## How to Change the Kitchen Sink Trap
The sink trap is a U-shaped pipe that connects the sink drain to the drainpipe. It is designed to trap water and prevent sewer gases from entering the home. Over time, the trap can become clogged with hair, soap scum, and other debris, which can lead to slow drainage or even a complete blockage. If you are experiencing problems with your kitchen sink drain, changing the trap is a relatively simple and inexpensive repair that you can do yourself.
### Tools and Materials You Will Need
* Adjustable wrench
* Bucket
* Plumber’s putty
* New sink trap
* Teflon tape
### Step-by-Step Instructions
**1. Turn off the water supply.** The first step is to turn off the water supply to the sink. This is usually done by turning off the valves under the sink. If you are unsure of which valves to turn off, you can turn off the main water supply to the house.
**2. Place a bucket under the trap.** This will catch any water that spills out when you disconnect the trap.
**3. Loosen the nuts on the trap.** There are two nuts that hold the trap in place. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen these nuts, but do not remove them completely.
**4. Remove the old trap.** Once the nuts are loose, you can remove the old trap by pulling it straight down. Be careful not to spill any water from the trap.
**5. Clean the drainpipe.** Once the old trap is removed, you can clean the drainpipe. Use a rag or a brush to remove any debris from the pipe.
**6. Apply plumber’s putty to the new trap.** Apply a ring of plumber’s putty around the base of the new trap. This will help to create a watertight seal between the trap and the drainpipe.
**7. Install the new trap.** Insert the new trap into the drainpipe. Make sure that the plumber’s putty is touching the pipe all the way around.
**8. Tighten the nuts.** Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the nuts on the trap. Do not overtighten the nuts, as this can damage the trap.
**9. Turn on the water supply.** Once the new trap is installed, turn on the water supply to the sink. Check for leaks around the trap. If there are any leaks, tighten the nuts further.
**10. Test the drain.** Run water into the sink and check to make sure that the drain is working properly.
### Troubleshooting
If you are having trouble changing the kitchen sink trap, here are a few troubleshooting tips:
* If the nuts on the trap are too tight to loosen, you can try using a penetrating oil. Apply the penetrating oil to the nuts and let it sit for a few minutes. This will help to loosen the nuts.
* If the old trap is stuck in the drainpipe, you can try using a hammer to gently tap it loose. Be careful not to damage the drainpipe.
* If you are unable to remove the old trap, you may need to call a plumber.
### Conclusion
Changing the kitchen sink trap is a relatively simple and inexpensive repair that you can do yourself. By following the steps in this article, you can easily replace the old trap and get your sink draining properly again.