The ABC’s of Plumbing – Toilet Wax Ring

If you’re noticing water around the base of your toilet, the cause may be a worn toilet wax ring. Made from a molded wax loop around a short plastic tube, wax rings are designed to fit almost any toilet and floor drain by conforming to the shape and size of the fitting. One benefit of wax is it’s ability to resist mold and bacteria and retain a secure seal for many years.

Whenever a toilet is removed for any reason the wax ring seal should be replaced. If the toilet wobbles from side to side, or the height at the base is changed (when going from a vinyl floor to tile, for example) the toilet anchor flange should also be replaced or a spacer added to fill the gap.

If you’re replacing a wax ring because of a leak around the base of the toilet, be sure to inspect the subfloor around the toilet for water damage and make any necessary repairs before mounting the toilet back to the floor.

Need help installing a new wax ring on your toilet? Call ABC Southwest Plumbing & Air Conditioning, we can help.