Basket strainer is a wonderful kitchen sink accessory. It works to filter debris in your sink and keep it from traveling farther down your pipes. The strainer holds water in the bowl and prevents food from flushing down the drain. A variety of finishes such as plastic, chrome or brass is available. The accessory resides between the hole of the sink and its drain pipe.
Sometimes, because of normal wear and tear, the seal between the drainpipe and the basket strainer is broken thereby water leaks all over the floor. Replacing this seal is a very easy process and is also quite economical.
It neither needs a plumber nor requires too many tools. It can easily be replaced with the help of tools that are generally available in any household.
First step is to loosen the slip nut using a spud wrench. Basically, a slip nut is a connecting piece made up of bronze that connects the strainer with the drainpipe.
Look at the strainer from underneath the sink. You will notice threads and a collar ring, known as the locknut. Remove the lock nut above the strainer using 16-inch slip-joint pliers or a plumber’s wrench. For a rusted lock nut, try opening it with screwdriver and hammering.
Bring out the deteriorated basket strainer and reinstate the new one. Beforehand, apply plumber’s putty all around the edges of the new strainer. Now, gently put back the strainer into the sink hole where the previous one was located.
Put the lock nut back on, tightening it until it touches the rubber washer. Let the washer settle down into place then tighten it completely. Don’t make it so tight that the washer protrudes out the sides. This one may require a helper in case the basket strainer–both old and new–is spinning while you’re loosening or tightening. Have him hold the basket in place.
Drain pipe may now be connected back to the basket strainer by fastening the slip nut connector. This is done with the spud wrench. To check whether the seal is water tight, fill the sink with water and run a piece of toilet paper around slip nut and lock nut. If the toilet paper is found is dry the seal is water tight.
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