Detach a Toilet
This process outlines the best practices for detaching a toilet.
Step 1: Shut off water to the toilet
Turn the Shut off Valve for the water supply line counter clockwise
- There is a Plumbing wrench tool available that makes this easier if it is tough to turn (see image)
There are times when the Valve won't budge - In this case:
- Try placing a hot towel over the valve to heat it up to loosen it
- Try spraying some WD-40 on it to loosen it
If that doesn't work, you may have to have a Licensed Plumber called out to change to valve
Step 2: Empty the tank
Flush and keep the handle down while doing do to remove as much water from the tank as possible
- Use a Plunger to remove any remaining water
Step 3: Detach supply line
Remove Supply line from the toilet
- Place a bucket or small pan to catch any water in the line as it is removed
- Use a pair of channel locks
- Loosen the supply line from the fill valve and remove
Step 4: Remove nuts holding toilet down
- Remove decorative cap to expose the nut on both sides of the toilet
- Use adjustable socket wrench to remove the nuts
Step 5: What to do if the nuts won't come off
What to do if the nuts won't come off
- Spray nut with WD-40(Let sit for a few minutes)
- Affix the Socket wrench to the nut
- Grab onto the top of the Bolt with a pair of Locking Pliers
- Attempt to turn the nut loose
- If that doesn't work, the nut will have to be cut off using a Hacksaw
- use just the blade(hold with Leather Gloves)
- place under the nut on top of the washer
- Have patience as it takes a little while to get all the way through
Step 6: Remove Toilet
Removing the toilet
- Once the bolts are off, simply lift the toilet straight up
- Be sure to keep it level as there is probably still water in the trap
- Make sure the floor is protected (cardboard and/or plastic) where you set it down
Step 7: Store toilet
- Ask the homeowner if there is room in the garage to store it
- It can be placed in the tub or shower HOWEVER, be VERY careful to protect the tub or shower so they are not damaged
- Take before and after photos of tub/shower in case there are existing damages
