Your sink drain is a key component that keeps your plumbing system running smoothly. Replace it properly and you can avoid clogs and water damage.
Clear the area underneath your sink and set stored objects aside. Make sure the continuous waste pipe and trap arm slope slightly downward. Click the Sink Drain Replacement Clmsted Falls to know more.
Grab a tape measure and locate the height of your sink drain’s P-trap. You’ll need this measurement to find a compatible sink drain.
Pop-up drains, which are often found in bathroom sinks and tubs, operate on a rod that can be pulled up and down to open and close your sink’s drain stopper. Sometimes, the part that connects this rod to the stopper can break down or become dirty and won’t allow you to raise or lower the drain. Replacing this component is an easy do-it-yourself project that can save you money and time by not having to call a plumber.
Before attempting to fix your pop-up assembly, make sure to shut off the water supply valve and place a bucket underneath the sink. You may also want to remove the P-trap beneath your sink to prevent any leaks from leaking out onto the floor while you work. Next, use a flathead screwdriver or knife blade to pry up the actuating rod. Once you’ve removed the actuating rod, remove the stopper and set it aside. Make sure that you clean off the new seal ball and pivot rod before attaching them to your new assembly. Make sure to match the size of the rod with the correct seal ball in your repair kit.
When you have the new components ready, it’s time to replace your old drain. Begin by unscrewing the bottom cap from your drain cover and lifting it up, taking care not to lose the washer inside. Next, remove the gasket from the bottom of the cover and use a knife or screwdriver to cut through any corrosion that may be stuck to it. After removing the gasket, you can screw on the new cover, then screw in your pop-up assembly.
Whether your pop-up assembly has stopped working or you simply need to replace the seal, PlumbersStock has all of the lavatory drain parts that you need to get it back up and running. We offer high-quality products from Moen, Delta, Brizo and more. Shop our wide selection and enjoy a discounted price when you shop online with us.
Drains with overflow openings
A drain with an overflow opening prevents the sink from filling up and flooding your bathroom if you accidentally close the sink or leave it running while you’re away. It also allows you to drain your sink faster, as the additional opening lets air into the pipes and prevents a suction effect that slows down drainage. These types of drains are common for vessel sinks, although they can be used with conventional under-mounted sinks too.
You can choose from a variety of materials and finishes to match your sink or faucet. Brass is one of the most popular choices, but you can also find drains in stainless steel or bronze. Some even have a decorative design that enhances the look of your bathroom.
To install a pop-up drain, remove the current drain and P-trap from the pipework. Next, clean the area around the drain opening and place a bucket underneath to catch the overflow water. You’ll need a few tools to make this job easier, including pliers, a wrench, and a pair of snips for cutting wire. Make sure you clear out a large enough space under the sink to fit your toolkit and allow yourself plenty of time to work without interruption.
If you’re working with a metal sink, use the snips to cut off any excess pipework that extends past the drain opening. After that, remove the screw and vertical strap from the sink’s tailpiece and unscrew the nut at the bottom of the pivot rod. You can use a small amount of plumber’s putty (or silicone caulk) to help the tailpiece and plug seal against the sink’s counter.
Insert the new drain assembly into the tailpiece, ensuring the linkage hole is facing toward the back of the sink. Then, push the plastic stopper linkage into the tailpiece until you hear and feel it click inside. You can use the pliers to grip and twist it into place.
Finally, reconnect the drain pipe by pushing the P-trap arm up through the opening under the sink and then fitting the drain ring onto the trap arm. Make sure you don’t cross-thread it and tighten the nut by hand to avoid over-tightening it and breaking the pipework.
Drains with press and seal
The type of drain you choose depends on the style of sink and whether you have a garbage disposal or not. In general, you want to make sure the drain is compatible with your sink and that it can handle the amount of water you’ll be using. You’ll also need to know the size of your sink, including the overflow opening, so you can select the right drain. If you’re unsure of the size, measure your sink across its widest part, and then again at its deepest point (most drains slope inward). You can also use these measurements to help decide whether or not you want to add a basket strainer.
If you have a garbage disposal, your sink may need to be fitted with a special drain that has an overflow opening or is compatible with it. In addition, you should be sure to purchase a basket strainer for your drain to keep food and other debris from falling into the overflow port.
A sink with a built-in stopper is convenient because it allows you to open and close the drain with a single push of the lever or button located behind the sink faucet. However, the build-in stopper can become clogged with residue from soap, grease and other debris. If the drain stops working completely, you may need to replace the lift rod that controls the function of the stopper.
Underneath the drain, there’s a U-shaped pipe called a trap that’s designed to hold water, creating a seal that prevents sewer gases from entering your home through the sink drain. The trap also helps trap small objects that might fall into the sink, preventing them from traveling up into the main plumbing system. If the trap becomes clogged or doesn’t seal properly, you can experience odors in your bathroom that can be difficult to remove.
Before replacing the sink drain, it’s important to thoroughly clean the sink and drain area of any debris and old plumber’s putty. Next, loosen the compression nut holding the drain tailpiece in place with water pump pliers. You can then unscrew the drain tailpiece and drain flange. Finally, apply a generous bead of silicone caulk to the top of the flange. Allow the silicone to dry according to product instructions.
