How To Fix Leaking Kitchen Sink Drain

A leaking kitchen sink drain can be a major nuisance. Not only can it create a mess, but it can also damage your cabinets and flooring. If you're dealing with a leaky sink drain, there are a few things you can do to fix it.

Check the P-trap

The P-trap is the U-shaped pipe that connects the sink drain to the drainpipe. It is designed to hold water, which creates a seal that prevents sewer gases from escaping into your home. Over time, the P-trap can become clogged with hair, soap scum, and other debris, which can cause it to leak.

To check the P-trap, follow these steps:

Place a bucket under the P-trap to catch any water that may leak out.
Loosen the nuts that hold the P-trap in place.
Remove the P-trap and clean it out.
Reinstall the P-trap and tighten the nuts.

Replace the washer

The washer is a rubber gasket that sits between the sink drain and the P-trap. Over time, the washer can become worn or damaged, which can cause it to leak.

To replace the washer, follow these steps:

Turn off the water supply to the sink.
Loosen the nuts that hold the P-trap in place.
Remove the P-trap.
Remove the old washer from the sink drain.
Install a new washer.
Reinstall the P-trap and tighten the nuts.

Tighten the slip nut

The slip nut is the nut that holds the drainpipe to the sink drain. Over time, the slip nut can become loose, which can cause it to leak.

To tighten the slip nut, follow these steps:

Turn off the water supply to the sink.
Loosen the nuts that hold the P-trap in place.
Remove the P-trap.
Tighten the slip nut with a wrench.
Reinstall the P-trap and tighten the nuts.

Replace the drainpipe

If the P-trap, washer, and slip nut are all in good condition, then the leak may be coming from the drainpipe. The drainpipe is the pipe that carries wastewater from the sink to the drain. Over time, the drainpipe can become corroded or damaged, which can cause it to leak.

To replace the drainpipe, follow these steps:

Turn off the water supply to the sink.
Disconnect the drainpipe from the sink drain and the P-trap.
Remove the old drainpipe.
Install a new drainpipe.
Connect the drainpipe to the sink drain and the P-trap.

If you are unable to fix the leak yourself, you may need to call a plumber. A plumber can diagnose the problem and repair the leak quickly and efficiently.