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The toilet flange secures the toilet to the floor and also, connects it to the drain pipe. It is usually made up of rubber, metal, or PVC material. This unit is secured with bolts properly. Sometimes, you may see erosion in the floor near the toilet, it can be because of the loose flange. It can lead to leaks on the floor.  Other than this, this can damage the floor to a great extent. In case the toilet flange is loosened in your home, you can fix it or replace it without any technical help. Follow this guide to know how to replace a toilet flange. Check out this step-by-step guide to replacing toilet flange in your home.

Tools and Materials Required

To carry out the toilet flange replacement process, you will need some tools and materials. Below we have listed all of them.

• Power drill
• Plunger
• Phillips head screwdrivers
• Oscillating tools
• Adjustable wrenches
• Paint scrapers.
• Flanges
• Gaskets, seals, wax, and rings
• Wood screws
• Flange nuts
• Masonry and concrete anchors
• Lag bolts

Steps to Replace Toilet Flange

Step 1: Drain the Toilet

The very step is to flush the toilet and empty it. for this, you need to follow the steps mentioned below.

• To start with, you will have to disable the water supply to your toilet. You can find the supplied knob on the floor or wall at the back of the toilet.
• When done, you will have to flush the toilet multiple times so that there is no water remaining there.
• Next, you will have to remove the remaining liquid from the basin with the help of a plunger. Other than this, you can utilize towels or sponges to wipe off the liquid.
• When done, you need to make sure to keep towels near you so that you can remove any standing water.

Also, read- Best flushing toilet

Step 2: Removing the Tank

Now, the next step is to remove the toilet tank. Make sure to carry out this step carefully to avoid any damage. Follow the steps mentioned below.

• The first thing that you have to do is lay towels on the floor so that there is no damage caused to the floors.
• After this, you will have to look for the mounting bolts and then loosen the nuts. You can find two or three nuts. One will be present on each side and the other may be present in the middle. Also, make sure to keep them safe and properly because you need to use them later.
• When done, raise the tank properly and carefully. Place the tank in a location where it will out of your way.

Step 3: Removing the Bowl

Now that you have removed the tank, the next thing is to remove the toilet bowl. Make sure that you have a partner for this step because the bowl can be heavy for you. Follow the steps mentioned below.

• To start with, you will have to use a screwdriver and then remove the caps. You will then have to use a wrench and remove the nuts. Keep them in a safe place for later use.
• Next, you will see that the toilet bowl is sealed with a wax ring to the flange. You will have to gently try to rock the bowl and break the seal.
• When done, raise the bowl safely and then use the towels to keep the bowl.

Step 4: Detach the Old Flange

So, to replace the toilet flange, you need to replace the old one. This step needs to be performed very carefully. Check out the steps mentioned below.

• First, you will have to pull out the pipe from the drain using a towel. It will help you to prevent odors and also, won’t let you lose the bolts down the drain.
• After this, you will have to cleanse the ring and then cleanse the base of the toilet flange using the paint scraper.
• When done, you need to remove the bolts and the screws. In case they are in a condition to use again, you can keep them aside.
• You may be able to remove it by gently lifting it. This can be done with the gasket-sealed PVC flange.
• Next, if the flange is stuck with the glue and you are not able to remove it, you may have to call a plumber and get it done for you. You must not do it on your own because it can damage the pipe. You will have to pay a lot more money to get the drain pipe fixed than you would pay the plumber to replace the flange.
• Other than this, if you notice that the subfloor is damaged, you will have to cut it using an oscillating multi-tool. You will then have to replace it using the suitable one.

Step 5: Choose the Correct Toilet Flange Replacement

After removing the older flange, you need to look for the perfect replacement. For this, check out the steps mentioned below.

• You will first have to measure the area or diameter of the drainpipe exposed. You can then use these measurements to find a new flange for you.
• Next, you need to check if the Old flange is in the condition to use again, you can carry it with you to the nearby shop and ask for the correct replacement.

Step 6: Installing the New One

Now that you have found the perfect toilet flange replacement, you need to install it. Below we have mentioned all the steps that you need to follow.

• To start with, you need to place the flange securely on the subfloor. You can use cement screws or wood screws for this. It depends on the material of your subfloor.
• Next, you need to slide the bolts into the new flange and use nuts to secure them in place.
• In case you are using the gasket-sealed PVC, you will not need to use the adhesive.
• When this is done, you will have to install the wax ring. You need to find the wax ring according to the width of the floor. In case you have replaced the thicker tile with the original, the wax ring should also be thicker. Other than this, you may get the appropriate size wax ring with the flange. To install the wax ring, you can use two options:
• Method 1: You can simply center the ring on the flange and then lower the bowl in its position.
• Method 2: For this, you will have to place the bowl on the floor and then attach the replacement ring to the location. With this, you can get better positioning and accuracy in placing the toilet.

Step 7: Change the Toilet

This is the last step in replacing the toilet flange. To do this, follow the steps mentioned below.

• To start with, you will have to put the toilet on top of the flange that you have changed. You may have to hold the bowl in your hand so that you can get a better grip.
• Next, you will have to lower the bowl and then apply some pressure for setting the seal. You will have to make sure that you do not move the toilet after you have set it up. This can lead to the breaking of the seal and lead to leaks in the future.
• Now, you will also have to change the nuts and washers and also, tighten them up. But, you need to make sure not to tighten them too hard because it can lead to breaking.
• You need to change the bolt caps.
• Next, you will have to change the tank of the toilet and then align the bolt’s shank.
• Now, tighten the bolts properly to secure the tank.
• When it is done, you will have to attach the water supply line again. Check if there is any leak and let the tank fill.
• In the end, you will have to flush it and check the base for any leaks.

You can also read- Best tankless toilets

To Conclude

With all the steps mentioned above, you will be able to replace the toilet flange easily. We have mentioned each step of the process in detail for your convenience. In case you still face the issue, we will suggest you call a plumber. We hope that this guide has helped you.

FAQs

How much does it cost to replace a toilet flange?

The cost to change the flange could vary. If you are changing it on your own then it can save labor costs. So it depends on every factor.

When to replace the toilet flange?

It should be replaced every time you change your toilet seat.

Can you put a new toilet flange over an old one?

No. You can not. You should not even try this because this can make the matter worse.

Is the toilet flange glued to the pipe?

Yes. It is glued to the pipe and also it is screwed to the pipe.

In this pandemic period, where you constantly hear about a new virus, it becomes mandatory to keep the cleanliness of our surroundings. You may keep your house clean but it is not efficient enough unless there is not a clean or safe bathroom. Toilet seats and their cleanliness matter the most for individuals like you who want to tackle the aftereffects of viruses. Many of you might prefer to mop your bathroom tiles, and floors with some detergents and soaps. But, that proves to be inefficient if you do not provide proper care to a clogged toilet. Well, we can think about how you are feeling when seeing a clogged toilet that can be cleaned only by the plunger. But, what if you don’t have a plunger and your toilet gets clogged? Well, the answer to how to unclog a toilet is provided in this article. You just make sure to go through all the relevant tools and things that we are going to discuss in this article.

From the tools and other options mentioned below, you can easily unclog your toilet without even using a plunger. Taking care of your toilet is as essential as anything to remove the unnecessary germs and viruses that later on bring new illnesses. You cannot leave your toiled to be clogged so here are the solutions for that. Don’t panic when there is no plunger in sight just use these 10 things and you are good to go. A clogged toilet will not be a problem anymore as you will get some easiest ways to unclog it. So, let’s proceed ahead with the guide and learn all the different things you can use for cleaning purposes. 

What Other Things You Require to Unclog Toilet

The user needs to ensure some of the essential things like a wire hanger, baking soda, vinegar, and dish soap before achieving the goals. With these household items, you can easily carry out functions to unclog your toilet. If you are wondering how you can complete the tasks with such basic things then move ahead and know how to unclog a toilet. We all know that plunger is the easiest method that is highly used for that purpose but there are plenty of methods as well that will clear the clogging in a minimal time.

Methods to Unclog a Toilet Without a Plunger

You may now be curious to know about the secret items that will help you in unclogging the toilet. So, let’s move below and learn. 

Leave it Overnight

At times, all you require to do is to have some patience till the toilet starts to unclog itself. Your patience might resolve this issue easily. You can leave your toilet overnight. Clog gets pressure from the water in your toilet when it tries to leave. So, when you leave it over time, it becomes unclogged. If you find the clog there then make sure to prevent the water flow. It will help in flushing the toilet. 

Epsom Salt

Epsom salt is the instant solution to clogged toilets. You must have it in your essential kit. Whenever you are at your friend’s toilet and face an agitated situation like this then make sure to use this secret ingredient. Epsom salt develops a quick reaction with the clogged and breaks them down into tiny particles. With this salt, you may save yourself from getting embarrassed in front of your family and friends. It is the most used trick that will be used by many to unclog the toilet. 

Bath Bombs

Bath bombs are another option that you use can use in this hard situation. They come in the shape of balls so you can easily carry them in your bags. You need to put bath bombs inside the clogged stuff and let it reacts further. It may coat the sides of the pipe to ease the path. Make sure to wait till bath bombs get completely dissolved. It would be recommended to always carry these small essential items with you whenever you go outside. As you also don’t want to feel embarrassed in front of anyone. You can reciprocate the situation with your smartness and these are just small ways that will define your personality. 

Read Also: Best Smart Toilets

Baking Soda and Vinegar

Baking soda and vinegar are no better than a cool volcano when mixed. Their mixture can develop a quick cleanser for any kind of surface and floor. You can always count on them when there are no cleaning items left. Just make sure to carry the right amount of value. Like, you can carry around one cup of baking soda and pour it into the toilet. Do not split all of the baking soda into one specific place. Make sure to spread it around in a way that covers almost all areas. Now, just let it disappears and then add around two cups of vinegar. Do the same things with vinegar also, spread it all over until it gets dispersed. It would be better if you do it in a circular motion. Vinegar and baking soda altogether evolve a fizzy reaction that will help in breaking up the clog. Make sure that this mixture is sat for around an hour without any interruption. Now, when the time gets over, just flush the toilet. It will surely resolve the issue. However, if you will find no result then make sure to conduct the same process and leave it overnight. 

Wire Hanger

A wire hanger is another item that you can use for unclogging the toilet. To use the hanger, you need to first unfold it in a way that it becomes straight. You don’t have to use the rough edge of it. Make sure to tie a rag to do a proper cleaning. With this rag, you have to continue the process of unclogging the toilet. Many times, using harsh edges prove to be more hectic and dangerous as it leads to more damage than you think. So, make sure to always put a rag whenever you use a rough material. The rag will help you from causing holes in the drainage pipe. 

Plain Hot Water

Before starting with this, we want you to get a proper difference between plain hot water and boiling water. Plain hot water should not be at the boiling stage. If you mistakenly use boiling water then it would leave some cracks on your toilet seats. There are many types of toilet seats that are available in the market, you should know what kind of toilet seat you need. This, makes you dive into the worst situation. So, always be cautious about what temperature you are using as everything in excess is bad and using boiling water for unclogging the toilet is worse. Now, you should pour the water from the waist level. The water pressure will dislodge all the causes that bring clogging to your bathroom. 

Drain Cleaners

Well, drain cleaners are not our choice, but if you don’t have anything that we have described above then make sure to use this chemical. The reason why we do not want to include them is they are not environmentally friendly. Also, they could cause damage or burns to your toilet. If you don’t want to use them then try to blend powdered dish soap with bleach and use this mixture. You can take around a cup of powdered dish soap and two cups of bleach to witness the unclogged toilet. Make sure to not flush the toilet for about half an hour. It needs some time to get a reaction.

Toilet Brush

If you don’t have any of these items then get ready to sacrifice your toilet brush. You can use it by moving back and forth. Make sure to do this gently. If you apply vigorous force then you might end up with a new problem. So, take this advice and do this process gently. Also, put on some essential items like goggles and rubber gloves before carrying out this task. You can throw this brush in the dustbin when the activities become finished. Ensure to purchase the new brush as you are not left with any choice. 

Plastic Bottle

This is the tricky one that you can try to unclog the toilet. Here is a quick description of what you can do to create water pressure from a bottle. First of all, make sure that you remove unnecessary water from the toilet bowl. You can use a small container to bring out the water. Once done with that, use another plastic container like a bottle and fill it with warm water. Make sure that you have put your thumb or any finger at the head of the bottle. You need to do it to hold the air pressure. Now, just place the bottle upside down at the bottom of your toilet and remove your thumb or fingers. Press the bottle that will leave the water with pressure and then clear all the clogged material.  

Prevent Clogs of Future

Toilets can only excrete toilet paper and human waste. So, don’t throw any of the pieces or objects that would harm them in the future. Here are the pointers that you consider for the prevention of clogs. 

• Make sure that you will not flush excessive amounts of toilet paper. 
• Try to flush multiple times if there are too many toilet papers. 
• Ensure to flush products relevant only for toiler purposes. 
• Your children should be learned to flush significant products other than toys and plastic items. 

Wind Up!

These items will help you in unclogging the toilet. We hope that you like this article and find it informative about how to unclog a toilet. In the future, if you find a clogged toilet then use these 10 tricks and get rid of the situation. If, by any chance, the situation becomes worsens then don’t forget to call a plumber. They will reduce the future’s possibilities also. Make sure to prevent these clogs by taking these three points into consideration. You will not fall into this kind of trouble again when you apply and teach these three things to yourself and your children. 

FAQs

How to unclog a toilet with poop in it?

Use a plunger for it. Hold the plunger with both of your hands. pump it up and down. Part of the poop definitely got stuck in your plunger and then carefully threw it in the garbage.

How to unclog a toilet with salt?

You can use salt to unclog the clogged toilet. You must use soda with salt for better results.

What can you pour down a toilet to unclog it?

You can use baking soda and vinegar together to unclog the toilet seat. As it starts reacting and results in bubble formation through which you can remove tough stains.

Removing a toilet can seem a bit difficult job to most people. But, it is not. Most people can manage to remove the toilet on their own without any professional help. All you have to do is to make sure to follow this tutorial properly and you will be good to go. Check out this guide to know how to remove a toilet.

Always keep in mind that if there is a ceramic toilet, it can be heavy. So, avoid lifting it on your back, it can lead to injuries. Make sure to lift it on the legs. Moreover, if available, you can take help from somebody else.

Requirements

Before you proceed with the process, check out what you need.

Tools:

• sponges
• Screwdrivers
• Lids and paint buckets
• Wire brushes
• Air ratchet wrenches
• Wrenches

Material:

• Cleaning rags
• Two-piece toilet

Steps to Remove a Toilet

Here are some steps which guide you on how to remove a toilet-

Step 1: Disconnecting Toilet Connector

The very first thing that you will have to do is to drain the water completely from the toilet. No matter if you are removing the toilet, or replacing it, you need to first drain the water. For this, follow the steps mentioned below.

• To start with, you will have to disable the power supply at your shut-off valve. Usually, it is present on the wall at the back of the toilet, but, it can also be present on the floor.
• Next, you will have to flush the toilet multiple times to drain the water completely. The flushing toilet should be beautifully designed to look fine for your guests.
• Now, you may have to use the sponge to dry it completely and remove the remaining water.
• After this, simply disconnect the connection tube. You will also have to make sure to keep a towel or a bucket near you so that you can collect the water standing in the drain.
• When you are done with this, you will have to simply disconnect the connector at the tank also.

Step 2: Removing the Tank

Now, if you use a two-piece toilet, you must remove the toilet tank separately. Otherwise, for the one-piece toilet, you can skip this step and move to remove the toilet bowl. For this, follow the steps mentioned below.

• First, you need to know that tank is attached using mounting bolts. You can find the mounting bolts placed on the sides and the middle sometimes.
• You will then have to use a basin wrench or the ratchet wrench to loosen the nuts and remove them.
• Next, you will have to lift the toilet tank and remove it. Make sure to place it in a location where it will be safe and out of your way.

Step 3: Remove the Toilet From the Floor

Now, the next step to removing the toilet is to unbolt it from the floor. For this, follow the steps mentioned below.

• To start with, if you feel necessary, you will have to pry off the caps with the help of a screwdriver.
• Now, you will have to use an adjustable wrench and remove the nuts. There are chances that you will be able to remove the screw using your hands.
• Next, if you see that the screws are jammed completely, you can use penetrating oil and spray it to loosen the nuts.
• In case the penetrating oil does not help, you will have to make sure that you use a hacksaw and cut bolts. You can also split them with the help of a nut splitter.

Step 4: Breaking the Toilet Seal

Now, the next step to removing the toilet is to break the seal. The toilet wax ring will seal the toilet flange and the toilet bowl’s bottom to the floor. So, if you wish to remove a toilet, you will have to break the seal. For this, follow the steps mentioned below.

• Bestride the toilet and then try breaking the seal gently.
• You will then have to raise the toilet bowl and safely place it on the towel so it won’t come in the wait. You may not be able to carry out this alone, so, you will need a partner.

Step 5: Pull Out the Wax Ring

You will now have to pull the old wax ring. Follow the below-mentioned steps to do this.

• First, you need to get a scrapper. You will have to use a scraper and try to pull out the wax from the flange and also, the bottom.
• Next, throw the wax that you have pulled out and make sure to throw it properly so that it does not stick anywhere else.
• The next thing that you need to do is to cleanse the flange.
• Also, if you want to check the toilet flange, you can do it at this moment. If it needs to be replaced, you can replace the toilet flange now.

Step 6: Enclose the Hole

This is the last step in how to remove a toilet process. Now that you have removed the toilet, you need to enclose the hole and then dispose of the new one. For this, follow the steps mentioned below.

• You will have to stuff a cloth or a rag in the hole. This is a must so that the sewer gas does not seep into your house.
• Next, you can use a bucket to enclose the rag and the flange.

To dispose of the old toilet, you will get two different options:

• The first thing that you can do is to call the local trash services in your area and then ask them to pick up the old toilet. You can also visit their website to connect with them. In this case, you will have to dispose of the non-ceramic part individually.
• Next, you can also visit the landfill and dispose of the toilet.
• Other than this, you can also call the local recycling centers and check if they can take the non-ceramic parts. For this, you can also seek help from the water authority of your area so that they could suggest something.
• Moreover, you can also contact the charity in your area which will accept and reuse the building materials donated to. But, make sure to donate only if it is in working condition. If they accept they may be able to arrange the transportation also.

Read Also: Most Powerful Flushing Toilet

Winding Up

So, we hope that by the end of the post, you have learned to remove the toilet. Now, you can also install a toilet if you want or can make the required changes in the bathroom if you wish. In case you are still not able to learn the process, we will advise you to contact a professional. Stay tuned to us for more such posts.

FAQs

How to remove a toilet seat?

You can easily remove a toilet seat. What you all need to do is first unscrew the bolts. If it is badly rusted and tight then you must use lubricant and then try to unscrew it.

How to remove rust from a toilet bowl?

Try a homemade cleaning solution to remove rust from the toilet seat. Do not use bleach as it can make it worse.

How much does it cost to remove a toilet?

Removing toilet seat cost depends on what type of toilet you are using. Also, what plumber you are calling for it?