How to Fix Your Toilet (But Why You Really Need a Technician)

We know that plumbing issues can be a hassle, and when it comes to your toilet, even a small problem can cause big headaches. Luckily, our technicians are always up for the task. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the process of resetting your toilet but also explain why calling a professional technician can save you time, frustration, and money in the long run.

What Does It Mean to "Reset" or Install a New Toilet?

Resetting a toilet refers to reseating it onto the floor flange to ensure a proper seal and fix common issues like leaks, rocking, or uneven placement. Over time, the wax seal between the toilet and the floor flange can degrade, causing leaks or the toilet to become unstable. Resetting is necessary to prevent water damage and maintain a fully functioning toilet. It’s generally recommended to reset or install a new toilet every 10 to 15 years or whenever you notice signs of leaking instability, or water damage around the base.

Common Signs You Need to Reset Your Toilet

If you’re experiencing any of the following, it’s likely time to reset your toilet:

• Water Leaks: If you notice water pooling around the base of your toilet, it’s a strong indication that the wax seal is compromised, and the toilet needs to be reset.

• Toilet Rocking: A toilet should remain stable when you sit on it. If it wobbles or rocks back and forth, the bolts may be loose, or the wax seal may need to be replaced.

• Unpleasant Smells: A faulty wax ring can allow sewer gasses to escape into your bathroom, resulting in a bad odor that’s hard to ignore.

• Floor Damage: If your bathroom floor is damp or starting to show signs of water damage, it could be due to a leak at the base of the toilet. Floor damage from a toilet leak often starts with small signs like discoloration, soft spots, or warped tiles. Over time, the floor may begin to swell, especially with wood or laminate flooring, and if left untreated, it can lead to mold growth or rotting, causing significant structural damage.

Steps to Reset Your Toilet

Disclaimer: While you can follow these steps to reset your toilet on your own, we strongly recommend hiring a professional technician to ensure the job is done correctly and to avoid potential issues.

1. Shut Off the Water Supply
   First, turn off the water supply to the toilet. This is typically done by turning the valve located behind the toilet clockwise.

2. Drain the Toilet
   Flush the toilet to drain the tank and bowl. Use a sponge or towels to soak up any remaining water from the bowl and tank.

3. Disconnect the Water Supply Line
   Use an adjustable wrench to disconnect the water supply line from the toilet tank. Be sure to place a towel underneath the connection point to catch any excess water.

4. Remove the Toilet
   Using your wrench, loosen and remove the bolts at the base of the toilet. Carefully lift the toilet straight up and set it aside. This can be heavy, so having an extra set of hands can be helpful.

5. Remove the Old Wax Ring
   Use a putty knife to scrape off the old wax ring from the floor flange. Be sure to clean the area thoroughly.

6. Install a New Wax Ring
   Place a new wax ring over the flange. Be careful to position it evenly to ensure a good seal.

7. Reseat the Toilet
   Carefully lift the toilet and set it back onto the flange, aligning the bolt holes in the toilet base with the bolts on the floor. Press down to compress the wax ring and create a watertight seal.

8. Tighten the Bolts
   Reattach the bolts and tighten them. Be sure not to overtighten, as this could crack the toilet’s porcelain base.

9. Reconnect the Water Supply Line
   Reconnect the water supply line to the tank and turn the water back on. Once the tank is full, flush the toilet to check for leaks.

Why You Should Call a Technician

While we all want to handle home repairs ourselves, it's crucial to get it done right the first time. Small mistakes can lead to bigger, more costly problems in the future. Here's why calling a professional technician is recommended:

1. Proper Diagnosis of the Issue

While a worn-out wax ring is a common culprit behind toilet leaks, it might not be the only problem. If the flange is cracked or damaged, simply replacing the wax ring won’t fix the issue. A professional plumber can assess the situation and determine whether other components, such as the flange or the toilet base, need repair or replacement.

2. Ensuring a Proper Seal

Improperly resetting a toilet can lead to future leaks, water damage, and increased repair costs. Experienced technicians know how to correctly align the toilet on the flange, ensuring the wax ring creates a solid, long-lasting seal. In Austin, where hard water can accelerate wear on plumbing fixtures, it’s especially important to ensure a tight, reliable seal.

3. Avoiding Additional Damage

Toilets are heavy and fragile. If you’re not careful, you can easily crack the porcelain or damage your bathroom floor during the removal and installation process. Austin homes often feature unique flooring materials, and a minor mistake could result in costly tile or flooring repairs. A professional plumber will have the right tools and experience to handle your toilet with care.

4. Time and Convenience

Let’s be honest: resetting a toilet is a time-consuming task. It requires physical labor, the right tools, and careful attention to detail. When you call a technician from 1st Home & Commercial Services, you save yourself the hassle of troubleshooting and wrestling with a heavy toilet. Our experts can get the job done quickly and efficiently, allowing you to focus on your day.

5. Long-Term Cost Savings

While DIY fixes may seem cheaper upfront, improper repairs can lead to costly problems down the line. Water damage, mold growth, and damaged flooring can all result from a poorly reset toilet. Calling a professional ensures the job is done right the first time, preventing future headaches and repair bills.

Trust the Experts at 1st Home & Commercial Services

At 1st Home & Commercial Services, we’ve been helping Austin homeowners with their plumbing needs for over 10 years. Whether it’s resetting a toilet, fixing a leaky faucet, or providing full-service plumbing repairs, our experienced technicians are here to help.

If you’re experiencing toilet issues or suspect a problem with your wax ring or flange, don’t hesitate to call us. We’ll provide a thorough assessment and ensure your toilet is reset properly and safely. After all, peace of mind is worth the investment.

Call us today or visit our website to schedule an appointment. Your home deserves the best, and we’re here to deliver just that!