The new chair-height toilets are nice. Those who want one hesitate because plumbers charge a big per-hour rate.
The installation, however, is not that complicated. You could do it yourself, probably with the instruction included with the unit. Here's the gist of it.
* If there is a water turn-off leading to the toilet, turn it off. If not, turn off the water to the whole house. Flush the toilet a couple of times and remove the rest of the water with a sponge.
* Remove the bolt or two that attach the tank to the toilet. Soak them with WD-40 if they are corroded. Set the old tank aside.
* Remove the closet covers at the base of the toilet and the bolts under them. Then cut the caulk at the base and lift the old toilet out.
* You will see a wax seal. If the new toilet doesn't come with a seal, take the old one to the hardware store so you buy the right one. They are inexpensive.
* Make sure the seal is room temperature and put it in place. Lift the new bowl over the flange nuts in the floor. Set it and move it back and fourth to seat the seal. Make sure it's level.
* Replace the wing nuts at the bottom of the bowl and fill the caps with plumbers putty to keep water out.
Set the tank according to manufacturers' instructions.
*Tighten the wing nuts and reconnect the water supply. Turn on the water and flush the toilet several times to check for leaks.
Recaulk the base of the bowl to create a waterproof seal. It protects the floor and provides additional stability.
