Delta Bathroom Sink Drain Installation Instructions

Installing a new bathroom sink drain offers an opportunity to update the look of a bathroom while also addressing potential issues such as leaks or corrosion from an old drain assembly. Replacing a drain is a relatively straightforward plumbing project achievable by many homeowners with basic tools and a clear understanding of the process. These instructions specifically address the installation of a Delta bathroom sink drain, known for their quality and durability. This guide will walk through the steps necessary to install a Delta bathroom sink drain correctly, ensuring a watertight seal and proper functionality.

Before beginning any plumbing work, safety is paramount. Ensure the water supply to the faucet is completely shut off. Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and turn them clockwise until they are fully closed. If shut-off valves are not present or are malfunctioning, the main water supply to the house must be turned off. To relieve any residual water pressure, turn on the bathroom faucet until the water flow ceases completely. Gather all necessary tools and materials before commencing the installation process. This preparatory step minimizes disruptions and ensures a smooth and efficient installation.

Necessary Tools and Materials

Successful installation requires specific tools and materials readily available at most hardware stores. The list includes:

New Delta bathroom sink drain assembly
Adjustable wrench
Basin wrench (also known as a sink wrench)
Plumber's putty
Pliers
Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead)
Clean rags or towels
Bucket
Safety glasses
Gloves (optional)

Having these tools readily accessible will streamline the installation process and minimize potential delays. Ensure the plumber's putty is fresh and pliable for optimal sealing.

Removing the Old Drain Assembly

The first step in installing the new Delta drain is to remove the existing drain assembly. Place a bucket underneath the drain to catch any remaining water. Disconnect the P-trap from the tailpiece of the old drain. The P-trap is the curved pipe section designed to trap debris and prevent sewer gases from entering the bathroom. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the slip nuts connecting the P-trap to the tailpiece and the drainpipe in the wall. Carefully detach the P-trap and set it aside for cleaning if desired. Inspect the P-trap for any signs of damage or corrosion and replace it if necessary.

Next, disconnect the lift rod assembly, which controls the pop-up drain stopper. The connection point varies depending on the drain model, but it usually involves a small clip or a screw. Disconnect the clevis screw connecting the lift rod to the horizontal pivot rod. Once the lift rod assembly is detached, proceed to remove the drain flange from inside the sink. The drain flange is the part of the drain that sits flush with the sink basin. It is usually held in place by a large nut underneath the sink. Use a basin wrench to loosen this nut. The basin wrench is specifically designed to reach tight spaces under the sink. If the nut is corroded or difficult to turn, apply penetrating oil and allow it to sit for a few minutes before attempting to loosen it again.

Once the nut is loosened, carefully unscrew it completely. While holding the drain flange from inside the sink, remove the nut and any associated washers or gaskets from underneath. The drain flange can now be pushed up and out of the sink. Clean the sink opening thoroughly, removing any old putty or sealant. A scraper or putty knife can be helpful for removing stubborn residue. Ensure the surface is clean and dry before proceeding to install the new drain.

Installing the New Delta Drain Assembly

With the old drain removed and the sink basin cleaned, the installation of the new Delta drain assembly can begin. The Delta drain assembly typically consists of several components: the drain flange, a rubber washer, a cardboard friction washer, the drain body, a tightening nut, and the tailpiece. Begin by applying a generous rope of plumber's putty around the underside of the drain flange. Ensure the putty is applied evenly and without gaps to create a watertight seal. Press the drain flange firmly into the sink opening, centering it carefully.

From underneath the sink, slide the rubber washer, followed by the cardboard friction washer, onto the drain body. These washers help to create a watertight seal and prevent the drain from loosening over time. Thread the tightening nut onto the drain body, tightening it by hand until snug. Use an adjustable wrench to further tighten the nut, ensuring the drain flange is firmly seated in the sink. Avoid over-tightening, as this could damage the sink or the drain assembly. The putty should squeeze out slightly around the edges of the drain flange. Remove any excess putty with a clean rag.

Align the tailpiece with the drain body and secure it in place with the appropriate nut. Ensure the connections are snug but not overly tightened. Place the horizontal pivot rod into the designated opening in the drain body. The pivot rod operates the pop-up drain stopper. Insert the pop-up stopper into the drain flange from inside the sink. Ensure the stopper moves freely and aligns properly with the pivot rod. Connect the lift rod to the pivot rod using the clevis screw. Adjust the clevis strap to achieve the desired height and travel of the pop-up stopper. Test the operation of the pop-up stopper to ensure it opens and closes smoothly. Make any necessary adjustments to the lift rod assembly until the stopper functions correctly.

Connecting the P-Trap and Testing for Leaks

Once the drain assembly is securely in place, the P-trap can be reconnected. Align the P-trap with the tailpiece of the new drain and the drainpipe in the wall. Ensure the slip nuts are properly positioned and tighten them by hand until snug. Use an adjustable wrench to further tighten the slip nuts, ensuring a watertight seal. Again, avoid over-tightening, as this could damage the pipes or the fittings.

With all connections made, it's time to test for leaks. Slowly turn on the water supply to the faucet. Check all connections around the drain flange, the tailpiece, the P-trap, and the drainpipe for any signs of leakage. If any leaks are detected, immediately turn off the water supply and tighten the affected connections. If the leak persists, disassemble the connection, inspect the components for damage, and reassemble with fresh plumber's putty or Teflon tape as needed. Repeat the leak test until all connections are watertight.

After confirming that there are no leaks, run water into the sink for several minutes to ensure the drain is functioning properly. Observe the water flow and check for any signs of clogs or obstructions. If the drain is slow or clogged, it may be necessary to use a drain snake or other drain-clearing tool to remove any debris. Once the drain is functioning smoothly and there are no leaks, the installation is complete. Clean up any remaining tools and materials and dispose of the old drain assembly properly.