Beyond Bending Tell You How
If you’re tired of dealing with clogged drains and food debris in your sink, installing a sink strainer can help. Sink strainers are designed to catch food particles and other debris before they go down the drain, preventing clogs and keeping your pipes clean. In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of installing a sink strainer in your kitchen sink.
What You’ll Need
Before you get started, you’ll need a few tools and materials:
- Sink strainer
- Plumber’s putty
- Adjustable wrench
- Screwdriver
- Bucket or container
Step 1: Remove the Old Strainer
The first step in installing a new sink strainer is to remove the old one. To do this, you’ll need to locate the locknut underneath the sink. This is the nut that holds the strainer in place.
Place a bucket or container underneath the sink to catch any water that may spill out. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the locknut by turning it counterclockwise. Once the locknut is loose, you should be able to remove the old strainer from the sink.
Step 2: Clean the Sink
Before you install the new sink strainer, it’s important to clean the sink thoroughly to remove any debris or residue left behind by the old strainer. Use a mild detergent and a scrub brush to clean the sink, and then rinse it with warm water and dry it with a soft cloth.
Step 3: Apply Plumber’s Putty
Next, you’ll need to apply a small amount of plumber’s putty to the underside of the new sink strainer. This will help create a watertight seal between the strainer and the sink.
To apply the putty, roll it into a thin rope and place it around the base of the strainer. Make sure the putty is evenly distributed around the base, and then press the strainer firmly into place in the sink.
Step 4: Tighten the Locknut
Once the sink strainer is in place, you’ll need to tighten the locknut underneath the sink to hold it securely in place. Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the locknut by turning it clockwise. Be careful not to overtighten, as this can damage the sink or the strainer.
Step 5: Test the Strainer
Finally, it’s time to test the sink strainer to make sure it’s working properly. Fill the sink with water and let it drain out. If the strainer is installed correctly, it should catch any food particles or debris that would otherwise go down the drain.
If you notice any leaks or water dripping from the sink strainer, you may need to tighten the locknut a bit more. If this doesn’t solve the problem, you may need to remove the strainer and reapply the plumber’s putty to create a better seal.
Conclusion
Installing a sink strainer is a simple DIY project that can help prevent clogs and keep your sink clean. By following these easy steps, you can install a new sink strainer in no time and enjoy a cleaner, more efficient kitchen sink.
