## How to Install Kitchen Sink Drain Parts
Installing kitchen sink drain parts is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can save yourself the cost of hiring a plumber.
### Tools and Materials You’ll Need
* Adjustable wrench
* Phillips head screwdriver
* Flat head screwdriver
* Putty knife
* Plumber’s putty
* Teflon tape
* New drain parts (strainer, flange, tailpiece, trap, and nuts)
* Bucket or bowl
### Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Turn off the water supply.** Before you begin working on the drain, turn off the water supply to the sink. This will prevent water from leaking out while you are working.
2. **Remove the old drain stopper.** Use a Phillips head screwdriver to remove the screws that hold the drain stopper in place. Once the screws are removed, you can lift the stopper out of the sink.
3. **Remove the old drain flange.** Use a flat head screwdriver to pry the old drain flange loose from the sink. Be careful not to damage the sink while doing this.
4. **Clean the sink drain opening.** Use a putty knife to remove any old plumber’s putty or debris from the sink drain opening. The opening should be clean and smooth before you install the new drain parts.
5. **Apply plumber’s putty to the new drain flange.** Roll a rope of plumber’s putty around the edge of the new drain flange. The putty will help to seal the flange to the sink and prevent leaks.
6. **Insert the new drain flange into the sink drain opening.** Press the new drain flange into the sink drain opening. The putty will help to hold the flange in place.
7. **Tighten the drain flange.** Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the drain flange. Be sure to tighten the flange securely, but do not overtighten it.
8. **Install the new drain strainer.** Place the new drain strainer over the drain flange. The strainer will help to catch food and debris from going down the drain.
9. **Tighten the strainer nuts.** Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the strainer nuts. Be sure to tighten the nuts securely, but do not overtighten them.
10. **Install the new tailpiece.** The tailpiece is the pipe that connects the drain flange to the trap. Screw the tailpiece onto the drain flange. Be sure to wrap the threads of the tailpiece with Teflon tape before screwing it on.
11. **Install the new trap.** The trap is the U-shaped pipe that prevents sewer gases from escaping into the kitchen. Connect the trap to the tailpiece. Be sure to wrap the threads of the trap with Teflon tape before screwing it on.
12. **Tighten the trap nuts.** Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the trap nuts. Be sure to tighten the nuts securely, but do not overtighten them.
13. **Turn on the water supply.** Once the new drain parts are installed, turn on the water supply to the sink. Check for leaks around the drain flange, strainer, tailpiece, and trap. If you see any leaks, tighten the nuts until the leaks stop.
## Additional Tips
* If you are not sure how to install a particular drain part, consult the instructions that came with the part.
* If you are having difficulty tightening the drain nuts, use a pair of pliers to help you.
* If you are replacing a garbage disposal, you will need to disconnect the old disposal before you can install the new one.
* If you are not comfortable working on plumbing, it is best to hire a plumber to install the new drain parts.
## Conclusion
Installing kitchen sink drain parts is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can save yourself the cost of hiring a plumber.