Do you have to replace flange when replacing a toilet?

Question

I just replaced my toilet. I have a leak somewhere. I don't know if the wax ring is out of place or if I have to replace the flange. Any ideas?

Answer 1

Replace the flange and the wax ring

Answer 2

Unless the flange was actually creacked or loose, it's fine.

Blame it on the wax ring.  that's the leaker 90% of the time.

You can add another for $4.

Answer 3

The wax ring is probably the culprit here. The flange does not have anything to do with leakage usually. Since you replaced the toilet the more likely cause is the wax ring may need to be either an oversized one or two of the smaller ones stacked. There is also a special method and fitting to get a higher wax ring seal. Inquire at the hard ware store.  Did you by any chance tile the room or revinyl? This would affect the height difference the wax ring has to seal. Hope this helps.

Answer 4

The wax ring MUST be replaced when replacing the toilet. Even if you accidently put the toilet on wrong.   We were installing a toilet, put it down wrong, and mashed the wax ring on accident.... had to replace it. It has to be perfect or it wont seal correctly.

But they are cheap, so no worries there!!

Answer 5

If all you did is replace the toilet, then you will need to replace the wax ring.  this should always be done when you replace your toilet.