Installing a toilet in your home may seem like a simple task, but there are several factors to consider before determining the best location for your new bathroom fixture.
You can install a toilet anywhere in your house as long as you are able to access the main sewer line and run piping to the location where you want your toilet to be.
In this article, we will discuss the steps you need to take to ensure that your toilet is properly installed and functions efficiently.
Cost of Installing a Toilet
The cost of installing a toilet in a new space in your house can vary depending on several factors such as the type of toilet you choose, the complexity of the installation, and the location of your home.
On average, the cost to install a new toilet can range from $200 to $600, but it can be more or less depending on the factors mentioned above.
Here are some things that can affect the cost of installing a toilet:
- The type of toilet: Prices for toilets can vary greatly, with basic models starting at around $100 and high-end models costing several thousand dollars.
- The complexity of the installation: Installing a toilet in a new space in your house may require additional work such as running new plumbing lines or making changes to the existing sewer line. This will add to the overall cost of the installation.
- The location of your home: If you live in an area with a high cost of living, the cost of labor may be higher, which will increase the overall cost of the installation.
It’s worth noting that if you’re installing a toilet in a new space, additional costs may include:
- Creating a new bathroom space, including walls, flooring, and ventilation
- Running new electrical and plumbing lines
- Installing new fixtures such as a shower, sink, and lighting.
If you are going to be hiring a contractor to do the work, it’s recommended to get a few quotes from different plumbers in your area to get an accurate estimate of the cost of the installation.
Location of the Main Sewer Line
The first thing to consider when choosing a location for your new toilet is the location of your home’s main sewer line. This line carries waste and water away from your home, and it is essential that your toilet is connected to it. If your main sewer line is located on the opposite side of your home from where you want to install your toilet, you will need to have a new line installed, which can be a costly and time-consuming process.
Layout of the Bathroom
Once you have determined the location of your main sewer line, you will need to consider the layout of your bathroom. Ideally, your toilet should be located near a wall to make it easy to connect to the sewer line. You should also consider the location of other bathroom fixtures, such as your shower or bathtub, to ensure that your toilet does not impede their use. The same will be important if you are adding a toilet in a room that would not normally be called a bathroom.
Type of Toilet
Next, you will need to decide on the type of toilet you want to install. There are several different types of toilets available, including traditional gravity flush toilets, pressure-assisted toilets, and dual flush toilets. Each type has its own unique features and benefits, so it is important to research and compare the options before making a decision.
There is also the option of installing a macerating toilet and sewage ejector pump, which will save you the work of plumbing.
Macerating toilets work by using a macerating unit, which is typically located behind or underneath the toilet, to grind up the waste and toilet paper into a slurry. This slurry is then pumped through a small-diameter pipe to the main sewer line or septic system. Because the waste is ground up and pumped through a smaller pipe, macerating toilets can be installed in locations where a traditional toilet cannot be installed, such as a basement or a second-story bathroom.
A sewage ejector pump, also known as a sewage pump, is a device that is used to pump waste and water from a lower level of a building to a higher level, such as from a basement to the main sewer line. These pumps are commonly used in residential and commercial properties where the sewer line is located at a higher elevation than the fixtures, such as in a basement bathroom or laundry room.
Gathering the Necessary Materials
Once you have chosen the type of toilet you want to install, you will need to purchase the necessary parts and tools. These will include a toilet bowl, tank, and lid, a wax ring, a flush valve, and a supply line. You will also need a few basic tools, such as a level, a pipe cutter, and a wrench.
How To Install a Toilet
It is recommended to bring in a professional or team of professionals to install your toilet, but if you have the skills to do it yourself you will start by removing the old toilet. The installation process begins by turning off the water supply to the area where the toilet is to be installed. Next, you will need to remove the old toilet, which can typically be done by loosening the bolts that hold it to the floor and lifting it off.
Installing the Wax Ring
The next step is to install the new wax ring, which is placed between the bottom of the toilet bowl and the top of the flange.
Attaching the Toilet Bowl
The toilet bowl is then positioned over the wax ring and pressed firmly down onto the flange. The bolts are then inserted through the base of the toilet bowl and tightened securely to hold the toilet in place.
Attaching the Tank and Other Components
After the toilet is securely attached to the floor, the tank is then attached to the bowl. The flush valve is also connected to the tank, and the supply line is connected to the valve.
Testing for Leaks
Finally, the water supply is turned back on and the toilet is tested for leaks.
Should I Hire a Plumber To Install My Toilet?
It is recommended to hire a plumber to install your toilet if you do not have experience with plumbing or if you are unsure of the local plumbing codes and regulations. A plumber will have the necessary knowledge, skills, and tools to properly install your toilet and ensure that it is connected to the sewer line in a safe and efficient manner.
Hiring a plumber also offers many benefits such as:
- They will have the necessary permits and licenses required to perform the installation, which will ensure that your installation is up to code and comply with local regulations.
- They will be able to identify and fix any potential problems that may arise during the installation process, such as leaks or improper connections.
- They will be able to ensure that your toilet is installed at the proper height and angle for optimal performance.
- They will be able to test your toilet for leaks and make any necessary adjustments to ensure proper function.
- They will also be able to provide you with a warranty for their work, so you have peace of mind knowing that if anything goes wrong, they will fix it.
In conclusion, installing a toilet in your home is a relatively straightforward process, but it does require some planning and preparation. By considering the location of your main sewer line, the layout of your bathroom, and the type of toilet you want to install, you can ensure that your new bathroom fixture is properly installed and functions efficiently. With a little bit of research and the right tools, you can have your new toilet up and running in no time. It’s important to note that the best location for a toilet is one that is accessible, convenient, and allows for easy connection to the sewer line. Additionally, it is also important to consider the local plumbing codes and regulations before installing a toilet in any location in your home.