Bathroom Sink Drain

The pop-up assembly on a bathroom drain has several moving parts that wear out over time. If the unit is made of thin metal or plastic that is easily bent or broken, you may not be able to repair it.

Troubleshooting

If a stopper is loose and won't stay open, tighten the pivot ball retaining nut.

If a stopper is difficult to raise, loosen the pivot ball retaining nut. If that doesn't work remove the pivot rod, clean out the opening in the drain body, and replace worn gaskets or washers. If the stopper does not seat all the way into the drain body when you pull up on the lift rod, adjust the lift rod.

If a stopper does not hold water, remove it and clean the rubber seal. If there is an O-ring, replace it or the stopper.

If water leaks from the pivot rod, tighten the retaining nut. If it still leaks, remove the pivot rod and replace the gaskets.

Prestart Checklist

Time
An hour or so for most repairs

Tools
Long-nose pliers, groove-joint pliers, screwdriver

Skills
No special skills needed

Prep
Make the work area comfortable; place a bucket under the assembly to catch water

Materials
Replacement 1-1/4-inch rubber or plastic washers, perhaps new gaskets, perhaps a new drain assembly, plumber's putty