How To Install Kitchen Sink Strainer: The Ultimate Guide For Beginners

A kitchen sink strainer keeps food and other gunk out of your pipes. Can I install a kitchen sink strainer myself? Yes, you can! Replacing or installing a new kitchen sink strainer is a straightforward plumbing task that most homeowners can handle with basic tools and a little patience. This guide will walk you through the entire process, from choosing the right strainer to tightening the last nut.

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Why Replace Your Kitchen Sink Strainer?

Over time, your kitchen sink strainer can become corroded, cracked, or clogged. Here are some common reasons why you might need to replace your strainer:

• Leaks: Leaks around the strainer basket or the connections underneath the sink.
• Rust and Corrosion: Visible rust or corrosion on the strainer body.
• Clogs: Frequent clogs in the drain, even after cleaning.
• Damage: Physical damage to the strainer basket or other components.
• Old Age: If your strainer is very old, it might be time to replace it even if it’s still functioning.

Types of Kitchen Sink Strainers

Before you start, it’s important to know what kind of strainer you have and what your options are. Here’s a rundown of the common types of kitchen sink strainers:

• Standard Strainer: A simple basket strainer with a removable basket that catches debris. This is the most common type.

• Deep Cup Strainer: This type has a deeper cup to hold more debris, making it suitable for busy kitchens.

• Garbage Disposal Strainer: Designed for sinks with garbage disposals. These strainers have a flange that connects to the disposal unit.

• Bar Sink Strainer: Smaller strainers for bar sinks or prep sinks.

• Extended Thread Strainer: Used for thicker sinks, like those made of fireclay, where a standard strainer won’t have enough thread to secure properly.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

Gather these tools and materials before you begin your kitchen sink strainer installation.

• New Kitchen Sink Strainer: Choose the right type and size for your sink.
• Sink Strainer Wrench: This special wrench is designed to grip the strainer nut. A regular wrench can work, but this tool makes the job easier.
• Pliers: For gripping and loosening nuts and bolts.
• Screwdriver: Both flathead and Phillips head may be needed.
• Putty Knife or Scraper: To remove old plumber’s putty.
• Bucket: To catch water and debris.
• Rags or Paper Towels: For cleaning.
• Plumber’s Putty: To create a watertight seal.
• Channel-Lock Pliers: For loosening stubborn nuts.
• Safety Glasses: To protect your eyes.
• Gloves: To protect your hands.

How to Remove Old Sink Strainer

The first step is to how to remove old sink strainer. This can be the trickiest part of the whole job, especially if the old strainer is corroded.

1. Prepare the Area: Clear the area under the sink. Place a bucket under the drain to catch any water.

2. Loosen the Connections: Use pliers or a wrench to loosen the slip nuts connecting the drain pipes to the strainer. Be careful not to damage the pipes.

3. Detach the Drain Pipes: Once the slip nuts are loose, carefully detach the drain pipes from the strainer.

4. Loosen the Strainer Nut: This is the large nut that holds the strainer body to the sink. Use a sink strainer wrench to loosen this nut. If it’s stuck, try applying penetrating oil and letting it sit for a few minutes.

5. Remove the Old Strainer: Once the nut is loose, you should be able to push the strainer up and out of the sink.

6. Clean the Sink Opening: Use a putty knife or scraper to remove any old plumber’s putty or debris from the sink opening. Make sure the surface is clean and smooth.

Dealing with Stubborn Strainers

Sometimes, the old strainer is really stuck. Here are a few tips for dealing with stubborn strainers:

• Penetrating Oil: Apply penetrating oil to the strainer nut and let it sit for several hours or overnight.
• Heat: Use a heat gun or hair dryer to heat the strainer nut. The heat can help to loosen the corrosion. Be careful not to overheat the sink.
• Cutting: As a last resort, you can use a hacksaw to cut the strainer nut. Be very careful not to damage the sink.

Installing a New Sink Strainer

Now that the old strainer is out, it’s time for installing a new sink strainer. This process is relatively simple.

1. Prepare the New Strainer: Take apart the new strainer. You should have the strainer body, a rubber gasket, a fiber gasket, a mounting nut, and the strainer basket.

2. Apply Plumber’s Putty: Roll a rope of plumber’s putty and apply it around the underside of the strainer flange. This will create a watertight seal between the strainer and the sink.

3. Insert the Strainer Body: Insert the strainer body into the sink opening from above. Press down firmly to seat the strainer in the plumber’s putty.

4. Assemble the Under-Sink Components: From underneath the sink, slide on the rubber gasket, followed by the fiber gasket, and then the mounting nut.

5. Tighten the Mounting Nut: Use a sink strainer wrench to tighten the mounting nut. Tighten it until the strainer is snug and the plumber’s putty begins to squeeze out.

6. Remove Excess Putty: Use a putty knife or your finger to remove any excess plumber’s putty from around the edge of the strainer in the sink.

7. Reconnect the Drain Pipes: Reconnect the drain pipes to the strainer using the slip nuts. Tighten the slip nuts securely.

Tips for a Watertight Seal

• Use Enough Putty: Don’t skimp on the plumber’s putty. Make sure you have a generous amount to create a good seal.
• Tighten Evenly: Tighten the mounting nut evenly to avoid distorting the strainer body.
• Check for Leaks: After installing the strainer, run water into the sink and check for leaks around the strainer and the drain connections. If you see any leaks, tighten the connections further.

Garbage Disposal Strainer Installation

If you’re installing a strainer for a sink with a garbage disposal, the process is slightly different. Here are the steps for garbage disposal strainer installation:

1. Prepare the Strainer: The garbage disposal strainer typically comes with a mounting flange that attaches to the disposal unit.

2. Follow Disposal Instructions: Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for attaching the mounting flange to the garbage disposal.

3. Install the Strainer Body: Insert the strainer body into the sink opening from above. Apply plumber’s putty as described above.

4. Connect to the Disposal: Connect the garbage disposal to the mounting flange according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

5. Tighten and Test: Tighten all connections and test for leaks.

Kitchen Sink Drain Assembly

The kitchen sink drain assembly includes all the pipes and fittings that connect the strainer to the main drain line. Make sure all parts of the drain assembly are correctly installed and tightened to prevent leaks.

Common Drain Assembly Problems

• Leaky Slip Nuts: Make sure the slip nuts are tightened securely. You may need to replace the washers inside the slip nuts if they are worn or damaged.
• Clogged Pipes: Regularly clean the drain pipes to prevent clogs.
• Misaligned Pipes: Make sure the pipes are properly aligned to avoid stress on the connections.

Sink Strainer Basket Replacement

The sink strainer basket replacement is a simple repair. If your strainer basket is damaged, you can usually replace it without replacing the entire strainer.

1. Remove the Old Basket: Simply lift out the old strainer basket.
2. Insert the New Basket: Insert the new strainer basket into the strainer body.
3. Test the Fit: Make sure the new basket fits snugly and seals properly.

Problems and Solutions

Problem	Solution
Leaks around strainer	Tighten the mounting nut further. Add more plumber’s putty. Check for damaged gaskets.
Leaks around drain pipes	Tighten the slip nuts. Replace the washers inside the slip nuts.
Strainer won’t tighten	Make sure you have the correct gaskets and washers. Check for stripped threads on the mounting nut. Consider using an extended thread strainer.
Clogs in the drain	Use a drain snake or plunger to clear the clog. Clean the strainer basket regularly.

Maintaining Your Kitchen Sink Strainer

Regular maintenance will help to keep your kitchen sink strainer functioning properly.

• Clean the Strainer Basket Regularly: Empty the strainer basket after each use to prevent clogs.
• Flush the Drain: Periodically flush the drain with hot water to clear out any debris.
• Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Avoid pouring harsh chemicals down the drain, as they can damage the strainer and pipes.
• Check for Leaks: Regularly check for leaks around the strainer and drain connections.

FAQ

• What is plumber’s putty? Plumber’s putty is a soft, pliable compound used to create a watertight seal around plumbing fixtures.
• Can I use silicone caulk instead of plumber’s putty? While silicone caulk can be used in some plumbing applications, plumber’s putty is generally recommended for sink strainers because it’s easier to work with and won’t dry out and crack over time.
• How often should I replace my kitchen sink strainer? A good quality strainer should last for many years. However, you may need to replace it sooner if it becomes damaged or corroded.
• What if I can’t remove the old strainer nut? Try using penetrating oil, heat, or a hacksaw. If all else fails, you may need to call a plumber.
• How do I know what size strainer to buy? Measure the diameter of the sink opening to determine the correct size strainer.
• Who is responsible for strainer installation in a rental property? Generally, the landlord is responsible for maintaining the plumbing in a rental property, including the kitchen sink strainer. However, it’s always a good idea to check your lease agreement.

Kitchen sink strainer installation and replace kitchen sink strainer are easy DIY projects. With this comprehensive guide, you are well-equipped to tackle this essential plumbing task and maintain a functional and leak-free kitchen sink. Good luck with installing a new sink strainer!

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