How To Repair A Leaking Bathroom Sink

How to Repair a Leaking Bathroom Sink: A Step-by-Step Guide

A leaky bathroom sink can be an annoying and wasteful problem. The dripping water can disrupt your sleep, increase your water bills, and potentially damage your bathroom fixtures or floor. Fortunately, fixing a leaking bathroom sink is often a relatively simple DIY project that can be completed in a few hours.

Here's a step-by-step guide on how to repair a leaking bathroom sink:

1. Gather Your Tools and Materials

Adjustable wrench
Pliers
Screwdriver
Sink drain stopper
Basin wrench (optional)
Plumber's putty
Replacement washer (if necessary)
New O-rings (if necessary)

2. Turn Off the Water Supply

Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise to turn off the water supply. If there are no shut-off valves, you'll need to turn off the main water supply to your house.

3. Remove the Drain Stopper

Use the pliers to loosen and remove the drain stopper. This will allow you to access the drainpipe.

4. Remove the P-Trap

The P-trap is the U-shaped pipe that connects the drainpipe to the sink. Use the adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the P-trap in place. Carefully remove the P-trap and empty any remaining water.

5. Inspect the Drainpipe

Check the drainpipe for any cracks or leaks. If the drainpipe is damaged, you'll need to replace it. If the drainpipe is clear, move on to the next step.

6. Inspect the Sink Faucet

Turn on the water supply and check the faucet for leaks. If the faucet is leaking, you'll need to replace the washer or O-rings. To replace the washer, use the screwdriver to remove the aerator and then use the adjustable wrench to tighten the packing nut. To replace the O-rings, use the pliers to remove the old O-rings and install the new O-rings.

7. Reassemble the Sink

Once the faucet is repaired, reassemble the sink. Apply plumber's putty to the base of the faucet and insert the faucet into the sinkhole. Tighten the nuts that hold the faucet in place. Reattach the P-trap and drain stopper.