Installing a pop-up bathroom sink drain stopper may seem challenging, but with the right tools and a step-by-step approach, you can complete the task efficiently. Whether you’re replacing an old drain or installing a new one, this guide will walk you through every step, ensuring your sink functions properly and looks great.

Tools and Materials Needed:

• Pop-up drain stopper assembly
• Plumber’s putty or silicone sealant
• Adjustable wrench
• Channel-lock pliers
• Basin wrench (optional)
• Bucket or towel
• Teflon tape (optional)

Step 1: Remove the Old Drain Assembly (If Replacing)

1. Turn Off the Water: While you won’t be working directly with water lines, it’s a good idea to turn off the water supply in case any connections need adjusting.

2. Place a Bucket Under the Sink: Place a bucket or towel under the sink to catch any residual water during the removal process.

3. Disconnect the Drain Pipe: Using an adjustable wrench or channel-lock pliers, loosen and disconnect the P-trap (the U-shaped pipe under the sink) from the drain tailpiece. Be careful, as water may spill out when you remove it.

4. Remove the Old Drain:
• From under the sink, unscrew the locknut that secures the drain assembly to the sink.
• Once the locknut and any washers are removed, push the old drain assembly up and out of the sink basin.

5. Clean the Sink Opening: Remove any old plumber’s putty or silicone sealant from the sink drain opening, ensuring the surface is smooth and clean for the new drain installation.

Step 2: Prepare the New Pop-Up Drain Stopper Assembly

1. Assemble the Drain Components: Your new pop-up drain stopper will typically come in several pieces, including the drain body, stopper, flange, pivot rod, and other small components. Lay these out so you can easily follow the installation process.

2. Apply Plumber’s Putty or Silicone Sealant:
• Roll a small amount of plumber’s putty into a rope-like shape and place it around the underside of the drain flange (the part that sits in the sink opening).
• If you prefer silicone sealant, apply a thin bead around the flange instead of plumber’s putty.
• This creates a watertight seal between the drain flange and the sink.

Step 3: Install the Drain Body

1. Insert the Drain Body:
• From above the sink, insert the drain body (the threaded part of the drain assembly) through the sink drain opening.
• Press it down firmly to ensure the plumber’s putty or sealant forms a tight seal between the flange and the sink.

2. Secure the Drain from Underneath:
• From under the sink, slide the rubber gasket, washer, and locknut onto the drain body.
• Hand-tighten the locknut, then use the adjustable wrench or channel-lock pliers to finish tightening. Be careful not to overtighten, as this could crack the sink or damage the gasket.

3. Wipe Away Excess Putty: After tightening the drain, go back to the top of the sink and wipe away any excess plumber’s putty or sealant that squeezed out from under the flange.

Step 4: Install the Pop-Up Mechanism

1. Install the Pivot Rod:
• Locate the hole near the bottom of the drain body. Insert the pivot rod (a small rod included in the assembly kit) into this hole. The pivot rod is what allows the stopper to move up and down when you pull or push the lift rod.

2. Connect the Stopper:
• Insert the pop-up stopper into the drain from the top of the sink.
• Underneath, connect the pivot rod to the bottom of the stopper. The rod will typically have a small hole or notch where the stopper can be attached.

3. Adjust the Stopper’s Height:
• With the stopper and pivot rod connected, use the clip provided in the assembly kit to secure the pivot rod to the drain tailpiece.
• Adjust the height of the stopper by moving the pivot rod up or down until it moves smoothly in and out of the drain when you operate the lift rod.

Step 5: Connect the Lift Rod

1. Insert the Lift Rod:
• Insert the lift rod (the rod that sticks out of the faucet and controls the pop-up stopper) into the hole in the faucet. This will be connected to the pivot rod mechanism.

2. Connect the Lift Rod to the Pivot Rod:
• Under the sink, use the clevis strap (a flat metal strap with holes) to connect the lift rod to the pivot rod.
• Insert the lift rod into one of the holes in the clevis strap, then secure it with a small clip or screw provided in the kit.

3. Test the Movement:
• Test the movement of the pop-up stopper by pulling up and pushing down on the lift rod. The stopper should raise and lower smoothly. If needed, adjust the pivot rod or clevis strap until the stopper operates properly.

Step 6: Reconnect the Drain Pipe

1. Reattach the P-Trap:
• Once the stopper mechanism is working correctly, reconnect the P-trap to the drain tailpiece using the adjustable wrench or channel-lock pliers.

2. Apply Teflon Tape (Optional):
• If your drain connections are threaded, apply a small amount of Teflon tape to the threads before reconnecting to ensure a tight, leak-free seal.

Step 7: Test for Leaks

1. Turn on the Water:
• Turn on the water supply and run water into the sink.

2. Check for Leaks:
• Inspect all the connections under the sink, including the P-trap, drain tailpiece, and around the flange, to ensure there are no leaks.
• If you notice any drips, tighten the connections slightly or add more plumber’s putty or sealant where necessary.

Step 8: Clean Up

1. Wipe Down the Sink:
• Clean any remaining putty or debris from around the drain and sink area.

2. Dispose of Old Materials:
• Properly dispose of the old drain assembly and any leftover materials.

Conclusion

Installing a pop-up bathroom sink drain stopper involves several key steps, but by following this detailed guide, you can complete the job efficiently and effectively. Whether you’re working with a new sink installation or replacing an old drain, the process ensures your sink remains functional and aesthetically pleasing. By properly securing each connection and testing for leaks, you’ll avoid future problems and keep your sink in top shape.

Here is a Video Guide on How to install a pop-up bathroom sink drain, Please Click the link below to watch our video

How To Install Pop-up Bathroom Sink Drain Assembly With Overflow|MAX Faucets|, Install drain stopper