When a toilet is in good condition and properly maintained, it can last for decades. Even a toilet over 30 years old can be kept running for years by replacing parts worn out. You may also consider upgrading to a newer model that uses less water, saving you money over time. Some toilet repair or replacement jobs are relatively simple, but others should be left to professionals.
Measure the rough-in distance from the wall behind the bowl to the centre of the toilet floor drain
Before you buy a toilet, it’s essential to measure the rough-in distance between the wall behind the bowl and the centre of the toilet floor drain. This distance is usually about 12 inches. However, you should add about half an inch to account for the thickness of the wall behind the bowl. In addition, you should account for the thickness of the toilet flange. This measurement is important because you need to allow enough room in front of the toilet to remove its tank lid.
Once you’ve determined the rough-in distance, the next step is to mark the location of the toilet floor drain. You can mark the area with painter’s tape and estimate where you would like the drain to go. Make sure you mark the centre of the drainpipe and the wall behind it so you’ll know where to drill the new drainpipe.
Measure the distance from the wall to the centre of either of the hold-down bolts
When fixing a toilet, you will need to determine the rough-in distance. This is the measurement from the wall behind the toilet bowl to the centre of the floor drain. In most cases, the bolt distance is 12 inches. It can also be 11.5 inches. The rough-in distance is important for determining the right mounting location for a new toilet.
If the hold-down bolts are rusted, you’ll need to cut them. To do this, you’ll need an adjustable wrench or pliers. You can also use a penetrating catalyst or lubricant for older toilets to loosen them. WD-40 or PB Blaster will work well for removing rusted bolts. Then, twist the bolts upward to release them. Alternatively, a hacksaw can sever the bolt and remove the toilet.
Check the tank ball at the shutoff valve.
The ball in the tank is one of the first things to check when fixing a toilet. It is made of rubber and seals the flush valve. If it does not seal properly, water will continue to fill the tank and flow into the bowl. This can also be caused by the fill valve not being adjusted properly. You may need to replace the flapper or the ball to fix this problem.
The ball may not be seated properly if the water is constantly running. It may be stuck or bent. If it has sunk below the water level, replace it with a new one. The tank ball must also be inspected to see any signs of wear. If it is, cleans it with steel wool or emery cloth.
Replace a flapper
How to Replace a Flapper on a Toilet: Changing the flapper on a toilet requires some plumbing knowledge. First, you must turn off the water supply valve on your toilet. The valve is a round handle under the toilet tank against the wall. Then, you should empty the tank. Dry the tank with a sponge. Next, unscrew the flapper from the lift wire with pliers.
Toilet flappers are made of flexible rubber or plastic. They lift when the toilet is flushed and keep water from flowing down the toilet bowl. Usually, the flapper is made of rubber, but it can rust after a few years of use. It is therefore important to replace the flapper every couple of years.
Repair a leaky toilet tank
First, identify where the leak is coming from to repair a leaky toilet tank. If the leak comes from under the toilet tank, you can easily find this part by visually inspecting the tank. It should be about 1/2 inch below the overflow pipe. You can also physically locate the leak by feeling for moisture around the leak hole. If the area feels wet, wipe it dry and retest.
Next, find the water supply pipe. This may be an L-shaped pipe or a short pipe attached to the control valve junction. It is attached with a screw.