If you are like most people, you are probably more concerned with your kitchen sink than your bathroom sink. However, bathroom sinks can become clogged or suddenly spring a leak as well. In some cases, you can even fix the drain pipe without having to call a plumber.
The following guide will outline the steps for minor drain repair for bathroom sinks. Of course, if the problem is of a more serious nature, you will need to enlist the help of a professional plumber. Use this guide to help repair the drainage pipe in your bathroom sink.
Drain Pipe Repair: Simple Guide for Homeowners
Tools Needed:
- Bucket
- Clean Cloth
- Flashlight
- Pliers or Wrench
- P-trap
- Paper Towels
- Plumber’s Putty
- PVC piping
- Stiff-bristled brush
How to Fix a Leaky Drain Pipe:
- Point the flashlight at the sink drain pipe. Turn on the water and keep an eye on the pipes to pinpoint the leak. Holding a dry paper towel over each pipe for a few minutes can help find the source of the leak.
- Carefully inspect the problem area to see if there are any loose fittings. If the coupling is tight but there is still a leak, detach the joint after unscrewing the coupling. Use a clean cloth to clean the pipe threads. Replace the fittings and gaskets before putting everything back together.
- Loosen the nut under the basin that secures the sink basket using a wrench. Working from the top, insert pliers or a screwdriver through the cross-piece. Be sure to utilize one of the tools to hold the basin in place while you are working.
- Remove the gasket putty from around the installation areas and use a stiff-bristled brush to scrub the opening. Use hot and soapy water to rinse it off.
- Remove the backing from the sink basket replacement gasket and center it directly over the drain hole. Firmly press it in place and then add the sink basket. Be sure not to damage the seal.
- Installer the new washer (and tighten with a nut) onto the sink basket piece (below the bathroom sink). Add plumber’s putty to seal the threads. Finally, by hand-tightening only, attach the drain connection. Test by running a little warm water.
How to Replace the Sink Drain Pipe
- In preparation, clear the area under the sink and turn off the water. Use a bright light to safely illuminate the area. Underneath the P-trap, a bucket should be placed.
- On the end of the P-trap, loose out the couplings and gently remove them. Carefully lower the assembly while supporting it and then dump the water into the bucket.
- Clean the drain pipe threads using soapy hot water and a stiff-bristle brush. Be sure to clean the pieces that are hanging down from the sink as well as those that are part of the main pipe. Use a clean rag to dry and remove any remaining residue.
- Put together the new P-trap kit. Using the provided instructions, insert the gaskets and washer. Place the trap underneath the sink and secure on the ends by hand-tightening the couplings. Test it by running water through the pipes before removing the bucket.
Contact DrainCom if you need help fixing or replacing your drain pipe. We will send a certified plumber to take care of all your plumbing needs!
