How to Take Bathroom Sink Drain Out

Whether you are renovating your bathroom or need to fix a clogged drain, knowing how to remove the bathroom sink drain can be a helpful skill. Removing a bathroom sink drain may seem daunting, but it can be a relatively simple process with the right tools and knowledge. In this article, we will provide you with a step-by-step guide on removing a bathroom sink drain, ensuring you can easily tackle this DIY project.

Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials

To begin, gather the necessary tools and materials for the task. These may include:

• Adjustable pliers
• Pipe wrench
• Screwdriver (Phillips or flathead, depending on the type of screws used)
• Bucket or container
• Towels or rags
• Plumbers putty (to seal the drain when reinstalling)

Having these tools ready will ensure that you have everything you need at hand, making the process smoother and more efficient.

Turn Off the Water Supply

Before starting any plumbing project, it is essential to turn off the water supply to avoid any potential leaks or accidents. Locate the shut-off valves under the bathroom sink and twist them clockwise to shut off the water. In case you cannot find the shut-off valves, you may need to turn off the main water supply to your house.

Remove the P-Trap

The P-trap is the curved pipe under the sink, which prevents odours from entering your bathroom. Place a bucket or container underneath the P-trap to catch any water or debris. Then, use the adjustable pliers or pipe wrenches to loosen the nuts on both ends of the P-trap. Once the nuts are loose, carefully remove the P-trap and empty the contents into the bucket.

Disconnect the Drain Pipe

With the P-trap removed, you can disconnect the drain pipe connecting the sink drain to the wall. Use the adjustable pliers or pipe wrench to loosen the nuts on both ends of the drain pipe. Carefully detach the drain pipe from the sink and the wall, placing any remaining water or debris into the bucket.

Remove the Drain Stopper

The drain stopper is the mechanism that allows you to stop or release the water flow in the sink. Depending on your drain stopper type, there are different ways to remove it.

Push-and-Pull Drain Stopper

Remove the drain stopper assembly from the sink for a push-and-pull drain stopper by turning it counterclockwise. Once removed, you can detach the stopper from the assembly by unscrewing it or pulling it out, depending on the design.

Pop-Up Drain Stopper

You will need to access the drain plug at the bottom of the sink for a pop-up drain stopper. Beneath the sink, locate the rod connected to the drain plug and unscrew the nut securing it. Once the nut is loose, carefully pull out the rod and disconnect it from the drain plug. You can easily lift the drain plug from the sink with the rod removed.

Loosen the Sink Drain Locknut

With the drain stopper removed, you can now focus on loosening the sink drain locknut. Use the adjustable pliers or pipe wrench to loosen the locknut underneath the sink. Turn the locknut counterclockwise until it is loose enough to remove by hand.

Remove the Sink Drain Flange

Once the locknut is removed, you can remove the sink drain flange. To do this, push up on the bottom of the sink drain flange from under the sink while simultaneously pulling down on the top of the flange from above the sink. This motion will detach the flange from the sink, allowing you to remove it altogether.

Clean and Inspect the Drain Components

Now that the sink drain is removed, take the opportunity to clean and inspect the drain components. Remove any debris or build-up, ensuring that the drain is free from blockages. Additionally, inspect the drain pipes and seals for any signs of damage or wear. If necessary, replace any faulty components before reinstalling the drain.

Reinstall the Sink Drain

You can reinstall the sink drain after cleaning and inspecting the drain components. Apply the plumber’s putty around the underside of the sink drain flange to create a watertight seal between the sink and the drain. Insert the flange back into the sink and position it correctly. From underneath the sink, thread the locknut back onto the drain flange and tighten it with the adjustable pliers or pipe wrench.

Reattach the Drain Pipe and P-Trap

With the sink drain successfully reinstalled, it is time to reconnect the drain pipe and P-trap. Slide the drain pipe back into the wall opening and tighten the nut to secure it. Next, attach the other end of the drain pipe to the sink drain flange and tighten the nut. Finally, reinstall the P-trap by tightening the nuts on both ends.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I remove a bathroom sink drain without any special tools?

Yes, you can remove a bathroom sink drain without any special tools. However, adjusting pliers and a pipe wrench can make the process easier and more efficient.

How often should I clean my bathroom sink drain?

It is recommended to clean your bathroom sink drain at least once every month to prevent clogs and maintain proper drainage.

Should I use any lubricant when removing the sink drain flange?

Applying some lubricant, such as WD-40, to the sink drain flange can help loosen any stuck or stubborn parts, making the removal process smoother.

Can I reuse the same rubber gasket when reinstalling the sink drain?

Replacing the rubber gasket when reinstalling the sink drain is generally recommended to ensure a proper seal and prevent leaks.

What should I do if I encounter difficulties while removing the sink drain?

If you encounter any difficulties while removing the sink drain, it is best to consult a professional plumber to avoid causing further damage or complications.

Conclusion

Removing a bathroom sink drain may seem daunting, but it can be easily accomplished with the right tools and knowledge. Following the step-by-step guide in this article, you can successfully remove a bathroom sink drain and tackle any necessary repairs or upgrades.