Easy Instructions on How to Install a Sink Drain
While it’s uncommon for the drain assembly in a kitchen or bathroom sink to fail, installing a new drain is often necessary when upgrading or replacing your sink during a renovation. So, do you know how to install a sink drain? It can be a fairly straightforward DIY project for those with some basic plumbing knowledge, and with the right tools, many homeowners can successfully tackle it on their own.
However, there are times when installing a sink drain can get tricky, especially if you’re unfamiliar with plumbing or run into unexpected issues like leaks or misaligned pipes. So, what should you do?
How To Install A Sink Drain
There are two ways to approach this. If you already have a sink drain and only want to replace it, we’ll work from the bottom up. If you’re wanting to install a completely new sink with its own new sink drain, we’ll start the opposite way around. In this how-to, we’ll assume you have a fresh new sink that you’re going to install, complete with sink drain.
Step-by-Step Guide
If you’ve bought a brand-new sink and are wondering how to install the drain, we’ve got you covered! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have your new sink up and running in no time.
Step 1: Install the Drain Flange Start at the top of your sink with the drain flange (the metal ring that sits in the drain hole). Place a small amount of plumber’s putty around the underside of the flange. This will help create a watertight seal. Press the flange firmly into the drain hole in your sink.
Step 2: Secure the Drain Body Now, go underneath the sink. You’ll find the drain body (the part that connects the flange to the plumbing). Thread the drain body up through the drain hole so it connects to the flange on top. Hand-tighten the nut that secures the drain body to the flange. Make sure everything is snug, but don’t over-tighten, as you may damage the components.
Step 3: Attach the Rubber Gasket and Washer Before moving on, slide the rubber gasket and washer onto the drain body from underneath the sink. These help ensure no leaks around the connection. Once in place, tighten the nut on the drain body with a wrench, but be careful not to over-tighten.
Step 4: Install the P-Trap Next, install the P-trap (the curved pipe under the sink that prevents sewer gasses from coming up). Connect the top of the P-trap to the tailpiece (the straight pipe extending from the drain body) using a slip nut. Tighten it securely by hand, then use a wrench for a final quarter-turn.
Step 5: Connect the Drain to Your Plumbing Now, connect the other end of the P-trap to your home’s drain line. Slide the slip nut and washer over the pipe and hand-tighten, making sure everything lines up correctly.
Step 6: Check for Leaks Before you finish, turn on the water and test your new sink drain for leaks. If you see any drips, try tightening the connections gently.
When You Should Call For Professional Help
That’s it! With some patience and these steps, you’ve installed your sink drain. While it might seem simple, sink drain installation can get tricky, especially if you haven’t done it before. A small mistake, like over tightening a connection or misaligning a pipe, can lead to leaks and headaches down the road. And let’s face it—dealing with plumbing can be stressful if you’re unfamiliar with the process.
That’s why it’s often best to leave it to the pros. Local Service Pro Plumbing is here to ensure the job is done right the first time, saving you time, hassle, and potential future repairs. Let our experienced plumbers take care of it for you!
