## How to Replace a Leak Under the Kitchen Sink
### Introduction
A leaking sink can be a major nuisance, and if left unrepaired, it can lead to more serious problems, such as water damage to your cabinets or flooring. Fortunately, replacing a leak under the kitchen sink is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours.
### Materials You Will Need
Before you begin, you will need to gather the following materials:
* New sink drain assembly
* Adjustable wrench
* Plumber’s putty
* Flashlight
* Cleaning rags
### Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Turn off the water supply.** Before you begin working on the sink, you must turn off the water supply to the sink. To do this, locate the two shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise until they are fully closed.
2. **Disconnect the old drain assembly.** Once the water supply is turned off, you can disconnect the old drain assembly. To do this, use an adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the drain assembly in place. Be careful not to overtighten the nuts, as you could damage the sink.
3. **Clean the sink drain.** Once the old drain assembly is removed, you can clean the sink drain. Use a flashlight to inspect the drain for any debris or buildup. If you find any debris, use a cleaning rag to remove it.
4. **Apply plumber’s putty to the new drain assembly.** Before you install the new drain assembly, you must apply plumber’s putty to the flange of the drain assembly. Plumber’s putty is a sticky, pliable material that will help to seal the drain assembly and prevent leaks. To apply plumber’s putty, roll it into a rope and then press it around the flange of the drain assembly.
5. **Install the new drain assembly.** Once the plumber’s putty has been applied, you can install the new drain assembly. To do this, insert the drain assembly into the sink drain and tighten the nuts until they are snug. Be careful not to overtighten the nuts, as you could damage the sink.
6. **Turn on the water supply.** Once the new drain assembly is installed, you can turn on the water supply and check for leaks. If you find any leaks, tighten the nuts on the drain assembly until the leaks stop.
### Troubleshooting
If you are having trouble replacing a leak under the kitchen sink, there are a few things you can check:
* **Make sure that the nuts on the drain assembly are tightened securely.** If the nuts are not tightened securely, the drain assembly will not be able to seal properly and will leak.
* **Check for debris in the sink drain.** If there is debris in the sink drain, it can block the drain and cause water to leak out.
* **Check for damage to the sink drain.** If the sink drain is damaged, it will not be able to seal properly and will leak. If you find any damage to the sink drain, you will need to replace it.
### Conclusion
Replacing a leak under the kitchen sink is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can save yourself the time and expense of hiring a plumber.