Category Archives: toilet installation

Jul '24

Why Homeowners Should Hire a Plumber for Toilet Installation

Should you hire a professional plumber to install your new toilet?

Some people will say that you should not. But installing a toilet involves many small detailed steps that require the person doing the job to have a certain level of plumbing know-how, says Propertycare Management. It is one of those plumbing jobs that look simple but have a huge potential to go wrong.

It makes sense to always hire a professional plumber when installing a toilet because problems caused by a single minor error can end up costing you multiple times the money you tried to save. Even worse, those problems can force you to buy a new toilet.

Here are some of the common mistakes people make when installing a toilet:

Common toilet installation mistakes

The toilet is not sealed properly

To prevent leaks from the bottom of your toilet, it is essential to seal it properly. This is done by applying a wax seal during the installation. But if the new wax ring is not done properly, the toilet will leak and bad odors can escape into the home.

Loose pipe connection

Because toilets handle a lot of water, there are many sites where leaks can happen. The chances that a toilet will leak are higher if its different components are not properly connected. Some of these leaks are so small that they are hard to detect.

Using the wrong toilet set-out

The set-out is the distance between the wall and the outlet pipe underneath the toilet bowl. This distance varies depending on several factors. Using the wrong set-out when installing your toilet will cause it to malfunction.

The toilet is wobbly

The constant movements of a toilet seat weaken the wax seal and pipe connections. An unstable toilet is also likely to crack and poses a risk of serious injury to users. If a toilet is loose, the bolts are not properly tightened.

Ignoring existing plumbing issues

A toilet installation is the best time to address existing problems in your toilet. If this is not done, your new toilet will inherit the problems that damaged your old toilet. This does not make any sense at all.

The potential effects of these mistakes can be far-reaching.

Hiring a plumber to install your toilet should not be viewed as a cost but an investment in the proper functioning and longevity of your toilet and other home features.

Problems from poor toilet installation

Three common problems that result from installing a toilet incorrectly are:

Expensive water damage

Water from a leaky toilet may seep into the drywall, flooring, insulation and other parts of your building. The resulting damage can cost thousands of dollars to fix.

Health problem

Mold growth due to persistent toilet leaks can cause a range of health problems among family members; itching, asthma, headaches, dizziness, nausea, redness of the eyes, allergies, and much more.

Costly repairs

The main goal of installing it yourself is to save money. But that goal will be defeated if you are forced to spend money on problems caused by the installation.

Why you should hire a plumber for toilet installation

Here are five reasons to always hire a professional plumber to install a new toilet.

Protect your warranty

Toilet manufacturers will void your warranty if the toilet is not installed by a licensed plumber. This is because they have no way of knowing that the reported problems are not caused by incorrect installation. To ensure that the right procedures are followed, manufacturers always insist that toilet installations be done by an expert.

Prevent leaks

Toilets can leak water into their surrounding areas or run continuously. The first problem will lead to costly water damage, while the second will inflate your water bills. Both issues can be avoided. A professional plumber will help you to minimize the risk of leaks by installing your toilet correctly.

Avoid structural damage

An improperly installed toilet poses a risk to the structures of your building. If your toilet is unstable it will put unnecessary strain on the flooring. The constant movement of the toilet seat can damage your subfloor and lead to expensive damage. Hidden leaks from a toilet can also discharge water into the walls, flooring and ceiling.

Improved water usage

Your toilet can cost or save you money each time you flush it; a lot depends on your choices when installing a toilet. To ensure efficient water usage you need to choose the right toilet and also install it correctly. Mistakes when selecting and installing a toilet are easy to avoid if you hire a professional plumber.

Longer lifespan

Your toilet is unlikely to develop mechanical problems if it is installed by a professional plumber. Although toilets are sturdy enough to hold your weight they are not built to endure some strain. Incorrect installation is one reason why a new toilet starts to show signs of mechanical damage a few years after installation.

Hiring a plumber to install your toilet should not be viewed as a cost but an investment in the proper functioning and longevity of your toilet and other home features.

Jul '23

How to Reduce Your Water Usage With a New Toilet Installation

Did you know that toilets account for a significant portion of household water usage? In fact, according to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), toilets can consume up to 30% of the total water used in an average household. This excessive water usage not only puts a strain on the environment but also adds to your water bills.

If you’re looking to reduce your water consumption and make your home more eco-friendly, one of the most effective steps you can take is to install a new, high-efficiency toilet. In this article, we will guide you through the process of reducing your water usage by upgrading to a water-saving toilet.

Assess Your Existing Toilet

Before purchasing a new toilet, it’s important to evaluate your existing toilet’s water usage. Older toilets typically use significantly more water per flush, ranging from 3.5 to 7 gallons per flush (gpf), compared to modern low-flow toilets that use as little as 1.28 gpf or even less.

Check the manufacturer’s label or search for the model number to determine the flush volume of your current toilet. If it’s an older model with a high gpf, replacing it with a newer water-saving option can lead to substantial water savings.

Select a Low-Flow Toilet

When it comes to choosing a low-flow toilet, consider opting for a Water Sense labeled product. Water Sense is a voluntary certification program sponsored by the EPA, which ensures that water-efficient fixtures meet specific performance criteria while providing exceptional performance.

Look for toilets that are labeled as Water Sense certified, as these fixtures are designed to use no more than 1.28 gpf, providing a water-saving solution without compromising on flushing power.

Consider Dual-Flush Toilets

If you want even more control over your water usage, consider installing a dual-flush toilet. Dual-flush toilets offer two options for flushing: a lower volume flush for liquid waste and a higher volume flush for solid waste. This system allows you to choose the appropriate flush based on the type of waste, resulting in significant water savings.

a professional plumber making repairs for a customer.

While it is possible to install a new toilet on your own, hiring a professional plumber can ensure that the installation process is done correctly and efficiently.

Hire a Professional Plumber

While it is possible to install a new toilet on your own, hiring a professional plumber can ensure that the installation process is done correctly and efficiently. An experienced plumber will have the necessary skills and knowledge to handle the installation, including proper sealing, alignment, and connection to the plumbing system.

Moreover, a professional plumber can also provide expert advice on choosing the right toilet model for your specific needs and preferences, ensuring maximum water savings and performance.

Additional Water-Saving Tips

In addition to installing a water-efficient toilet, you can further reduce your water usage by implementing the following tips:

Check for leaks: Regularly inspect your toilet for leaks by adding a few drops of food coloring to the tank. If the color seeps into the bowl without flushing, there may be a leak that needs to be fixed.

Install a dual-flush conversion kit: If you’re not ready to replace your existing toilet, consider installing a dual-flush conversion kit. These kits can be installed on most standard toilets and allow you to switch to a dual-flush system.

Encourage household water conservation: Educate your family members about the importance of water conservation and encourage behaviors such as turning off the faucet when brushing teeth or taking shorter showers.

Reuse graywater: Consider using graywater (non-potable water collected from various household sources) for activities like watering plants, cleaning, or flushing toilets. Ensure you follow local regulations and guidelines when reusing graywater.

Conclusion

By upgrading to a water-saving toilet, you can significantly reduce your household’s water usage and make a positive impact on the environment. Whether you opt for a low-flow toilet or a dual-flush option, selecting a water-efficient model is a smart investment that will not only conserve water but also save you money on your water bills. Remember to call a plumber for a hassle free toilet installation process and incorporate other water-saving tips into your daily routine to maximize your conservation efforts.

Mar '23

How to Install a New Toilet

Toilet Fitting Guide

Toilets are a critical part of any home or business. Installing a new toilet requires careful planning, the right tools, and a good understanding of plumbing. This guide will walk you through the steps necessary to install a new toilet, from preparing the area to connecting the plumbing.

Toilet Plumbing Instructions

Before installing a new toilet, you must first make sure that the plumbing is in good working order. Check for any leaks or clogs in the existing pipes, and make sure that the water supply is properly connected and functioning. If any repairs are needed, you should make them before installing the new toilet.

New Toilet Installation

1. Begin by selecting a new toilet that meets your needs. Consider factors such as size, shape, style, and water efficiency when making your selection.

2. Turn off the water supply to the toilet. This will prevent any water from entering the pipes while you are working.

3. Disconnect the old water supply line and remove the old toilet. Carefully lift the toilet and place it in an area where it will not be damaged.

4. Clean the area around the toilet and make sure the floor is level. This will help ensure that the new toilet is installed correctly.

5. Place the new toilet in the area where it will be installed. Make sure the toilet is level and that the bolts are securely in place.

6. Connect the water supply line to the new toilet. Make sure all connections are tightened securely.

7. Install the toilet seat and lid. Make sure the toilet seat is securely attached to the toilet.

8. Turn the water supply back on and check for any leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the connections or replace the parts as needed.

9. Test the new toilet by flushing it several times. Make sure the flushing mechanism is functioning properly and that the water level is correct.

10. Finally, clean the area around the new toilet and make sure everything is in its proper place.

Installing a new toilet is a relatively simple process, but it should be done carefully and correctly. By following these steps, you can ensure that your new toilet is properly installed and ready to use. If all else fails on your DIY toilet installation, you can always reach out to a local plumber for help.