How to Install a Low-Flow Toilet

T-oilets are the silent workhorses of your home, and upgrading to a low-flow model is one of the most effective ways to lower your monthly water bill while improving bathroom performance. Modern engineering has bridged the gap between water conservation and flushing power, meaning you no longer have to sacrifice performance for efficiency. Installing a new toilet is a manageable task if you respect the weight of the ceramic and the importance of a proper seal. When done well, the base is rock-solid, the connection is leak-free, and you have modernized a critical piece of your home's infrastructure in just a few hours.

1. Drain water first. Close the water supply valve behind the toilet and flush to drain the tank. Use a sponge or small container to remove any remaining water from the tank and bowl base.
2. Break the wax seal. Disconnect the water supply line from the tank. Unscrew the floor bolts, gently rock the toilet to break the wax seal, and lift it straight up off the flange.
3. Scrape old wax away. Scrape away the old wax ring from the floor flange using a putty knife. Ensure the flange is level and securely bolted to the subfloor before proceeding.
4. Perfect the seal. Place the new wax ring onto the flange or the base of the new toilet bowl. Position the bowl over the flange and press down firmly to create a airtight, watertight seal.
5. Anchor the bowl. Tighten the nuts onto the floor bolts, alternating sides to keep the pressure even. Install the plastic caps to finish the look.
6. Connect water supply. Bolt the tank onto the bowl using the provided gaskets and hardware. Reconnect the water supply line and open the valve to fill the tank.