Yes, you can replace your own toilet. The following steps will make the task simpler if you choose to replace a toilet yourself. Below we have also added price ranges if you choose to have it professionally installed by a plumber.
First, start by shutting off the water valve and flushing the toilet; this will drain the toilet water and prevent it from refilling. Next use an adjustable wrench to disconnect the toilet from the water supply line. At the bottom of the toilet bowl near the floor, a person can locate the bolt caps. By removing the bolt caps and unbolting the toilet bowl the entire toilet unit can be removed. Some people may find the entire toilet unit too heavy to lift, if that is the case, the toilet tank can be detached by unbolting the tank from the toilet bowl. After the unit is gone, check if the toilet based was caulked; if so a utility knife can cut through the seal. Continue by lifting the old wax ring. Now that all the main components are gone, place an old rag into the toilet drain line to stop any sewage gases from ventilating into the restroom. To prevent any future issues a clean up is needed before installing the new toilet. Using a sponge and dishwashing soap scrub down on all the bolts and flange (hardware piece connecting the toilet to the floor); inspect all of the pieces attentively. Damage on any part means it has to be replaced. Once everything is clean and ready the sewage rag can be removed, and the new wax ring can be placed. Carefully align the toilet with the wax ring and bolts, any misplacement can result in a future leak. When the toilet is properly placed, bolt it down to the floor. At this point the owner of the toilet can decide whether he/she wishes to have the toilet caulked or not. Lastly, connect the toilet back to the water supply line and turn on the water valve. Give the toilet a few minutes for the tank to refill. When the tank is full give the toilet a flush to examine whether it is working properly and there is no leaking near the base. Not everyone has the proper equipment and labor strength to replace a toilet; reaching out to a plumber will warrant the completion of the job.
How much does a plumber charge to replace a toilet?
Plumbers charge around $275-$480 dollars to replace a toilet. HomeAdvisor rates the national average of a toilet replacement at $375 dollars. It is important to note that these numbers also include the disposal of the old toilet. The top attributes that influence toilet replacement pricing are location, the type of toilet, and the difficulty of the installation. In addition, some plumbers may charge more if the toilet is in a part of the home that commonly does not have a toilet in it. Technology is advancing and it is affecting toilets. High-end toilets with A.I. systems and eco-friendly toilets can cost between $850-$1,550 to be installed due to added installation requirements. Toilet installations can be expensive but worth every penny.