Monahan’s Plumbing Blog

A Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing a Toilet and Toilet Flange: Featuring the SuperRing®

Mon, 09 Feb 2026 20:08:56 GMT

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the steps for replacing a toilet, the importance of a properly installed toilet flange, and why the SuperRing® toilet flange is the ideal solution for your next project.

Replacing a toilet and its toilet flange might seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools, knowledge, and preparation, it's a manageable DIY project that can save you time and money. Whether you're renovating your bathroom or dealing with a leaking toilet, knowing how to change a toilet and replace a worn-out toilet flange can restore the functionality and efficiency of your plumbing system.

Tools and Materials You'll Need

Before diving into the steps, gather the following tools and materials:

New toilet
Replacement toilet flange ( SuperRing recommended )
Toilet bolts and washers
Adjustable wrench ( Adjustable Combination ) ( Water Pump Pliers )
Screwdriver
Putty knife
Plumber’s tape (optional)
Bucket or towels (for water drainage)
Sponge or rag
Wax ring
Silicone sealant (optional)
Caulk gun (optional)

Step 1: Remove the Old Toilet

Turn off the water supply to the toilet by locating the shutoff valve behind the toilet. Turn it clockwise to close.
Drain the tank : Flush the toilet to drain out as much water as possible. Use a sponge or rag to soak up any remaining water in the tank and bowl.
Disconnect the water supply line : Use an adjustable wrench to disconnect the water supply line from the toilet tank.
Remove the toilet bolts : Use a wrench or screwdriver to unscrew the nuts on the toilet bolts at the base of the toilet. If the bolts are rusted, you may need to use some penetrating oil to loosen them.
Lift the toilet : Once the bolts are removed, gently rock the toilet back and forth to break the wax seal. Carefully lift the toilet off the flange and set it aside.
Clean the flange : Scrape off any wax residue from the flange using a putty knife. Clean the area around the flange to prepare it for the new toilet and flange.

Step 2: Inspect the Toilet Flange

The toilet flange is an important component that connects the toilet to the drainpipe and seals the drain opening. A damaged or corroded flange can cause leaks and foul odors. In many cases, the flange needs to be replaced when installing a new toilet.

Check for damage : Inspect the toilet flange for cracks, breaks, or corrosion. If it is in poor condition, it’s essential to replace it to ensure a secure seal between the toilet and drainpipe.
Height of the flange : The flange should sit at floor level or slightly above the floor. If the flange is too low, you will need to raise it with a flange extender.

Step 2A: Applying the Wax Ring

One of the key components for ensuring a secure seal between your toilet and the toilet flange is the wax ring. It creates a watertight barrier that prevents leaks, odors, and potential water damage. Here’s how to properly apply the wax ring before installing the toilet:

Why Use a Wax Ring?

A wax ring is an essential component of the toilet installation process, as it provides a durable seal between the toilet base and the toilet flange. Although the SuperRing® flange already has a built-in compression seal, you may still need to use a wax ring if the flange doesn’t provide a sufficient seal or if you're installing a traditional setup.

How to Apply the Wax Ring:

Position the Wax Ring : Start by placing the wax ring on the toilet flange or the bottom of the toilet’s outlet. If you're using a traditional wax ring, it’s typically a good idea to position it directly on the flange, ensuring that it’s centered around the opening.
Check for the Right Fit : Make sure the wax ring fits snugly around the flange. If necessary, use a second wax ring for added sealing power if the flange is too deep or if you want extra security against leaks.
Press Down Firmly : Once the wax ring is in place, gently press the toilet onto the flange. As you lower the toilet, the wax ring will compress, forming a seal between the toilet and the flange. Be careful not to move the toilet too much, as shifting can disturb the placement of the wax ring, which may result in an improper seal.
Avoid Over-tightening : When the toilet is properly positioned, tighten the bolts just enough to secure the toilet to the flange. Over-tightening can crack the toilet or damage the flange, so it’s important to apply only moderate pressure.

Wax Ring Maintenance Tip:

If you notice any leaks around the base of your toilet after installation, it could indicate that the wax ring was improperly seated. In such cases, the toilet may need to be lifted and the wax ring re-applied. Make sure the flange and toilet are both clean and free of debris to avoid disturbing the new seal.

By following these steps, you’ll create a long-lasting, leak-free seal, ensuring that your new toilet installation is smooth and secure.

Step 3: Installing the New Toilet Flange

If you’ve determined that the toilet flange needs replacing, here's where the SuperRing flange comes in.

Why Choose the SuperRing Toilet Flange ?

Quickly repairs wobbling, loose or leaking toilets
Slotted to fit 1/4" or 5/16" toilet mounting bolts
Securely tightens the toilet directly to wood or concrete subfloors
Powder-coated, heavy-gauge steel for corrosion resistance and long lift
Patent Pending—the original SuperRing is only available from Superior Tool
12 pack
Proudly made in the USA

Toilet Repair Guide: When to DIY and When to Call a Plumber Near You

Thu, 30 Oct 2025 08:54:51 GMT

A running or leaking toilet can be more than just an annoyance — it can waste hundreds of gallons of water every day and drive up your utility bills. If you’ve ever jiggled the handle to stop the noise or noticed water pooling around the base, it’s time to take action. In this guide, we’ll break down the most common toilet problems, simple fixes you can try yourself, and when it’s best to call a licensed plumber near you in Cape Coral.

Common Toilet Problems

1. Running Toilet

A constantly running toilet usually means there’s a problem with the flapper, fill valve, or float. Over time, these rubber and plastic parts wear out and stop sealing properly. Replacing the flapper is often an easy DIY job, but if the issue persists, it could be a sign of mineral buildup in the valve system.

2. Clogged Toilet

Clogs happen to everyone — sometimes from flushing too much paper or non-flushable items. A plunger can usually handle simple clogs, but if your toilet frequently backs up or drains slowly, you may have a deeper blockage in the sewer line that requires professional equipment.

3. Leaking Toilet Base

Water pooling around the base of your toilet can mean the wax ring seal has failed. This isn’t a repair you want to put off — leaking wastewater can damage your floors and create unsanitary conditions. A professional plumber can replace the wax ring and ensure a proper seal.

4. Weak Flush

If your toilet isn’t flushing as powerfully as it used to, mineral buildup or a partial clog could be to blame. Cleaning the rim jets or clearing the trapway might help, but sometimes the issue is with your home’s water pressure.

When to Call a Professional Plumber

While some minor toilet repairs are easy for homeowners, others require specialized tools or experience. You should contact a local plumber in Cape Coral if:

The toilet leaks from the tank or base
You’ve tried DIY fixes without success
There’s frequent clogging or gurgling sounds
The toilet wobbles or shifts when you sit on it
You notice water damage or high water bills

A qualified plumber will inspect your system, pinpoint the cause, and repair or replace the toilet if necessary — saving you time, water, and frustration.

Preventative Maintenance Tips

Avoid flushing wipes, feminine products, or paper towels
Check for leaks monthly by adding food coloring to the tank (if it appears in the bowl without flushing, there’s a leak)
Tighten any loose bolts carefully to prevent cracks
Schedule annual plumbing inspections to catch small problems early

Need Toilet Repair in Cape Coral?

If you’re experiencing any of these toilet issues, don’t wait for a small problem to become a big one. Monahan’s Plumbing provides fast, reliable, and affordable toilet repair and replacement services throughout Cape Coral and surrounding areas.

Whether you’re searching for a “plumber near me” or need same-day service, our experienced team is ready to help.

Call Monahan’s Plumbing today for expert toilet repair in Cape Coral!  (239) 541-9527  .

Water Heater Care and Maintainence

Wed, 03 Sep 2025 09:26:41 GMT

1. Water heaters just like any other appliance in your home needs regular maintenance and cleaning.

It is important for the home owner to be sure that regular evaluations of the water heaters operation and condition be done through out its service life. We must note that any leaks in the piping area of the heater be addressed if seen as soon as possible to prevent damage to the top of the water heater and the electrical connections.

Any water at the top of a water heater can be dangerous and an electrical hazard. Once we are sure that no water is dripping on the top of the tank we should look at the condition of the piping. If the piping seams to have a greenish color or has corrosion it might be time to call a plumber by googling "plumber near me". Here we can find a plumber that will be able to make the repair to the water heater alternatively you may google "monahansplumbing.com" to get your heater serviced.

2.You should look at the top and the outside jacket of the water heater for any rusting and note any water or drip marks coming from the two inspection plates in the front of the heater. Please note that the plates have one screw at the top. DO NOT attempt to remove the screws. If your water heater is dripping water or rust stains are showing contact a professional for further evaluation.

3. When we are sure that there is no leaking and the pipes are in good shape we can now proceed to do general maintenance to our water heater. Firstly, do not keep flammable items or liquid around the water heater. Secondly, clear any items along the sides and rear of the water heater.

4. Draining the water heater periodically can add years to your water heater.

To drain your water heater make sure you shut off the power to your heater. If there is a plug, pull the plug straight out. Go to your circuit breaker panel and search for the switch that shuts down power to your water heater. After you shut the electric to your heater, then you need to turn off the valve located on the right side on top of the water heater. When the water is shut down and the electricity is shut off then we can go to the next step.

You may now hook up a garden hose to the bottom of the water hear making sure that it is screwed on firmly. Extend the hose out away from the house preferably to your drive way. Now open the valve where you connected the hose. Turn the valve counter clockwise with a screw driver until you hear water flowing and you may see the water flowing out to your driveway along with sediments and debris. When the water runs clear then you can turn off the valve and your job is complete. If no water comes out of your hose or it starts and stops then there is too much sediment. You will need to contact a professional and go to " Monahansplumbing.com " and make an appointment to have your heater serviced.

When we don't service the heater periodically the sediment build up tends to lodge itself around the bottom electrical elements. If this goes on for sometime it can cause premature failure of the heater. Therefore, this service is necessary to be done especially in Florida. We hope that you have found this information informative and if you have any questions or you are in need of service you can call us at  (239) 541-9527  .