How to Install a One Piece Toilet Easily?
A one piece toilet is a popular choice for bathrooms because it’s easy to clean (no gaps between the tank and bowl) and looks sleek. Installing it might seem tricky, but with the right tools and steps, you can do it easily. Let’s break down the process step by step, so you can install your one piece toilet without stress.
1. Gather Tools and Materials
Before you start, make sure you have all the tools and materials you need. This will save time and avoid mistakes:
- The one piece toilet (check that all parts are included: bowl, tank, seat)
- Wax ring (or a rubber gasket) to seal the toilet to the floor
- Closet bolts (2–4, to secure the toilet to the floor)
- Adjustable wrench or pliers
- Screwdriver (flathead or Phillips, depending on the bolts)
- Level (to make sure the toilet is straight)
- Rags or paper towels (to clean up water)
- Bucket (to catch water from the pipes)
- Masking tape (to hold bolts in place)
Optional: A toilet flange repair kit (if the floor flange is damaged) and silicone caulk (to seal around the base, for extra water resistance).
2. Remove the Old Toilet (If Needed)
If you’re replacing an old toilet, start by removing it:
- Turn off the water supply: Find the shutoff valve (usually near the wall behind the toilet) and turn it clockwise until it’s tight. Flush the toilet to empty the tank and bowl.
- Disconnect the water line: Use pliers to loosen the nut connecting the water line to the toilet. Have a bucket ready to catch any leftover water.
- Remove the bolts: Unscrew the bolts at the base of the old toilet (they might be covered by plastic caps). If they’re rusted, use a wrench to loosen them.
- Lift the old toilet: Get help if it’s heavy. Tilt it gently to the side to avoid spilling any remaining water, then set it aside. Clean the area around the floor flange (the pipe sticking up from the floor) with a rag.
3. Prepare the Floor Flange
The floor flange is the circular pipe fitting that connects the toilet to the drain. It needs to be in good shape for the new one piece toilet to work:
- Check the flange: Make sure it’s level and secure to the floor. If it’s loose, tighten the screws holding it down. If it’s cracked or damaged, replace it with a repair kit (follow the kit’s instructions).
- Clean the flange: Remove any old wax, dirt, or debris. This ensures a tight seal with the new wax ring.
- Install closet bolts: Put 2–4 closet bolts into the flange (they should fit into the slots on the flange). Use masking tape to hold them upright—this makes it easier to align the toilet later.
4. Install the Wax Ring
The wax ring creates a water-tight seal between the one piece toilet and the floor flange:
- Place the wax ring: Remove the wax ring from its package (it’s sticky on one side). Press it firmly onto the bottom of the one piece toilet’s drain opening (the “horn” that sticks down from the bowl). Make sure it’s centered—this prevents leaks.
- Optional: Add a thin bead of silicone caulk around the base of the toilet (where it touches the floor) for extra protection. But don’t caulk if the floor is uneven—caulk can trap water under the toilet, causing damage.
5. Position the One Piece Toilet
Now it’s time to set the one piece toilet in place:
- Lift the toilet: Get help to lift the one piece toilet (it’s heavy—around 50–80 pounds). Line up the drain horn (with the wax ring) over the floor flange.
- Lower it gently: Set the toilet down slowly, making sure the closet bolts go through the holes in the base of the toilet. Press down firmly to compress the wax ring (this creates a tight seal).
- Check for level: Place a level on top of the toilet tank. If it’s uneven, add small shims (thin pieces of plastic or wood) under the base until it’s straight. Don’t over-shim—this can crack the toilet.
6. Secure the Toilet to the Floor
Once the one piece toilet is level, secure it to the floor:
- Tighten the bolts: Put a washer on each closet bolt, then screw on the nuts. Tighten them evenly (a little on one side, then a little on the other) to avoid cracking the toilet. Stop when they’re snug—don’t over-tighten.
- Cut off excess bolt length: If the bolts are too long above the nuts, use a hacksaw to cut them down. Cover the bolts with plastic caps (usually included with the toilet) for a clean look.
7. Connect the Water Supply
Finish by hooking up the water:
- Attach the water line: Connect the flexible water supply line to the fill valve on the one piece toilet (it’s usually on the side of the tank). Tighten the nut with pliers—don’t over-tighten, as it can damage the valve.
- Turn on the water: Open the shutoff valve (turn counterclockwise) to let water flow into the tank. Check for leaks around the water line connection and the base of the toilet. If you see a leak, turn off the water and tighten the connection.
- Test the toilet: Flush it a few times to fill the tank and bowl. Make sure the water drains properly and there are no leaks from the base or water line.
8. Final Touches
- Let the wax ring set: Avoid using the toilet for 6–12 hours. This gives the wax ring time to fully seal.
- Clean up: Wipe away any water or dirt around the base. If you used shims, trim them so they’re flush with the floor, then caulk around the base (optional, but helps with cleaning).
FAQ
How heavy is a one piece toilet?
Most one piece toilets weigh 50–80 pounds. It’s best to have two people lift it to avoid injury or dropping it.
Do I need a wax ring, or can I use a rubber gasket?
Both work. Wax rings are traditional and create a tight seal, but rubber gaskets are easier to install and reusable. Choose whichever is included with your toilet or recommended by the manufacturer.
How do I know if the toilet is level?
Place a level on top of the tank. If the bubble is in the middle, it’s level. If not, use shims under the base until it’s straight.
Can I install a one piece toilet by myself?
It’s possible, but lifting it alone is hard. Ask a friend to help—one person can hold the toilet, and the other can guide it onto the flange.
What if there’s a leak after installation?
Check the water line connection first—tighten it with pliers. If the leak is from the base, the wax ring might not be compressed enough. Turn off the water, drain the toilet, then lift it slightly and press down again to compress the wax ring.
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