, and utility lines will remain hidden.

The bowl of a wall-hung toilet is not placed on the floor. It is hung on anchor bolts mounted into the wall. As a result, there is free space under the bowl and it can be used to advantage. This design is also advantageous from a hygienic point of view. It is not difficult to wash the floor underneath, but dirty residue often collects around the floor product.

Another important point that should be taken into account before replacing the toilet with your own hands is the direction of release from the bowl, which comes in three types:

• at an angle;
• straight;
• vertical.

As for devices with a vertical drain, they are usually used in homes in America and China. Its convenience lies in the fact that the toilet can be placed anywhere in the bathroom, and communications are laid in the interfloor ceiling. This arrangement option can also be implemented in domestic sewer systems, but only in private households.

Kinds

Today there are dozens of types of toilets. They differ in many aspects (for example, the design of the flush or the shape of the bowl). But we will be primarily interested in the design features that will be important during installation. This is the method of release into the sewer and the features of attaching the toilet to the base.

Installation method

Typically, a toilet consists of a tank containing water used for flushing and a bowl connected directly to the drain. There are also models in which these two components represent a single whole.

The bowl can be attached to the floor or hung on the wall. Depending on the mounting point, the tank can be installed in various ways:

• If the bowl is hung on the wall, the tank is built into the wall niche. This placement is called hidden installation.
• If you need to fix the bowl to the floor, then the tank can be installed in several ways. Most often it is attached to the shelf of the bowl (this scheme is called a “compact tank”). Another scheme involves placing the tank separately and mounting it on the wall. Then the water will be supplied to the bowl through a pipe or flexible hose. You can also place the tank in a wall niche, discreetly.

The easiest way to install a bowl is with a floor mount and a compact tank. Such an installation can be carried out without undertaking a major overhaul. But this design also has negative features. It takes up a lot of space and looks quite heavy. It is more difficult to organize hanging the tank from the wall or embedding it (installation) into a niche; such installation can only be done during a major overhaul.

Release to sewer system

Depending on how the sewer pipe enters the bathroom, it is preferable to choose a toilet with a specific exhaust system:

• Vertical discharge is optimal if the entrance to the sewer system is in the floor.
• If the entrance is located near a wall and is at a certain height, a bowl with an oblique outlet is preferable.
• The direct release design is suitable for both cases. To connect the outlet from the bowl to the entrance to the pipes of the sewer system, a transition pipe made of corrugated plastic is used.

The easiest way is to replace the bowl, similar to the one installed earlier. If you plan to remodel the sewer system, you can install any model. But the amount of work will increase. To learn how to choose plastic pipes for sewerage, read this article.

Instructions for replacing a toilet

wall hung toilet in the bathroom

Now the main problem remains to be solved, namely, installing a new toilet. The toilet installation option depends on many factors. The most important thing is the type of fastening and the type of toilet itself. A wall-hung toilet for a small bathroom is often installed by specialists, since its design is quite complex. If we are talking about installing a floor-mounted option, then you can use traditional installation methods. So, you can get to work.

Replacing a toilet can be done by installing it on a tile or concrete floor. This is the traditional method. In this case, self-tapping dowels serve as fasteners. the second option is to attach the toilet to a wooden board or taffeta. The best wood for this installation method is oak.

fixing the toilet to the floor using dowels

In this case, anchors are installed at the bottom of the board. They provide a fairly strong attachment to the floor. Nails that are driven in in a checkerboard pattern can be used as anchors. At the same time, they should protrude from the board by 30 centimeters. A recess is made in the floor, which is filled with cement mortar. Taffeta is placed in it. After the solution has hardened a little, you can screw the toilet using ordinary screws.

Regardless of the method used to secure the toilet, it is worth placing rubber washers under it to protect the base from damage. There are cases when fastening is done not with screws, but with epoxy glue. For proper connection, the surfaces must be thoroughly cleaned and then degreased. Only after this can you connect them to each other. It is worth pressing the toilet tightly to the floor to ensure a reliable and durable connection. The toilet cannot be used immediately. First, you need to soak it for 10-12 hours so that the solution or glue can harden.

You should also pay special attention when connecting the toilet to the drain line. The part of the toilet that connects to the sewer is called the outlet

Moreover, it can be straight or oblique. Any outlet has grooves that must be coated with red lead diluted in drying oil. The release itself must be wrapped with a resin strand. At the same time, you should ensure that it does not reach the pipe by 2-4 millimeters. If this rule is not followed, resin strands may get into the pipes and clog them.

The outlet itself must then be inserted into the socket. In this case, the annular gap is caulked using flagella made from linen yarn. After this, the gap must be sealed with cement mortar.

Pouring a concrete wall for the toilet mounting

To install a concrete slab, it is necessary to have a solid flooring base, since a wall-hung toilet can only be installed on a reliable foundation. Formwork is made for installation with a height of 80–100 cm. The width is selected in accordance with the width of the toilet and cistern. After this, they take reinforcement with a diameter of 10 mm and firmly fix it vertically into the floor in increments of 10 cm from the side of the toilet mounting and opposite to it. The distance from the wall should be sufficient to accommodate the tank. Next, formwork is placed and a concrete solution of grade M300 is poured. After 24 hours, the formwork is removed. The curing period is up to 30 days. Then holes are drilled for the pipes and the pins are screwed in to mount the toilet.

Carrying out work to dismantle the old toilet

To change a toilet with your own hands, first dismantle it. If the device is not too old, there are usually no problems with this process. When the model of plumbing and cast iron sewer pipes are still Soviet-style, in this case you will have to work hard.

If the device is not in very bad condition, the dismantling process will not be too laborious:

1. First, before draining the toilet when replacing it, turn off the water pipe.
2. Prepare containers for collecting water and rags.
3. Disconnect the tank by unscrewing the bolts from below.
4. Remove the plastic eccentric or corrugation connecting the bowl outlet and the sewer system.
5. Using a regular sponge, remove any remaining water in the container.
6. Using a wrench, unscrew the fasteners located on the sides of the base; there are usually 2 or 4 of them.
7. Use a knife to remove the silicone sealant from under the base.
8. The bowl is removed from the tile.

In the past century, all installation work was done in such a way that the plumbing would last for decades. Until now, when replacing a toilet in a Khrushchev-era building, you can find the device mounted on cement mortar and embedded in a screed with rags wrapped around the base and finally covered with several layers of paint. In this case, its connection with the sewer pipe is covered with a thick layer of solution.

Now this installation method looks ridiculous, but until the home craftsman has to dismantle the rare device. In cases where ceramics are not a concern, the toilet bowl can be dismantled in parts. To do this you will need a hammer and chisel.

You must first knock at the junction of the bowl and pipe, while simultaneously rocking the mount. If the structure does not give in, you should hit the neck of the plumbing fixture and it will crack. After this you can remove it. The main thing is not to hit the cast iron pipe with a hammer, since it is fragile and will crack easily.

Connecting the toilet to the water pipeline

First, you need to install the drain tank fittings according to the instructions. Since most of the threaded connections on this assembly are plastic, they must be tightened by hand. Otherwise, the threads may be damaged, which will lead to the purchase of new components and, accordingly, to increased costs for such work.

Having installed the fittings, you can begin to connect it to the water pipeline. A prerequisite for this will be the presence of a valve or ball valve designed to reliably shut off the water supply to the toilet tank. Having installed such a tap (or replaced the old one if it was already installed but failed), the next step will be to connect a flexible hose of the appropriate length. It shouldn't be too tight. It is necessary to put rubber gaskets at the joints, and you can wrap a little FUM tape on the threads.

Having completed all types of work efficiently, you can independently install a new toilet that can reliably perform its functions for decades.

Installation

Work on fixing and installing the toilet proceeds as follows:

That's all the subtleties of replacing a toilet. In conclusion, I would like to note the following: if you find out another way to change a toilet with your own hands, this does not mean that it is wrong. There are simply always several methods for solving a particular issue.

Replacing a toilet is required when the old product becomes unusable. More often, dismantling an old toilet and installing a new one is in demand in older buildings, where all communications need to be updated. Replacing the toilet tank and other parts yourself is not difficult. However, it requires basic skills in working with tools (a hammer drill, a drill, etc.) and the ability to fill and lay tiles. Read how to install a toilet in a private house with your own hands and watch the video tutorial below.

Features of installing a new product

After you have managed to remove the toilet with your own hands, you can begin installing the new product. Depending on the model purchased, the installation process will differ. Installation of a plumbing bowl with a floor mounting option and an attachment with a hidden tank is carried out in different ways. Detailed instructions will help the home handyman to cope with the installation of the toilet.

Installation process of a compact toilet: how to replace it yourself

In order to replace an old device with a floor-standing product of the “compact” type when installed on a tiled floor, you need to use a step-by-step description of how to replace a toilet yourself:

1. First of all, determine the location of the new device. The bowl is placed in the bathroom without fastening. You need to try to sit on it. It is advisable to try on several options.
2. Once the exact location is known, the base of the bowl is outlined with a washable marker. It is also used to mark the places where plumbing fixtures will be attached.
3. The product is put aside, and after that all the necessary marks remain on the floor. Then, using a drill with a 12-bit drill bit, holes are drilled in the tiles. If the surface is concrete, then it is better to beat it with a drill number 12. Dowels are inserted into the prepared holes.
4. Then they take a corrugation or cuff to connect the outlet of the device to the sewer system. The connecting element is placed in place, having previously treated the joint with sealant.
5. The new bowl with corrugation is installed correctly. Bolts are threaded through the mounting lugs and screwed in using an adjustable wrench. The main thing is not to overdo it when performing this work and not to damage the ceramics.
6. The device is connected to the sewer pipe, treating all joints with silicone.
7. A tank is installed on the bowl.
8. The elements are connected with bolts and the container is connected to the water pipe.

Finally, all joints and threaded connections are checked for leaks. If no deficiencies or deficiencies are found, you can use new plumbing equipment.

The process of how to change a toilet of this model yourself is simple, since modern products are designed in such a way that when they are replaced, the floor covering remains intact.

How to assemble and install a toilet

Now that the room is completely ready, let's take a closer look at how to install a new toilet. We will consider installing floor and hanging options.

Floor option

Let's start with the classics. All work can be divided into two stages: assembling the tank and the entire toilet, and securing it to the floor.

Table 3. Tank assembly

Table 4. Toilet installation

If the tiles on your floor are laid strictly according to level, then the work ends there, the toilet will stand securely. But often the opposite happens. In this case, it is recommended to apply white or transparent silicone under the toilet. It levels out differences and additionally connects everything. It is also reasonable to use it when, when drilling a hole, you get into voids and the dowel-screw cannot fix the device.

Video - Assembling and installing a toilet

Installation of a wall hung toilet

Now let's see how the installation is assembled and installed. In principle, there is nothing complicated either.

Table 5. Installation of a wall-mounted toilet

Prices for wall hung toilets

Wall mounted toilet

Then the inner part of the drain button is mounted on the tank. It is attached to it with two bolts.

The wall is covered with plasterboard and tiled. In this case, all leads and pins remain outside. There is an inspection hatch on top of the installation, although many people prefer not to install it, as it worsens the appearance. But do not forget that access to taps is always required. Or then they should be taken to another place.

Finally, the toilet itself is hung and the button is assembled.

You always want to keep your plumbing fixtures in their original form, so if you use the toilet frequently, you should pay special attention to cleaning it. In a special article, we will look at the most effective methods for cleaning structures from limescale and urinary stones, and we will talk about popular and effective cleaning agents.

When is replacement needed?

If various kinds of problems appear with the toilet, this does not mean that it is necessary to change it. There are cases when it is enough to simply repair an element or simply replace it. This can happen for various reasons. So, for example, if there is a leak at the junction of the hose and the toilet, you just need to turn off the water, disconnect the hose and coat it with silicone sealant. This will fix the leak. Or, if the tank does not hold water and it constantly flows, then you need to open the lid and replace the drain system. These simple measures can extend the life of the toilet for a long time without the extra costs of replacing it.

Sometimes it happens that more serious problems arise that cannot be repaired.

In this case, you will have to buy and install a new toilet. The materials from which toilets are made are most often very fragile and cannot withstand shock or temperature changes. If cracks or chips appear on the toilet, this can lead to its destruction. It needs to be replaced as soon as possible.

It happens that an unpleasant odor appears from the toilet. This can be either a smell from the sewer itself, or if dirt has started to get into the cracks. Sanitaryware has a porous structure; microbes enter through chips. The only solution to this problem is replacement. Bathroom renovations can also be a reason to buy new plumbing fixtures. If you plan to carry out major renovations in the apartment, then it is best to buy and install new equipment, and not just replace the floor and walls. You can do this yourself if you carefully study and follow all the instructions.

Before installing a new toilet, you must dismantle the old one

, which most often already has an ugly appearance, is cracked in some places or covered with a thick coating. If the house is old, and the renovation was carried out many years ago, then it is unlikely to be possible to remove the old toilet without breaking it, since its base is firmly concreted into the floor. This method of cementing the floor and attaching the toilet to this place was very popular in Soviet times, when it was customary to do everything with high quality and for a long time.

How to install it yourself?

After the old toilet is removed, it is necessary to carry out a general cleaning of the room so that no debris or dust remains. Or, if repairs are planned, then carry out all the work to replace the flooring and wall cladding. Once everything is done, you can begin installing new plumbing equipment. It is highly recommended to install plumbing fixtures after the renovation is completed, as they are most often made of fragile materials that can be damaged.

In order to replace a floor-standing toilet, you need:

• decide on its location, place the bowl in the most optimal place, try everything on;
• After making sure that this location is convenient, you need to outline the base of the bowl with a construction pencil and highlight the holes for fastening;
• remove the toilet, then drill holes and insert dowels into them;
• install the corrugated pipe into the sewer hole, it is necessary to treat the connection with sealant;
• place the new bathroom strictly in the marked place, screw in the bolts to secure it to the floor;
• make a connection to the sewer;
• install a toilet cistern;
• connect the structure to the water supply.

Be sure to check the structure for leaks. Provided that they are not present, the installation was successful, you can safely use the toilet. If the decision was made to install a wall-mounted toilet, then in this case there will be more work. It is necessary to repair the floor covering, install a false wall, and repair it.

Replacement must be performed in the following sequence:

• mark the installation location, install sewerage and water supply;
• try on the frame for mounting the structure;
• mark mounting locations on the wall and floor;
• use a hammer drill to make holes, install the frame (or installation);
• install a drain tank and connect the water supply;
• install sheets of drywall so as to create an imitation of walls;
• finish the resulting false wall;
• install the bowl, connect it to the sewer using a corrugated pipe, thoroughly coat everything with sealant;
• connect the drain tank.