Installing an RV toilet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure that the toilet is installed properly. In the following article, we will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to install an RV toilet.
The first step is to gather the necessary tools and materials. You will need the following tools: a screwdriver, a wrench, a pair of pliers, and a level. You will also need the following materials: an RV toilet, a toilet flange, a wax ring, and a floor sealant. Once you have gathered the necessary tools and materials, you can begin the installation process.
The first step is to remove the old toilet. To do this, turn off the water supply to the toilet and then disconnect the water supply line. Next, remove the bolts that hold the toilet to the floor. Once the bolts have been removed, you can lift the toilet off of the floor. Be sure to dispose of the old toilet properly.
Materials and Tools Required
To successfully install an RV toilet, gather the following essential materials and tools:
Toilet Flange
The toilet flange is a crucial component that connects the toilet to the waste pipe. Choose a flange specifically designed for RV applications, as it must be able to withstand the rigors of RV travel and prevent leaks.
Consider using a flange made from durable materials like ABS plastic or stainless steel. These materials resist corrosion and can handle the weight of the toilet and occupants comfortably.
Another important aspect of the toilet flange is its height. RV flanges typically come in two heights: 12 inches and 14 inches. Measure the distance between the subfloor and the top of the finished floor to determine the correct flange height.
For precise measurements, consider using a laser level to ensure a consistent height throughout the installation.
The flange should be secured to the subfloor using screws or bolts, depending on the flange type. Ensure the flange is level and firmly attached to prevent movement or leaks.
RV Toilet
Choose an RV toilet specifically designed for recreational vehicles. These toilets are compact, lightweight, and engineered to handle the unique challenges of RV living, such as limited space and vibration.
Consider the following factors when selecting an RV toilet:
- Type: Gravity-flush or pump-flush toilets have their pros and cons. Decide which type aligns with your RV’s water system and usage patterns.
- Bowl Shape: Round or elongated bowls offer different levels of comfort and space utilization.
- Size: Measure the available space in your RV bathroom to ensure the toilet fits comfortably.
Other Tools and Materials
In addition to the toilet flange and toilet, you will need the following tools and materials:
| Tool/Material | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Screwdriver or drill | Securing the flange and toilet |
| Adjustable wrench or pliers | Connecting the water supply and drain hose |
| Plumber’s putty or wax ring | Sealing the connection between the toilet and flange |
| Measuring tape or laser level | Ensuring accurate measurements and level installation |
| Level | Verifying the toilet’s level position |
Removing the Old Toilet
To remove the old toilet, follow these steps:
1. Shut Off the Water Supply
Locate the water supply valve behind the toilet and turn it clockwise to shut off the water. Flush the toilet to drain any remaining water from the tank and bowl.
2. Disconnect the Water Supply Line
Locate the water supply line that connects to the bottom of the toilet tank. Using an adjustable wrench or pliers, loosen the nuts that hold the line in place. Disconnect the line and allow the remaining water to drain. Be cautious not to overtighten the nuts as this can damage the line or the toilet tank. When disconnecting the old water supply line, place a towel underneath the connection to catch any residual water and prevent it from spilling on the floor. If you encounter any resistance when loosening the nuts, apply a penetrating oil to the threads and allow it to sit for a few minutes before attempting to loosen them.
3. Remove the Toilet Bolts
Locate the two toilet bolts that hold the toilet to the floor. Using a socket wrench or adjustable wrench, remove the nuts from the bolts. Lift the toilet straight up and off the bolts and carefully set it aside in a secure location.
4. Clean the Toilet Flange
Once the toilet is removed, clean the toilet flange on the floor where the toilet was installed. Remove any old wax ring or sealant from the flange. The toilet flange is a flange that is installed on the floor and provides a base for the toilet to sit on. It is important to clean the toilet flange thoroughly to ensure a proper seal between the toilet and the flange.
Now that the old toilet has been removed, you are ready to install the new toilet.
Installing the Floor Flange
1. Mark the location of the floor flange on the subfloor. The flange should be centered over the drainpipe and should be about 1/4 inch above the finished floor level.
2. Drill a 1/2-inch pilot hole through the subfloor at the center of the flange.
3. Apply a bead of silicone sealant around the base of the flange.
4. Insert the flange into the pilot hole and tighten the bolts until the flange is secure.
Additional Details for Step 3:
The best way to apply a bead of silicone sealant around the base of the flange is to use a caulking gun. Hold the gun at a 45-degree angle to the flange and squeeze the trigger slowly while moving the gun around the perimeter of the flange. The bead of sealant should be about 1/4 inch thick.
After applying the sealant, use your finger or a small tool to smooth out the bead and remove any excess sealant. The sealant will help to keep water from leaking around the flange and causing damage to the subfloor.
Tip: Use a level to make sure that the flange is level before tightening the bolts. This will help to ensure that the toilet will be installed correctly.
| Tools Needed |
|---|
| Caulking gun |
| 1/2-inch drill |
| Level |
| Wrench |
Mounting the Toilet Base
1. Position the Toilet Base: Place the toilet base over the flange, aligning the bolt holes.
2. Mark the Bolt Holes: Using a pencil or marker, mark the locations of the bolt holes on the floor.
3. Remove the Base: Lift the toilet base off the flange to make way for drilling the bolt holes.
4. Drill the Bolt Holes:
a. Choose the appropriate drill bit size for the type of flooring (e.g., ceramic tile, vinyl).
b. Wear safety glasses and ensure proper ventilation when drilling.
c. Drill pilot holes at the marked bolt hole locations, using a depth gauge or drill stop to control the depth.
d. Vacuum or sweep away any dust or debris from the holes before proceeding.
5. Insert Floor Bolts: Insert the floor bolts into the holes and tighten them securely using a wrench or screwdriver.
6. Reposition the Base: Place the toilet base back over the flange and align it with the floor bolts.
7. Secure the Base: Tighten the nuts onto the floor bolts to secure the base to the flange.
| Drilling Tool | Uses |
|---|---|
| Drywall saw | Cutting drywall |
| Hacksaw | Cutting metal |
| Caulk gun | Applying caulk |
| Level | Ensuring surfaces are level |
Connecting the Toilet Bowl
The toilet bowl is the most visible part of the RV toilet, and it is also the most important part in terms of ensuring a proper seal. To connect the toilet bowl, first, remove the bolts that hold the toilet flange to the floor. Then, lift the toilet bowl off the flange and set it aside place the new toilet bowl gasket on the flange. Align the toilet bowl with the flange and lower it into place. Replace the bolts and tighten them until the toilet bowl is secure.
Align the Toilet Bowl
To ensure a proper seal, the toilet bowl must be properly aligned with the flange. To do this, place the toilet bowl on the flange and gently rock it back and forth until it is seated properly. Once the toilet bowl is aligned, tighten the bolts until the toilet bowl is secure.
Tighten the Bolts
The final step is to tighten the bolts that hold the toilet bowl to the flange. Use a wrench to tighten the bolts until they are snug, but do not overtighten them. Overtightening the bolts can crack the toilet bowl or damage the flange.
Test the Toilet
After the toilet is installed, it is important to test it to make sure it is working properly. To do this, flush the toilet and check for leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the bolts until the leaks stop.
Connect the Water Supply
The last step is to connect the water supply to the toilet. To do this, attach the water supply line to the toilet’s fill valve. Turn on the water supply and check for leaks. If there are any leaks, tighten the fitting until the leaks stop.
Installing the Toilet Seat
When installing the toilet seat, first align the bolt holes on the seat with the holes on the toilet bowl. Then, insert the bolts through the holes and secure them with washers and nuts. Tighten the bolts until the seat is firmly in place, but do not overtighten them.
To prevent the seat from shifting, you can apply a thin bead of clear silicone caulk around the base of the seat where it meets the toilet bowl. Smooth the caulk with your finger and allow it to dry completely before using the toilet.
Lubricating the Toilet Seat Bolts
If you find that the toilet seat bolts are difficult to tighten, you can lubricate them with a small amount of petroleum jelly or WD-40. This will help to reduce friction and make it easier to tighten the bolts.
Using a Toilet Seat Stabilizer
If you have a toilet seat that tends to wobble or shift, you can install a toilet seat stabilizer. This is a small device that fits under the front of the toilet seat and helps to keep it in place. Toilet seat stabilizers are available at most hardware stores.
| Type of Toilet Seat | Installation Method |
|---|---|
| Round Toilet Seat | Align the bolts with the holes on the toilet bowl and tighten with nuts and washers. |
| Elongated Toilet Seat | Align the bolts with the elongated holes on the toilet bowl and tighten with nuts and washers. |
| Soft Close Toilet Seat | Align the bolts with the holes on the toilet bowl and tighten with nuts and washers. The soft close mechanism will prevent the seat from slamming shut. |
Connecting the Water Supply Line
To initiate the water supply line connection, gather the following tools: adjustable wrench, sealant tape, and a flexible water supply line. Ensure that the water supply valve is turned off before proceeding.
Firstly, identify the water supply inlet at the base of the toilet bowl. Apply sealant tape clockwise onto the threads of the inlet, ensuring that it wraps evenly and without gaps.
Next, manually tighten the flexible water supply line onto the inlet, ensuring a secure connection. Utilize the adjustable wrench to further tighten the connection, but avoid applying excessive force that may damage the components.
After securing the connection between the inlet and the water supply line, turn on the water supply valve gradually. Inspect the area for any leaks, and promptly tighten any loose connections as necessary.
Tips for a Secure Water Supply Connection:
| Step | Essential Details |
|---|---|
| 1 | Thoroughly wrap sealant tape around the inlet threads. |
| 2 | Hand-tighten the water supply line before using an adjustable wrench. |
| 3 | Tighten the connections securely, but avoid overtightening. |
| 4 | Inspect the area for leaks and promptly address any detected issues. |
Installing the Drain Line
The drain line connects the RV toilet to the campground’s sewer system. It’s a crucial component that ensures the proper disposal of waste. Installing the drain line involves several steps:
1. Determine the Location
Locate the drain outlet on the RV’s undercarriage. Measure the distance from the toilet flange to the outlet.
2. Cut the Drain Pipe
Cut a length of PVC drain pipe to the measured length. Use a hacksaw or pipe cutter for a clean cut.
3. Connect to the Toilet Flange
Apply a bead of silicone sealant to the flange of the toilet. Push the drain pipe onto the flange until it connects securely.
4. Mount the Pipe Support
Install pipe support brackets along the length of the drain line to prevent sagging. Space them evenly and secure them with screws.
5. Connect to the Sewer Outlet
Slide the end of the drain pipe into the sewer outlet. Use a rubber gasket or adapter to ensure a watertight seal.
6. Install the Bayonet Fitting
If your RV has a bayonet fitting, attach it to the end of the drain pipe. This fitting allows for easy sewer connection and disconnection.
7. Secure the Bayonet Fitting
Use a bayonet cap to secure the bayonet fitting to the campground’s sewer pipe. Rotate the cap clockwise until it tightens.
8. Test for Leaks
Flush the toilet several times to test for leaks. Check the connections for any signs of water seepage. Repair any leaks with silicone sealant or pipe clamps as needed.
| Component | Description |
|—|—|
| PVC Drain Pipe | Carries waste from the toilet to the sewer outlet |
| Pipe Support Brackets | Prevents sagging and supports the drain line |
| Rubber Gasket | Creates a watertight seal between the drain pipe and sewer outlet |
| Bayonet Fitting | Allows for easy connection and disconnection of the sewer pipe |
| Bayonet Cap | Secures the bayonet fitting to the campground’s sewer pipe |
Sealing and Finishing Touches
9. Finishing Touches
- Install the Toilet Seat: Align the seat with the holes in the toilet bowl and fasten it securely with bolts or nuts.
- Check for Leaks: Turn on the water supply and flush the toilet several times to check for leaks around the base, seals, or connections. Tighten any loose bolts or fittings as needed.
- Clean the Area: Wipe down the toilet and surrounding area with a damp cloth to remove any debris or excess sealant.
- Install the Toilet Paper Holder and Other Accessories: Attach the toilet paper holder and any other accessories, such as a towel bar or soap dish, according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
1. Water Leaks from the Base of the Toilet
A common issue is water leaking from the base of the toilet. This could be due to a cracked bowl or a loose seal. To fix a cracked bowl, you will need to replace the entire toilet. To fix a loose seal, you will need to tighten the bolts that hold the toilet to the floor and replace the wax ring.
2. Toilet Flushes Weakly
If your toilet flushes weakly, it could be due to a clogged drain line or a faulty flapper valve. To fix a clogged drain line, you will need to use a drain snake or auger to clear the blockage. To fix a faulty flapper valve, you will need to replace the valve.
3. Toilet Runs Constantly
If your toilet runs constantly, it could be due to a faulty fill valve or a leaking flapper valve. To fix a faulty fill valve, you will need to replace the valve. To fix a leaking flapper valve, you will need to adjust the valve or replace it if necessary.
4. Toilet Rocks When You Sit on It
If your toilet rocks when you sit on it, it could be due to a loose toilet flange or a cracked floor. To fix a loose toilet flange, you will need to tighten the bolts that hold the flange to the floor. To fix a cracked floor, you will need to repair or replace the floor.
5. Toilet Bowl Discolors
If your toilet bowl discolors, it could be due to hard water deposits or mineral buildup. To clean hard water deposits, you can use a commercial cleaner or a homemade solution of vinegar and baking soda. To clean mineral buildup, you can use a commercial cleaner or a homemade solution of muriatic acid and water.
6. Toilet Seat Loose
If your toilet seat is loose, you can tighten the bolts that hold the seat to the toilet bowl. If the bolts are stripped, you will need to replace the bolts.
7. Toilet Paper Holder Broken
If your toilet paper holder is broken, you can replace the holder with a new one. You can find replacement toilet paper holders at most hardware stores.
8. Toilet Handle Broken
If your toilet handle is broken, you can replace the handle with a new one. You can find replacement toilet handles at most hardware stores.
9. Toilet Flush Valve Leaking
If your toilet flush valve is leaking, you can replace the flush valve with a new one. You can find replacement toilet flush valves at most hardware stores.
10. Toilet Not Flushing Properly
If your toilet is not flushing properly, it could be due to a variety of issues, including a clogged drain line, a faulty flapper valve, or a faulty fill valve. To troubleshoot this issue, you can try the following steps:
- Check the drain line for clogs. If the drain line is clogged, you can use a drain snake or auger to clear the blockage.
- Check the flapper valve for damage. If the flapper valve is damaged, you will need to replace it.
- Check the fill valve for damage. If the fill valve is damaged, you will need to replace it.
| Issue | Solution |
|---|---|
| Water leaks from the base of the toilet | Replace the wax ring or tighten the toilet bolts |
| Toilet flushes weakly | Clean the drain line or replace the flapper valve |
| Toilet runs constantly | Replace the fill valve or adjust the flapper valve |
| Toilet rocks when you sit on it | Tighten the toilet flange bolts or repair the floor |
| Toilet bowl discolors | Clean with a commercial cleaner or a homemade solution |
How to Install an RV Toilet
Installing an RV toilet is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can easily install a new toilet in your RV.
- Gather your materials. You will need the following materials to install an RV toilet:
- A new RV toilet
- A toilet flange
- Toilet wax
- A sealant
- A wrench
- A screwdriver
- A level
- Turn off the water supply. Before you begin, turn off the water supply to the RV. This will prevent any water from leaking out while you are working.
- Remove the old toilet. Use a wrench to disconnect the water supply line from the old toilet. Then, use a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the toilet to the floor. Carefully lift the old toilet off the floor and set it aside.
- Install the toilet flange. If there is not already a toilet flange installed, you will need to install one. A toilet flange is a ring that is used to secure the toilet to the floor. To install a toilet flange, place it over the drain hole in the floor and secure it with screws.
- Apply toilet wax to the toilet flange. Toilet wax is a sealant that helps to create a watertight seal between the toilet and the toilet flange. To apply toilet wax, simply roll out a rope of wax around the base of the toilet. Press the toilet down onto the toilet flange, making sure that the wax is evenly distributed.
- Connect the water supply line. Use a wrench to connect the water supply line to the toilet. Make sure that the connection is tight.
- Level the toilet. Use a level to check if the toilet is level. If the toilet is not level, use a shim to level it out.
- Secure the toilet to the floor. Use screws to secure the toilet to the floor. Make sure that the screws are tight.
- Turn on the water supply. Turn on the water supply to the RV and check for any leaks.
People Also Ask
How do you replace the wax ring on an RV toilet?
To replace the wax ring on an RV toilet, you will need to first purchase a new wax ring and remove the old toilet. Once the old toilet is removed, apply a new wax ring to the toilet flange. Then, place the toilet over the wax ring and make sure that the wax is evenly distributed. Press the toilet down onto the toilet flange and secure it with screws.
How do you remove a stuck RV toilet?
If your RV toilet is stuck, you can try to remove it by using a rocking motion. To do this, place your hands on the sides of the toilet bowl and rock it back and forth. This will help to break the seal between the toilet and the toilet flange. Once the seal is broken, you should be able to lift the toilet up and off of the toilet flange.
How do you flush an RV toilet?
To flush an RV toilet, simply press the flush lever. The flush lever is usually located on the top of the toilet tank. When you press the flush lever, water will be released from the tank and into the toilet bowl. The water will help to flush the waste down the drain.
