Replacing a toilet tank may seem like a lot of work, but with the right tools and detailed guidelines, you can get the job done in a jiffy. Read the HomeQuicks article for step-by-step information.
Whether you have a cracked tank or a leak/faulty valve, it’s essential to replace the old toilet tank. Calling a plumber or handyman in for the job can take up a lot of time and money. But why wait for someone to come and finish the task when you can get it done by yourself? Take a look at the following steps, and you’ll see how easy it really is.
Replacing a Toilet Tank
The replacement parts can be purchased from your local hardware store. To find the best value and save some money, purchase the entire replacement kit instead of looking for individual parts.
Step #1: Take the correct measurement of your old tank so that you can get the correct replacement kit; take proper notes of each and every section, jot down the brand name, and get the serial number, if possible. Ask for assistance from the sales staff in helping you find the right kit. Once you have the new tank, you can begin the actual procedure to replace the tank.
Step #2: Shut the water supply off to the toilet and drain the entire tank properly. Check if there is a water shut-off valve present for the toilet; if so, then turn it off. Flush the toilet a couple of times, or more, so that it is drained completely. If there is some water left, take a few sponges or old rags to soak up the excess water left at the bottom of the bowl.
Step #3: Now it’s time to remove the nuts. Unscrew the nuts that are underneath the bowl. You will need a WD-40 lubricant to make this process a little bit easier. Apply the lubricant and let it sit for some time; the lubricant will work its magic and loosen the nuts. Try unscrewing the nuts once the WD-40 has had time to settle in. And if the nuts still don’t bulge, try to saw through them.
Step #4: The next step, after removing the nuts, is changing the valves and washers. The replacement kit will have the new valves, washers, cone-shaped gaskets, and a new tank cushion gasket as well. Replace every washer and bolt that you see.
Step #5: This is the final step where you will lift the old tank off the toilet, and gently place the new one in. The rubber cushion which is between the two parts, you will place the new tank on top of that. Screw the new bolts in place, through the tank and the bottom of the toilet. And now the nuts go on as well. Make sure the nuts are secured tightly with a wrench.
With a damn mop, clean the area around the toilet. If, at any point, you feel that you won’t be able to finish the task at hand, don’t waste any time and call a professional and trusted plumber immediately.