Wax vs rubber rings - the pros and cons

As a seasoned plumber with years of experience under my belt, there's one thing I've learned for certain – the importance of a proper seal when setting a new toilet. It's not just about functionality; it's about ensuring that homeowners don't face unpleasant surprises like sewer gas leaks or persistent odors. That's why I've always been curious about the different types of sealing rings available on the market and how they measure up in real-world scenarios.

Recently, I had the opportunity to test various sealing rings under pressure to determine their effectiveness, and as someone who takes pride in delivering quality service, I was eager to see the results firsthand.

The experiment involved a custom-built contraption—a clear acrylic assembly affixed with different types of sealing rings, subjected to pressure to simulate real-world conditions. The goal was simple: find out which sealing ring could withstand the pressure and provide a reliable seal.

First up was the traditional ball wax, a favorite among old-school plumbers like myself. As expected, it held up reasonably well under pressure, reaching around 25-30 pounds per square inch (PSI) before giving way. It's a testament to the durability of wax rings, which have stood the test of time in the plumbing industry.

Next, we tried an extra-thick wax ring, designed to provide added stability and sealing power. While it initially seemed promising, it too succumbed to the pressure, indicating that even the thickest wax rings have their limitations.

Then came the "better than wax" sealing ring, which boasted of being wax-free and easier to install. However, despite its claims, it failed to hold pressure effectively, highlighting potential drawbacks that may outweigh the convenience of wax-free installation.

Finally, we tested a universal wax-free sealing ring, touted as the easiest way to set a toilet. Unfortunately, it failed to live up to expectations, with the rubber seal failing to hold pressure, ultimately leading to leaks.

Reflecting on the experiment, it became evident that while alternative sealing rings offer convenience and ease of use, they often fall short in terms of reliability and durability. Wax rings, despite their messy cleanup, remain the go-to choice for many plumbers due to their proven track record.

As the video came to a close, I couldn't help but wonder about the experiences of fellow plumbers and homeowners who had tried these alternative sealing rings. Did they encounter similar challenges, or did they find success where others had failed?

If you're a plumber or a homeowner who has dealt with toilet installations, I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences. Feel free to share your insights in the YouTube comments.

And to my fellow plumbers out there looking to enhance your skills and services, I highly recommend checking out Leak Pro for valuable training and equipment that can help you better serve your customers.

Remember, a reliable seal is the foundation of a well-functioning toilet, so choose wisely when selecting your sealing ring. Your customers—and their noses—will thank you for it.