If you’re planning to install a kitchen sink strainer, you’re in the right place. A kitchen sink strainer is a crucial component of your sink that helps prevent food scraps, debris, and other waste materials from clogging your pipes. It’s an easy DIY project that you can complete in no time. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to install a kitchen sink strainer.
Step 1: Gather the Required Tools and Materials
Before you start, collect all the necessary tools and materials required to install a kitchen sink strainer. You’ll need a pair of pliers, a wrench, a screwdriver, a putty knife, a plumber’s putty, and the new sink strainer.
Step 2: Turn off the Water Supply
Before you begin the installation process, ensure that you turn off the water supply. Locate the shutoff valves under your sink and turn them off. You may also turn off the main water supply if you can’t find the shutoff valves.
Step 3: Remove the Old Sink Strainer
Using a wrench, loosen the nut that holds the old sink strainer in place. Turn it counterclockwise to remove it. If the nut is too tight, you can use pliers to loosen it. Once the nut is removed, take out the old sink strainer and clean the area around it with a putty knife.
Step 4: Apply Plumber’s Putty
Take a small amount of plumber’s putty and roll it into a thin rope. Apply it around the underside of the new sink strainer’s lip. Ensure that the putty is evenly distributed around the circumference of the lip.
Step 5: Insert the Sink Strainer
Insert the new sink strainer into the sink’s drain hole. Ensure that it’s centered properly and press it down firmly. Take a paper towel and wipe off any excess putty around the sink strainer.
Step 6: Attach the Locknut
From underneath the sink, thread the locknut onto the sink strainer’s tailpiece. Tighten the nut with your hand and use pliers to snug it up. Ensure that the sink strainer is centered and level before tightening the locknut completely.
Step 7: Remove the Excess Putty
Take a putty knife and remove any excess plumber’s putty around the sink strainer. Wipe off any remaining putty with a paper towel.
Step 8: Reconnect the Drain Pipe
Reconnect the drain pipe to the tailpiece of the sink strainer. Tighten the nut with your hand and use pliers to snug it up. Ensure that the pipe is aligned properly before tightening the nut completely.
Step 9: Turn on the Water Supply
Turn on the water supply and check for any leaks around the sink strainer. If there are any leaks, tighten the nuts with pliers until the leaks stop.
Step 10: Clean Up
Clean up the area around the sink and dispose of any old parts or waste materials. Your new kitchen sink strainer is now installed and ready to use.
Conclusion
Installing a kitchen sink strainer is a simple DIY project that can be completed in a few easy steps. With the right tools and materials, you can save money and time by doing it yourself. Follow this step-by-step guide to install your new kitchen sink strainer and enjoy a clog-free sink.