We all know that bathroom sinks are an integral part of your home and the stopper is one of its key components. Over time, the stopper may get damaged or fail and this is when we need to replace it. The general types of plugs are pop-up plugs, twist types, and lever types. In this article, we will detail the steps and tips on how to replace the Pop-Up Plug in a bathroom basin so that you can accomplish this task with ease!
Types of Sink Plugs
Before we start replacing a sink stopper, it’s important to first identify its type. Different plug types may require different methods and tools to replace. Here are the common types of sink plugs:
- Spring-loaded: this type of stopper usually has a center button that pops up and closes the drain when you press it. Press it again and it pops up and opens the drain. This design is simple and easy to operate.
- Twist: This plug requires you to turn it to open or close it. It usually has a twist top that rises or falls as you turn it, opening or closing the drain.
- Lever: This type of stopper is controlled by a lever on the back. When you pull up on the lever, the plug drops and closes the drain; when you push down on the lever, the plug rises and opens the drain.
Here you can learn about sink material types.
Prepared Tools
To ensure a smooth replacement process, you need to prepare the following tools and materials:
- Wrench: for turning and removing plugs or related parts.
- Screwdriver: Some plugs may require a screwdriver to remove or secure them.
- Replacement plugs: make sure you have purchased new plugs that match the original.
- Basin or Towel: Place under the sink to catch any drips that may fall and to keep the work area dry.
- Gloves (optional): if you are concerned about your hands coming into contact with dirt or other substances, you may choose to wear gloves.
How do I Replace the Pop-up Plug?
A pop-up stopper (often referred to as a “spring-loaded stopper”) is one of the most common stoppers used in bathroom sinks. It works by using a lever at the bottom to control the pop-up or push-down of the stopper, which opens or closes the drain. Here are the steps for replacing a pop-up stopper:
1. Shut off the water supply
Although it is not usually necessary to turn off the water when replacing plugs, it is advisable to do so for safety reasons.
2. Remove the old plug
Locate the water pipe underneath the sink. You should see a long rod attached to the back of the hose, this is the rod piece that controls the ejection of the plug. Undo the nut between the rod piece and the water pipe. This can usually be turned by hand, but if it’s too tight, you can use a wrench.
Once the nut is undone, the rod piece can be easily pulled out of the water pipe. Pull out the old pop-up plug from the top of the sink.
3. Cleaning the drain
Use a clean cloth or towel to clean the drain opening and the area around it to ensure that the new stopper can be installed smoothly.
Related reading: How to Remove Stains from Bathroom Basins
4. Installing the new stopper
Ensure that the old plug and the new plug are the same size and shape before installing the new plug, this will ensure that the new plug fits perfectly in your wash basin.
Place the new pop-up stopper into the drain.
From underneath the washbasin, make sure the rod piece fits through the bottom hole of the new plug.
Reconnect the rod piece to the hose and tighten the nut again.
5. Testing
Turn on the water supply and make sure the stopper is working properly and that there are no leaks in the drain.
6. Cleaning the work area
Clean the work area with a clean cloth or towel to ensure there is no water or other debris.
Conclusion
Replacing a bathroom sink stopper is not a complicated task and can be done easily if you follow the steps above and make sure you use the right tools. Hopefully, this article has helped you better understand how to replace a bathroom sink stopper. If you have any questions or suggestions, feel free to share them with us in the comments below! If you need to replace the sink or buy a new stopper for more bathroom accessories, click the button below and you will get something different.
