The fix is to simply remove and “reset” the toilet with a new wax ring.
The same technique is used if you are removing an old toilet to set a new one.
Warning
A toilet can be heavy and bulky to lift.
The Spruce / Candace Madonna
If you have a bad back, then this isn’t the project for you.
Even if you separate the tank from the bowl, it will still be very heavy.
Look for a fixture shut-off valve located on the water supply stub-out pipe near the bottom of the toilet.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
Turn the handle of the valve fully clockwise to shut off the water.
Disconnect the Supply Line
Disconnect the flexible supply tube connected to the tailpiece of the toilet’sfill valve.
In addition, this will empty most of the water from the tank.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
Remove Any Remaining Water
Remove the tank lid and set it aside in a safe place.
Also use the sponge to soak up and remove any remaining water in the toilet bowl.
Both the tank and bowl need to be as dry as possible for the next steps.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
Disconnect the Floor Bolts
Pop the nut caps off the floor bolts, using a putty knife.
Putting them into the open tank will ensure that they don’t get separated from the toilet.
Use anadjustable wrenchor channel-lock pliers to remove the nuts and washers holding the toilet down to the floor bolts.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
You may find that the floor bolts are rusted and corroded in place.
If so, you may need to cut them off with ahacksaw.
After removing the toilet, you’re able to replace the old corroded bolts with new ones.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
If you choose to do this, it may involve detaching the tank from the toilet bowl.
This step is also easier with a helper.
Pay particular attention to the “horn” of the toiletthe round opening that fits into the floor drain.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
This area needs to be clean and smooth to seal properly against the drain.
If you are replacing the floor bolts, now is the time to set them into the floor flange.
Use a washer and nut to tighten them down onto the floor.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
A helper again comes in handy as you position and lower the toilet.
This action will compress the wax ring slightly.
Avoid over-tightening, which can crack the base of the bowl.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
If it moves, continue tightening the nuts, still alternating sides.
Place the caps back over the floor bolts.
Watch for leaks around the base of the toilet bowl and on the flex tube connections.
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
The Spruce / Kevin Norris
