Installing a basket strainer in your kitchen sink is an important plumbing task that can save you from costly repairs in the future. A basket strainer is a must-have kitchen accessory that acts as a filter to trap food debris and prevent it from clogging your sink drain. While it may seem daunting at first, installing a basket strainer is actually a simple process that can be done with some basic tools and a little know-how.
In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of installing a basket strainer in your kitchen sink. We will cover everything from what tools you will need to how to remove your old strainer and install the new one. So whether you are a seasoned DIYer or a novice homeowner, this article will provide you with all the information you need to get the job done quickly and easily.
Gather Necessary Tools and Materials
Before you start installing a basket strainer in your kitchen sink, make sure you gather all the necessary tools and materials. This will make the whole process easier and quicker. Some of the tools you will need include a wrench, screwdriver, putty knife, and plumber’s putty. Additionally, you will need a basket strainer kit, which includes the basket, lock nut, rubber washer, and cardboard gasket.
You can find these tools and materials at any home improvement store or online. It’s essential to ensure that the basket strainer you buy fits your sink’s dimensions and matches your kitchen’s décor. Having all the necessary tools and materials at hand before starting the installation process will not only save you time but also reduce the likelihood of making mistakes.
Remove Existing Strainer and Clean Sink
Before installing a new basket strainer in your kitchen sink, you need to remove the existing one. Start by turning off the water supply to your sink and placing a bucket underneath the sink to catch any water left in the pipes. Next, use a pair of pliers to unscrew the locknut that holds the old strainer in place. Loosen the locknut slowly, and be prepared to catch the strainer as you remove it.
Once you have removed the old strainer, take some time to clean the sink thoroughly. Use a scrub brush and a good quality kitchen cleaner to scrub away any dirt and grime, paying particular attention to the area around the drain. Rinse the sink with warm water and dry it completely with a clean towel. By removing the old strainer and cleaning the sink, you’ll be able to ensure that your new basket strainer is installed securely and will last for years to come.
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Check Fit of the New Strainer
After buying a new basket strainer for your kitchen sink, the next step is to check its fit. To do this, you will need to remove the old strainer and compare it with the new one. Ensure that the new strainer is the same size and shape as the old one. If the sizes don’t match, you may need to return the strainer or purchase an adapter that will help you connect it securely with the sink.
Once you have confirmed that the new basket strainer is the same size as the old one, check if it fits snugly into the sink. Place it over the drain hole and push it down to see if it sits flush with the sink surface. If you notice any gaps or wobbling, provide extra plumbers tape or use silicone caulk around the rim of the sink, so the strainer fixes firmly. Taking these steps will ensure that the basket strainer fits securely and drains water efficiently.
Apply Plumbers Putty to the Base of the Strainer
Once you have removed the old strainer basket, it’s time to apply plumber’s putty to the base of the new strainer. Plumbers putty is a soft, sticky substance that comes in a tub and is used to create a water tight seal between the base of the strainer and the sink. This step is essential to prevent water from leaking out of the sink.
To apply the plumbers putty, simply take a small amount of the putty and roll it into a ball. Then, flatten the putty ball and place it on the underside of the strainer. Ensure that the putty covers the entire circumference of the strainer. Once the putty is in place, carefully insert the strainer into the sink’s hole. Use moderate pressure to push it down and create a firm seal with the putty. Wipe off any excess putty that may have squeezed out from underneath the strainer.
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Secure the Strainer in Place
Once you have inserted the basket strainer into the sink drain, the next step is to secure it in place. This is achieved by attaching the mounting hardware provided with the strainer. The mounting hardware mostly consists of a locknut, a rubber gasket, and a large washer. The locknut is screwed onto the basket strainer, and the rubber gasket is placed over the strainer before inserting it into the drain hole. Once it is in place, the large washer is placed over the gasket, and the locknut is tightened with either a wrench or by hand to secure the basket strainer firmly in place.
It is essential to make sure that the basket strainer is tightly secured to prevent leaks and ensure that it functions correctly. Check that the strainer sits flush against the sink surface, and there are no gaps between the strainer and the sink. Finally, run a small amount of water through the strainer to check for any leaks. If there are no leaks, congratulations, you have successfully installed a basket strainer in your kitchen sink!
Connect Drain Pipes
After attaching the basket strainer and tightening it, the next step is to connect the drain pipes. Firstly, you need to install the tailpiece that goes into the strainer from the sink. Ensure that you secure the tailpiece using a slip nut and washer. The assembly of slip nut and washer should be fitted tightly to provide a leak-proof seal between the sink and the tailpiece.
Once you install the tailpiece, connect the trap arm to the drain pipe. Make sure that the trap arm is at an appropriate height above the floor and forms a “P” shape trap that prevents the unpleasant smells from coming back into the kitchen sink. Tighten the slip nuts using pliers, and be careful not to overtighten it as it can cause the drain to leak. Inspect the assembly and ensure that no leakage is occurring from the drain pipes. You can then slowly turn on the faucet to test the water flow and check if there are any additional leaks.
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Test the Strainer for Proper Functioning
Once you have installed the basket strainer in your kitchen sink, it’s important to test it for proper functioning. This will ensure that it is correctly installed and will prevent any issues from occurring in the future. Firstly, fill up your sink with water and let it drain out slowly. If the strainer is working correctly, you should see that the water drains smoothly without any leaks or blockages.
Next, place some debris such as food scraps or paper bits into the sink and run water over it. This will help you to see if the basket strainer can effectively trap debris without clogging up the drain. Check that the strainer is secure and doesn’t move around when water is running over it. If everything looks good and the strainer is working correctly, then congratulations – you have successfully installed a basket strainer into your kitchen sink!
Final Words
Learning how to install a basket strainer in your kitchen sink can be a daunting task, but with the right tools and steps, it can be done easily. You should always ensure that you have the right-sized strainer that fits your sink before starting. Remember to turn off the water supply to avoid any mishaps, and always keep a towel or rag ready to clean up any spills.
In the end, a basket strainer is a useful addition to any kitchen sink. It helps to prevent food particles and other debris from clogging your sink, making it easier to maintain cleanliness. With a little patience and practice, you too can become a pro at installing basket strainers and enjoy the benefits they provide.
Further Reading: How to Easily Take Off a Sink Strainer in 5 Simple Steps