It seems obvious that we need to replace the wax ring that seals our toilet. I’ve never done it before, but I’ve visited a couple of how-to sights that explain the process - it looks fairly straightforward. So first I need to buy a new wax ring.
**Do different toilets need different wax rings, or are they all rings the same? **
I looked on the toilet itself, and I don’t see any brand name on it. (Although something might be on the side of the toilet that is next to the wall, which I can’t currently see). On the inside of the lid, it has the letters MPP KPP on it. I would say it is just a very ordinary style and brand, one that a developer would put in all homes they build.
Can I just go to Home Depot and pick up a new ring off the shelf, or is there more to it than that?
I’ve changed out wax rings several times before. Last time I looked at Home Depot, they had some that were reinforced and some that had extra wax, but they are all the same size and should work on all normal toilets.
There are different sizes and shapes used for some older toilets. The flooring contractor ruined two in my 1987 home and had to call a plumber to get the proper replacement.
They vary by height and width. There are regular and double height ones. The latter is when the toilet sits high the floor for some reason, e.g., a tile job. The drain can also come in 3" and 4" sizes. The 3" is so common that most big box stores will only stock the 3" size. Using a 3" on a 4" drain works. Sort of. (Guess how I know this.)