Are you thinking of replacing your old toilet with something more modern and sleek? The Mondella Concerto installation might sound like a plumber-only job, but the truth is, it’s totally doable if you’re handy with a wrench and have a little patience. If you’re someone who enjoys a bit of DIY or just wants to save some money, this guide will walk you through everything, step by step. By the time you finish reading the first few paragraphs, you’ll already have most of the answers you came looking for. So let’s dive in.
Tools You’ll Need Before You Start
Here’s a quick checklist before we begin:
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdrivers (both types)
- Plumber’s tape
- A new wax ring
- Putty knife
- Old towels or rags
- Measuring tape
- Disposable gloves
- Level (spirit level or app-based)
- Drill (if wall fixings are needed)
Set everything within reach so you don’t want to be searching for a screwdriver mid-install.
Step 1: Out With the Old
First things first: shut off the water supply. Turn the valve near the base of the toilet clockwise. Then, flush to empty the cistern. Whatever water remains, scoop it out with a small cup or use a sponge.
Next, unscrew the bolts that hold your current toilet to the floor. Rock it gently to break the seal, then lift it off. Yes, it’s heavy, so feel free to ask someone for help. Place it aside on an old towel so you don’t scratch the floor.
Now comes the not-so-glamorous part and that is removing the old wax ring. Grab your putty knife and scrape it off the flange (the pipe opening on the floor). This part is key for a clean start, especially when following any Mondella concerto toilet installation instructions.
Step 2: Get the New Toilet Ready
You’re halfway there already. Take the new wax ring and press it onto the outlet underneath your Mondella Concerto bowl. Some people prefer placing it right on the flange; either works as long as you align it properly.
Lower the bowl gently over the flange bolts. Apply even pressure to compress the wax ring and seal the connection. If the toilet rocks a bit, don’t worry. That just means your floor’s a bit uneven. Use plastic shims to level it out before tightening anything down.
Step 3: Secure the Bowl
Once the bowl’s aligned, slip the washers and nuts onto the floor bolts and tighten them with your wrench. Go slow here; if it is too tight, you risk cracking the porcelain. Just enough to keep it steady.
Now it’s a good time to move on to the seat. The Mondella toilet seat installation is pretty straightforward. Most models come with a quick-release seat and simple hinges. Line them up, screw them in, and you’re set.
Step 4: Cistern Time
Grab the cistern and place the rubber gasket on its base. This helps create a watertight seal between the cistern and the bowl. Carefully lower the cistern onto the back of the toilet, making sure the bolts line up.
Tighten the bolts from underneath, one side at a time, to keep the pressure even. Connect the flush mechanism chain (or button arm, depending on the model). Almost there!
Now, reattach the water inlet hose and turn the valve back on. Keep an eye on the base and behind the cistern as water fills up, so if anything leaks, you’ll want to catch it right away.
Step 5: Final Checks
Flush a few times. Listen, look, and feel. Is the flush strong? Is water leaking around the base? If yes, you may need to reseat the wax ring.
Take your level and check that everything’s straight. Adjust shims if needed. Tighten your seat and make sure nothing wiggles. This part’s worth doing right because you don’t want to come back and fix things later.
Quick Reference Chart
| Step | Time Needed | Tools Used | Watch Out For |
| Remove old toilet | 20–30 mins | Wrench, sponge, towel | Water left in the tank/bowl |
| Scrape flange clean | 10 mins | Putty knife, gloves | Old wax not fully removed |
| Place & level new bowl | 15 mins | Wax ring, wrench | Rocking toilet |
| Attach cistern | 20 mins | Bolts, gasket, wrench | Uneven pressure or leaks |
| Connect seat & water line | 15 mins | Screwdriver, wrench | Loose seat or slow-fill |
Helpful Tips for First-Timers
- Do a dry fit. Lower the toilet without the wax ring first to test alignment.
- Wrap threads with the lumber’s tape. This avoids drips from the water hose connection.
- Use a second person. Even just for steadying the bowl as you align it.
- Take your time. Rushing might cause cracks or misalignment.
Getting Comfortable with Bathroom Plumbing
You don’t need to be an expert in bathroom plumbing to install a toilet. Most modern homes use similar fittings, and the Mondella Concerto works well with standard outlets. The biggest thing is making sure the wax ring seals tight and your connections are secure.
If anything feels off like the flush is weak or there’s a strange sound, don’t panic. It’s usually something minor like a chain being too tight or the fill valve needing a tweak.
Common DIY Mistakes & How to Avoid Them
| Mistake | What Happens | Fix/Prevention |
| Reusing the old wax ring | Leaks and smells | Always use a new one |
| Over-tightening bolts | Cracked porcelain | Hand-tight plus a quarter-turn |
| Skipping the level check | Uneven seating | Use a level before the initial tightening |
| Forgetting to test the flush | Surprises later | Always flush a few times before done |
| Not sealing the inlet properly | Slow leaks | Plumber’s tape is your best friend |
So… What Is Toilet Fitting, Really?
To some, toilet fitting sounds like something only a tradesperson should do. But it’s actually about understanding how the pieces fit and work together; bowl, wax ring, bolts, cistern, flush, and seat. It’s not hard once you get going, and the satisfaction of doing it yourself is a real bonus.
And honestly? It’s not just about saving money. It’s about knowing how your own bathroom works. Next time there’s a small leak or noise, you’ll know exactly where to look.
If Things Go Wrong (Don’t Worry)
The toilet is wobbly? Add plastic shims under the base and retighten the bolts.
- Flush not strong enough? Check if the cistern’s fill valve or flush mechanism needs adjusting.
- Water pooling at the base? You may need to reseat the toilet with a new wax ring.
- Tank doesn’t fill? Double-check the inlet valve and hose connection.
Final Thoughts
Installing a toilet doesn’t have to be intimidating. With the right steps and a little patience, the Mondella Concerto toilet can be set up in the afternoon, and it looks great too. This project isn’t just about plumbing; it’s about taking control of your home, one step at a time.
So, if you’re upgrading your bathroom or replacing an old, faulty unit, go ahead and give it a try. You might surprise yourself.