Changing your bathroom sink drain is a simple and rewarding DIY project that can help improve the functionality and aesthetics of your bathroom. Over time, sink drains can become clogged, leak, or simply look outdated. By learning how to change your bathroom sink drain, you can save money on professional plumbers and give your bathroom a fresh new look.
Step 1: Gather the necessary tools and materials. Before you begin, make sure you have all the tools and materials you’ll need for the project. This may include a wrench, plumber’s putty, a new drain assembly, and a bucket or towel to catch any water that may spill during the process.
Step 2: Prepare the sink. Next, you’ll need to clear out the area underneath the sink. Remove any items stored there, and place a bucket or towel underneath to catch any water that may come out when you disconnect the old drain. It’s always a good idea to turn off the water supply to the sink before starting any plumbing project.
Step 3: Disconnect the old drain. Use a wrench to loosen the nuts that connect the drain pipe to the sink. Once the nuts are loose, you can disconnect the drain and remove it from the sink. Be prepared for some water to spill out during this step, so ensure your bucket or towel is in a good position to catch it.
With these initial steps complete, you can now proceed to install the new drain assembly. Stay tuned for part two of our guide on how to change your bathroom sink drain!
Tools You Will Need
Before you start changing your bathroom sink drain, make sure you have the right tools for the job. Here are the essential tools you will need:
- Adjustable wrench: This tool will help you loosen and tighten the plastic nuts that connect the drain to the sink.
- Slip joint pliers: These pliers are useful for gripping and turning pipes when removing or installing the drain.
- Bucket or container: It’s always a good idea to have a bucket or container ready to catch any water that may spill out during the process.
- Plumber’s putty or silicone caulk: You’ll need this to create a watertight seal between the sink and the drain.
- Screwdriver: You may need a screwdriver to remove any screws that hold the old drain in place.
- Plumber’s tape: This tape helps create a tight seal between the drain components.
- Clean cloth or sponge: Keep a cloth or sponge handy for cleaning up any spills or messes.
Having these tools prepared before you begin will ensure a smoother and more efficient process when changing your bathroom sink drain.
Removing the Old Drain
Before starting the process of removing the old drain from your bathroom sink, it is important to gather all the necessary tools and materials. You will need a pipe wrench, a bucket, a putty knife, and plumber’s putty for the installation of the new drain.
First, place the bucket under the sink to catch any water or debris that may come out during the process. Use the pipe wrench to loosen the slip nuts connecting the drain pipe to the bottom of the sink. Be cautious and gentle to avoid damaging the pipes.
Once the slip nuts are loosened, carefully remove the drain pipe by twisting it counterclockwise. If the drain is stuck, you may need to use some force. Place the drain on a towel or in the bucket to prevent any drips or spills.
Next, use a putty knife to gently scrape off any old plumber’s putty or caulk from the sink’s surface and the bottom of the drain hole. Make sure to clean the area thoroughly to ensure a proper seal with the new drain.
Inspect the drain hole and the surrounding area for any signs of damage or corrosion. If necessary, use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove any stubborn debris or buildup.
Once the drain hole is clean and free of any old residue, you are now ready to install the new drain. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for your specific drain model for the installation process.
Note: If you encounter any difficulties or are unsure of the process, it is recommended to contact a professional plumber for assistance.
Purchasing a New Drain
When purchasing a new drain for your bathroom sink, there are a few factors to consider to ensure you make the right choice. Here are some important things to keep in mind:
| Material: | Drains are typically made of metal, such as brass or stainless steel. Consider the durability and appearance of different materials and choose one that fits your preference. |
| Type of drain: | There are different types of drains available, including pop-up drains, grid drains, and push-button drains. Each type has its own functionality and aesthetics, so select one that suits your needs. |
| Size: | Measure the diameter of your current drain to ensure you purchase a new one with the correct size. Most bathroom sink drains are 1 1/4 inches in diameter, but it’s always a good idea to double-check. |
| Compatibility: | Make sure the new drain you choose is compatible with your bathroom sink. Check if it’s designed for the type of sink you have, whether it’s a pedestal sink, wall-mounted sink, or vanity sink. |
| Additional features: | Some drains come with additional features like overflow prevention or built-in strainers. Consider if these features are important to you and if they will enhance the functionality of your bathroom sink. |
Once you have considered these factors, you can make an informed decision and purchase a new drain that will fit perfectly and meet your requirements.
Preparing the Sink for Installation
Before you can install a new bathroom sink drain, you need to prepare the sink by removing the old drain and cleaning the area. Here are the steps to follow:
| Step 1 | Turn off the water supply to the sink by shutting off the valves under the sink. |
| Step 2 | Place a bucket under the sink to catch any water that may be left in the pipes. |
| Step 3 | Using a pipe wrench, unscrew the nuts that connect the P-trap to the drain assembly. |
| Step 4 | Once the nuts are loosened, remove the P-trap and empty any water into the bucket. |
| Step 5 | With a pair of pliers, loosen and remove the nut that secures the drain flange to the sink. |
| Step 6 | Pull out the drain flange from the sink. |
| Step 7 | Clean the area around the drain hole in the sink using a mild cleaning solution and a cloth. |
| Step 8 | Inspect the area to ensure there are no cracks or damage to the sink. |
Once you have completed these steps, the sink is now prepared for the installation of the new drain assembly.
Installing the New Drain
Once you have removed the old drain from your bathroom sink, it is time to install the new one. Follow these steps to properly install the new drain:
| Step | Description |
| 1 | Apply plumber’s putty to the underside of the flange around the drain hole in the sink. Make sure to create a proper seal. |
| 2 | Insert the new drain into the drain hole and press it down firmly to ensure a tight fit. |
| 3 | From under the sink, screw the mounting nut onto the drain body until it is snug against the bottom of the sink. |
| 4 | If your new drain has a pop-up mechanism, attach the horizontal rod to the clevis strap using the provided clip or linkage assembly. |
| 5 | Connect the pivot rod to the horizontal rod by inserting it through the loop on the clevis strap and securing it with the provided nut. |
| 6 | Test the drain by running water into the sink. Check for any leaks and make any necessary adjustments. |
| 7 | Tighten any loose connections and reassemble any components you may have removed during the installation process. |
| 8 | Finish the installation by sealing the flange and sink with silicone caulk to prevent water from seeping beneath the sink. |
Once you have completed these steps, your new drain should be properly installed and ready to use. Enjoy your new bathroom sink!
Testing and Finishing Up
After you have successfully installed the new drain, it’s important to test it to ensure that it is working properly and that there are no leaks. Fill up the sink with water and let it drain. Check underneath the sink for any signs of water leakage. If you notice any leaks, you may need to re-tighten the connections or consider replacing any faulty parts.
Once you have confirmed that there are no leaks, it’s time to finish up the installation. Clean up any tools or materials that you may have used during the process. Wipe down the sink and surrounding area to remove any dirt or debris. Remember to dispose of the old drain properly, following your local regulations.
Finally, take a moment to admire your handiwork and enjoy your newly installed bathroom sink drain. Knowing how to change a bathroom sink drain is a valuable skill that can save you time and money in the future. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional plumber for assistance.
| Materials | Tools |
|---|---|
| – New drain | – Pipe wrench |
| – Plumber’s putty | – Adjustable pliers |
| – Teflon tape | – Screwdriver |
| – Bucket | – Bucket |
| – Rags | – Rags |
