## How to Remove a Kitchen Sink Drain Assembly
**Introduction**
A clogged kitchen sink drain can be a major inconvenience, but it’s usually a relatively easy fix. In most cases, you can remove the drain assembly and clean it yourself in just a few minutes. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it:
**Materials You’ll Need**
* Adjustable wrench
* Bucket or bowl
* Rag or towel
* Screwdriver (optional)
**Step 1: Turn Off the Water Supply**
Before you start working on the drain, it’s important to turn off the water supply under the sink. This will prevent water from leaking out while you’re working.
* Locate the shut-off valves under the sink. They are usually located near the base of the faucet.
* Turn the valves clockwise to close them.
**Step 2: Remove the Stopper**
The first step is to remove the stopper from the drain. This will give you access to the drain assembly.
* If your sink has a pop-up stopper, simply pull it up to remove it.
* If your sink has a rubber stopper, you can use a screwdriver to remove it. Insert the screwdriver into the slot in the stopper and pry it up.
**Step 3: Loosen the Lock Nut**
Once the stopper is removed, you will see a lock nut that holds the drain assembly in place.
* Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the lock nut. Turn it counterclockwise until it is loose enough to remove by hand.
**Step 4: Remove the Drain Assembly**
With the lock nut removed, you can now remove the drain assembly.
* Pull the drain assembly straight up to remove it from the sink.
* Be careful not to drop the assembly into the drainpipe.
**Step 5: Clean the Drain Assembly**
Once the drain assembly is removed, you can clean it.
* Use a brush or rag to remove any debris from the screen or strainer.
* If the drain assembly is clogged with grease or hair, you can soak it in a solution of vinegar and baking soda.
**Step 6: Reinstall the Drain Assembly**
Once the drain assembly is clean, you can reinstall it.
* Insert the drain assembly into the drainpipe.
* Tighten the lock nut by hand, then use the adjustable wrench to tighten it further.
* Replace the stopper.
**Step 7: Turn On the Water Supply**
Once the drain assembly is reinstalled, you can turn on the water supply.
* Turn the shut-off valves under the sink counterclockwise to open them.
* Check for leaks around the drain assembly. If you see any leaks, tighten the lock nut further.
**Tips**
* If you’re having trouble removing the lock nut, you can try applying some penetrating oil to it. Let the oil sit for a few minutes before trying to loosen the nut.
* If the drain assembly is very clogged, you may need to use a drain snake to clear it.
* If you’re not comfortable working on plumbing yourself, you can call a plumber to remove the drain assembly for you.
**Conclusion**
Removing a kitchen sink drain assembly is a simple task that you can do yourself in just a few minutes. By following these steps, you can quickly clear a clogged drain and get your sink working properly again.