## How to Replace a Kitchen Sink Drain
Replacing a kitchen sink drain is a relatively simple plumbing repair 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 or basin wrench
– Plumber’s putty or silicone sealant
– New drain assembly
– Bucket or bowl
– Rags or towels
### Step-by-Step Instructions
**1. Turn off the water supply.** Before you begin, turn off the water supply to your kitchen sink. You can usually do this by turning off the valves under the sink. If you don’t know where the valves are, consult your sink’s installation manual.
**2. Remove the old drain assembly.** Use an adjustable wrench or basin wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the drain assembly in place. Be careful not to overtighten the nuts, as this can damage the sink. Once the nuts are loose, you can remove the old drain assembly by hand.
**3. Clean the sink drain hole.** Use a rag or towel to clean the sink drain hole of any debris or old sealant. This will help ensure that the new drain assembly fits properly.
**4. Apply plumber’s putty or silicone sealant.** Apply a bead of plumber’s putty or silicone sealant around the base of the new drain assembly. This will help create a watertight seal.
**5. Install the new drain assembly.** Insert the new drain assembly into the sink drain hole. Be sure to align the drain assembly with the drain hole.
**6. Tighten the nuts.** Use an adjustable wrench or basin wrench to tighten the nuts that hold the drain assembly in place. Be sure to tighten the nuts evenly, as this will help prevent leaks.
**7. Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.** Turn on the water supply to your kitchen sink and check for leaks. If you find any leaks, tighten the nuts until the leaks stop.
### Tips
– If you’re not sure how to turn off the water supply to your kitchen sink, consult your sink’s installation manual.
– Be careful not to overtighten the nuts that hold the drain assembly in place, as this can damage the sink.
– If you’re having trouble removing the old drain assembly, you can try using a penetrating oil to loosen the nuts.
– If you’re not comfortable replacing the drain assembly yourself, you can always call a plumber for help.
### Conclusion
Replacing a kitchen sink drain is a relatively simple plumbing repair 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.