Tips On How To Fix A Leaky Sink Drain Pipe
The sink drain pipe under your sink is referred to as “P-Trap’ or ‘trap.’ It is U-shaped, and it may get leaky due to corrosion of the joining nuts or damages. And seeing water dripping from a leaky kitchen sink drain can be frustrating and painful.
But fret not…
This guideline on how to fix a leaky sink drain pipe will help you eliminate the leaks in no time and with convenience.
A Step By Step Guideline On How To Fix A Leaky Sink Drain Pipe
The leak on the drain pipe may happen for various reasons. So, it is important to observe where the leak has taken place, and then you can proceed with a plan to repair it.
Step 1: Find the source of a leaky drain pipe
You have to find where the leak has happened. For this, you have to observe the dripping water point. For instance, the leak may be caused by a leaky faucet connection if you see water dripping from the rear cabinet.
When the water drip from the center of the kitchen sink, the leak is in the assembly and joints of the kitchen sink pipe. This is where the U-shaped P-trap will need repair. At times, the dishwasher connection also may get damaged and will need fixation.
To find where the leak is taking place exactly, fill the sink and then observe underneath it. It will help you quickly diagnose the leaky drain pipe.
Step 2: Fix the drain pipe leak.
When you fill the sink with water and observe it underneath the kitchen sink, you will see the water dripping from the P-trap joints. It happens because the nuts holding the P-trap connection has become loose.
You have to tighten it. But before you start tightening it, place a bucket beneath the sink. It will collect water if there’s any and prevent flooding of the floor.
Many people use their hands to fasten the connection. But we don’t recommend it. You should use a set of pliers, ideally a groove and tongue pliers set to tighten the nuts connecting the p-trap or drain pipe.
However, even the tightening of the nuts may not stop pipe leaks. It happens if the leak is due to a damaged pipe section or loose washer.
Step 3: Fix the clamp or P-trap strainer
The most common reasons for a leaky drain pipe include damaging the clamp or washer on the dishwasher drain pipe. You need to disassemble the connection to change the damaged washer from the joining point.
Also, it would be best if you tightened the clamp using a screwdriver to stop leaks. Last but not least, the filter needs to be replaced if it is causing the leak.
- Disconnect the drain pipe after you have placed the bucket underneath it.
- Carefully loosen the P-trap and take it out from the sink.
- Use a long wire coat hanger to clean the inside of the drain pipe. Use the wire carefully so that you don’t damage the pipe during the process.
- Finally, fasten the nuts and attach the p-trap with them.
- Also, replace the adhesive or the washer if need be. The rubber sealing must be in good condition and stay flat with the drain pipe.
Final Words
When it comes to how to fix a leaky sink drain pipe, it starts with your observation of the leaky pipe. Once you find why the leak has happened, you can quickly fix it. The most common causes of sink drain pipes leak are damaged or worn-out washers and loosened slip and join nuts.
You need to replace the gasket or washer and tighten the screws properly. However, if the leak is a cause of P-trap pipe, you should call for a professional plumber as it is a difficult job for homeowners and may flood your kitchen unless done properly.
For any sort of professional help, Please contact Ranchocucamonga Plumbing Solution.