Do you want to lower those pesky bills? Installing a dual flush toilet might be your next DIY adventure to saving water!
It is surprisingly doable (think 1-2 hours, tops!) and a fantastic way to make your bathroom more eco-friendly. We’ll walk you through each step, so even if you’re new to plumbing, you’ll be flushing with pride in no time.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Adjustable Wrench: A trustworthy tool for tightening those water supply connections like a pro.
- Screwdriver: Essential for unscrewing the old toilet seat and any other screws.
- Putty Knife: This handy tool will help you scrape away the old wax ring.
- Measuring Tape: Ensuring your new throne is perfectly aligned.
- Level: Nobody wants a wobbly loo! Keep things steady with this must-have tool.
- New Dual Flush Toilet Kit: This all-inclusive kit is your golden ticket to a water-saving oasis, complete with a new wax ring, bolts, and everything else you’ll need.
- Old Towels or Rags: Things will get messy. It’s always better to be prepared for a splash or two.
- Bucket: A trusty bucket is essential for catching any residual water when you disconnect the old toilet.
Preparation
Alright, before we dive into the nitty-gritty of swapping out your toilet, let’s get everything ready to go. First things first, locate the shut-off valve, usually tucked away behind your toilet. Give it a good turn clockwise to bid farewell to the water flow. Now, give your toilet a final flush to empty the tank and bowl so there’s no lingering surprises.
Next, grab your trusty wrench and carefully disconnect the water supply line, then unscrew the bolts holding your old toilet in place. You might need to give it a gentle wiggle to coax it free. Once the old throne is out of the way, grab your trusty putty knife and scrape away any leftover wax ring and debris from the flange.
Installation Steps
- Install the New Wax Ring: Carefully center the new wax ring over the toilet flange. Position the New Toilet: Gently lower your new porcelain throne onto the flange, making sure the holes in the toilet base line up perfectly with the bolts sticking up from the floor. This might take a bit of finesse, but you’ve got this! Remember to use your level tool to level your toilet before bolting it down.
- Secure the Toilet: Hand-tighten the bolts on both sides, alternating between them to ensure everything stays nice and even. Then, grab your wrench to tighten it some more. Be careful not to overtighten and crack anything.
- Connect the Water Supply: Now for the refreshing part! Reconnect the water supply line to your toilet tank. Make sure it’s snug, but again, don’t overdo it.
- Turn on the Water: Slowly turn that shut-off valve counterclockwise and let the water flow. Keep a close eye out for any leaks. We want a happy, drip-free toilet!
- Install the Tank and Seat: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to attach the tank to the bowl and then pop that toilet seat on top.
- Test the Flush: It’s the moment of truth! Give both the full flush and half flush a test run. Watch for any leaks, and if everything looks good, give yourself a pat on the back. You’ve successfully installed a dual flush toilet!
Troubleshooting Tips
- Leaks: If you spot any pesky drips or puddles, don’t panic! First, shut off the water supply and give all the connections a good tightening, if needed. If the leak persists, you might need to replace the wax ring.
- Wobbling: Uh oh, is your throne feeling a bit unsteady? Don’t worry, it happens! Gently tighten the bolts a tad more after using your level tool, alternating between them until your toilet is sitting pretty. If it’s still a bit wobbly, you might need to slip some shims underneath to level it out.
Additional Tips
- Tile Time: If your bathroom floor is decked out in tiles, you might need to bust out the drill to create new holes for those mounting bolts. It’s a little extra work, but it’ll ensure your new toilet is rock solid.
- Valve Upgrade: If your old shut-off valve is looking a bit worse for wear or is stubborn to turn, it might be worth considering a replacement. It’s a small upgrade that can save you a lot of hassle in the long run.
- When in Doubt, Seek Help: If you’re scratching your head at any point during the installation, don’t hesitate to watch some instructional videos online or even call in a plumber for backup. There’s no shame in asking for help. It’s always best to be safe than sorry in the plumbing industry!
Conclusion
So there you have it! With a bit of elbow grease and a dash of DIY spirit, you’ve successfully upgraded your bathroom with a water-saving wonder. You will help the environment and keep your dollars in your wallet with lower water bills to boot. Installing a dual flush toilet is a win-win project.
Remember, if you ever find yourself second-guessing anything, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional. Now, go forth and enjoy your newfound flushing efficiency!
