How To Install a Water Saving Toilet

Homeowners who are wasting money and water with older toilet models should consider installing newer and more environmentally friendly alternatives. Water-saving toilets use less water than old models, and can ultimately save homeowners money. Read how to install your own water-saving toilet in the guide below, and watch the video above for tips from This Old House plumbing and heating expert Richard Trethewey. 

Why Install a Water-Saving Toilet?

Water-saving toilets benefit homeowners and the environment.  Below are some reasons you should consider upgrading.  

• Environmental impact: Water-saving toilets conserve water and reduce the strain on municipal water systems.
• Improved performance: Many water-saving toilets include advanced flushing mechanisms that perform more efficiently than older models.
• Lower utility bills: Using less water means lower water bills. 
• Reduced water consumption: Modern toilets use 1.6 gallons per flush, and water-saving toilets can use as few as 1.1 gallons, according to Princeton University. Older models can use up to 7 gallons.

Preparing to Install a Water Saving Toilet

Tools

Shopping List

Pick up the materials below before you begin the installation process: 

• Caulk and caulk gun
• Closet bolts
• New water-saving toilet
• Sponge and bucket
• Wax ring

Research local plumbing codes and regulations. You could end up with more problems down the road if your toilet isn’t up to code.

Removing the Old Toilet

The first step in installing a new toilet is to remove the old one. Follow these steps:

1. Shut the water off at the toilet. The shut-off valve should be to the left of the toilet.
2. Flush the toilet to drain out as much water as possible. You can remove the rest with a sponge and bucket. 
3. Break the water connection from the hose to the toilet tank. You can usually loosen it with your hands.
4. Use the open-ended adjustable wrench to loosen the closet bolts on both sides of the toilet. Remove the nut and the washer.
5. Use the grips under the toilet to carefully lift the toilet straight up off the bolts.
6. Remove the wax around the flange using a putty knife. Wear gloves.
7. Make sure the closet flange is intact. Replace it if it’s broken.

Take your time while removing the old toilet to avoid damaging the existing plumbing connections or the floor around the toilet. If you damage any of the plumbing, you may run into issues with your new toilet.

How To Install a Water-Saving Toilet

Once you’ve removed your old toilet, you can install your new water-saving model. Follow the steps below. 

1. Assemble the new toilet using brass tank bolts and the tank-to-bowl gasket, both of which should come with the new toilet.
2. Attach the new toilet seat to the bowl.
3. Insert new closet bolts into the flange.
4. Add a new wax ring to the flange.
5. Carefully put the new toilet back on the flange and push it into the wax ring to set it.
6. Add the toilet cap base to the closet bolts on both sides.
7. Put the washer and nut back onto the closet bolts. Secure them on both sides with the open-ended adjustable wrench. Secure each side and do not overtighten, which could damage the toilet
8. Use the mini hacksaw to carefully cut the closet bolts close to the nut.
9. Add the toilet cap to the closet bolt. It should snap right into the cap base.
10. Hand-tighten the water connection back to the toilet.
11. Turn the water back on.
12. Caulk the area around the bottom of the toilet.

Make sure the new toilet is level and secure. Double-check all connections after you turn the water supply back on, and flush the toilet a few times to make sure everything works correctly.

Dual-Flush Technology in Water Saving Toilets

Many modern water-saving toilets feature dual-flush technology, which allows users to choose between the two flush options below.

• A full flush, which is typically 1.6 gallons, for solid waste
• A reduced flush, which is around 1.1 gallons, for liquid waste

Troubleshooting Common Issues With Water Saving Toilets

You may run into issues even if you install the toilet correctly. Read about problems you might encounter and solutions below. 

• Leaks: Check all connections and tighten them if necessary. If leaks persist, you may have a faulty unit, or may need to replace the wax ring on the bottom of the toilet.
• Running toilet: This often indicates a problem with the flapper or fill valve. Inspect these components and replace them if necessary.
• Weak flush: Make sure you have set the water level in the tank correctly. Adjust the fill valve if necessary. Obstructions in the flush valve or trapway may also cause a weak flush.

If you encounter any problems beyond those above, you should call a licensed plumber.