Replacing a bathroom sink drain is a relatively simple plumbing task that can be completed in a few hours. However, before you begin, it’s important to gather the necessary tools and materials. First, you will need a new drain assembly, which can be purchased at most hardware stores. You will also need a few basic tools, including a wrench, a screwdriver, and a putty knife. Once you have gathered your tools and materials, you can begin the process of replacing the drain.
To start, you will need to remove the old drain assembly. To do this, use a wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the drain assembly in place. Once the nuts are loose, you can use a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the drain assembly to the sink. Once the screws are removed, you can pull the old drain assembly out of the sink. Be careful not to damage the sink as you remove the old drain assembly.
Once you have removed the old drain assembly, you can install the new drain assembly. To do this, first apply a bead of plumber’s putty around the base of the new drain assembly. Then, insert the new drain assembly into the sink and tighten the nuts that hold it in place. Be sure to tighten the nuts securely, but do not overtighten them. Once the nuts are tight, you can use a screwdriver to tighten the screws that hold the drain assembly to the sink. Finally, turn on the water and check for leaks. If there are no leaks, the new drain assembly is installed correctly.
Testing the Drain
If you’re checking for a clog without removing the drain assembly first, there are a couple of ways to test the drain. You can either pour a cup of water down the drain and see if it drains slowly or not at all, or you can use a plunger to try to force the clog out.
If you’re pouring water down the drain, watch the water level in the sink. If the water level rises slowly, it’s likely that there is a clog somewhere in the drain. If the water level doesn’t rise at all, it’s likely that the clog is complete and you’ll need to remove the drain assembly to clear it.
If you’re using a plunger, place the plunger over the drain and push and pull on the handle several times. If the plunger is able to dislodge the clog, you’ll see the water level in the sink drop. If the plunger doesn’t dislodge the clog, you’ll need to remove the drain assembly to clear it.
| Clog Test |
Result |
| Water drains slowly or not at all |
Likely a clog |
| Plunger dislodges clog |
Clog cleared |
| Plunger doesn’t dislodge clog |
Need to remove drain assembly to clear clog |
Preventing Future Clogs
To prevent future clogs, follow these tips:
1. Use a drain strainer: A drain strainer will catch hair and other debris before it can go down the drain and cause a clog.
2. Be careful what you put down the drain: Avoid pouring grease, oils, or coffee grounds down the drain. These substances can build up and cause clogs.
3. Flush the drain regularly: Regular flushing with hot water can help to clear away any buildup and prevent clogs.
4. Use a drain cleaner: If you have a slow-draining sink, you can use a drain cleaner to help to clear the clog. Be sure to follow the directions on the label carefully.
5. Call a plumber: If you have a persistent clog that you cannot clear on your own, you should call a plumber. A plumber can use specialized tools and equipment to clear the clog and prevent future clogs.
Avoid Putting Certain Items Down the Drain
Here is a table of some common items that should not be put down the drain:
| Item |
Reason |
| Hair |
Hair can accumulate and form clogs. |
| Soap scum |
Soap scum can build up and clog drains. |
| Coffee grounds |
Coffee grounds can expand and clog drains. |
| Grease |
Grease can solidify and clog drains. |
| Oil |
Oil can clog drains. |
Safety Precautions
Before starting any plumbing work, it is important to take the following safety precautions:
1. Turn off the water supply to the sink. This can be done by turning off the angle stop valves located under the sink, or by turning off the main water supply to the house.
2. Open the faucet to release any remaining water in the pipes.
3. Place a bucket or towel under the sink to catch any water that may leak out during the repair.
4. Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris.
5. If you are not familiar with plumbing, it is best to hire a licensed plumber to perform the repair.
Disconnect the Drain Pipe
1. Use a wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the drain pipe to the sink drain.
2. Carefully remove the drain pipe from the sink drain.
3. Clean the threads on the drain pipe and the sink drain with a wire brush.
Remove the Old Drain Assembly
1. Use a screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the drain assembly in place.
2. Carefully lift the drain assembly out of the sink.
3. Clean the drain hole in the sink with a wire brush.
Install the New Drain Assembly
1. Place a bead of silicone sealant around the base of the new drain assembly.
2. Carefully insert the drain assembly into the sink hole.
3. Tighten the screws that hold the drain assembly in place.
Reconnect the Drain Pipe
1. Apply a bead of silicone sealant to the threads of the drain pipe.
2. Screw the drain pipe onto the sink drain.
3. Tighten the nuts that hold the drain pipe in place.
Turn on the Water Supply
1. Turn on the water supply to the sink.
2. Check for leaks around the drain assembly and the drain pipe.
3. If there are no leaks, the repair is complete.
How To Replace A Bathroom Sink Drain
Replacing a bathroom sink drain is a relatively simple plumbing repair that can be completed in a few minutes with the right tools and materials. Here are the steps on how to replace a bathroom sink drain:
- Gather your tools and materials. You will need a new drain assembly, a wrench, a screwdriver, and a bucket.
- Turn off the water supply to the sink. This is usually done by turning the handles on the hot and cold water taps clockwise until they stop.
- Place the bucket under the sink to catch any water that may leak out.
- Use the wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the old drain assembly in place. There are usually two nuts, one on each side of the drain.
- Once the nuts are loose, you can unscrew the old drain assembly by hand.
- Clean the mating surfaces of the sink and the new drain assembly with a cloth.
- Apply a bead of plumber’s putty to the rim of the new drain assembly.
- Place the new drain assembly in the sink and tighten the nuts by hand until they are snug.
- Use the wrench to tighten the nuts further, but do not overtighten them.
- Turn on the water supply to the sink and check for leaks.
If there are any leaks, tighten the nuts further until the leaks stop.
People Also Ask About How To Replace A Bathroom Sink Drain
How do I know if my bathroom sink drain needs to be replaced?
There are a few signs that your bathroom sink drain may need to be replaced. These include:
- The drain is leaking.
- The drain is clogged and cannot be unclogged with a plunger or drain cleaner.
- The drain is making a gurgling sound.
- The drain is slow to drain.
How much does it cost to replace a bathroom sink drain?
The cost to replace a bathroom sink drain will vary depending on the type of drain assembly you choose and the labor costs in your area. However, you can expect to pay between $20 and $100 for the parts and labor.
Can I replace a bathroom sink drain myself?
Yes, you can replace a bathroom sink drain yourself if you have the right tools and materials. However, if you are not comfortable working with plumbing, it is best to hire a plumber.
