Learning how to change a broken drain stopper : the easy way

When the waste plug of a sink, washbasin, bathtub, or bidet is worn out or broken, it can cause leaks that will let water seep everywhere, sometimes without you even realising it!

In such cases, you might end up with water damage like this:

Ouch, that bill is going to be expensive.

Yet, replacing a shower or sink waste plug will not cost you much.

If you enjoy DIY, this is a small repair that only requires a few tools. 

So, I asked the top plumbers available on Yoojo to create a detailed guide so you can change your plughole with confidence.

In this guide, I’ll explain:

 

How to distinguish between types of waste plugs?

Let’s start with the basics because there are different types of waste plugs.

There are 3 main types:

1°) The lever waste plug 

Is recognised by its chrome rod that goes through the tap or the edge of the sink and operates a lever system that moves the stopper. 

It consists of two parts that must be screwed on either side of the drain. The siphon is screwed onto the outer thread of the lower part of the lever waste plug.

You can easily recognise it by its rod:

2°) The click-clack waste plug 

Is a more recent model characterised by its single tube: when pressure is applied to the stopper, the tube opens and closes. 

There are click-clack waste plugs with overflow, perfect for sinks, basins, and hand wash basins. If you have a washbasin without an overflow, you should choose a free-flow model.

Here’s an example of a click-clack waste plug:

 

3°) The free-flow waste plug 

Lets water flow continuously as its stopper stays open. 

This model is designed for washbasins and basins without an overflow to prevent spills.

The free-flow waste plug is open at the top:

Manufacturers offer adapters that can convert a click-clack waste plug into a free-flow model, if that’s something you’re interested in!

Now, let’s get to the step-by-step guide to replace your waste plug.

How to replace a worn or damaged waste plug?

This small repair doesn’t require special skills and can be done in 15 minutes if you’re handy. 

If you think you might make things worse, it’s a good idea to ask the help of an experienced plumber. 

After all, changing a waste plug only costs a few dozen pounds with Yoojo, as you can see from these recent requests

To replace your waste plug, you’ll need a screwdriver set, a replacement waste plug, and a pair of gloves to help with the repair, which involves several steps:

1-Remove the old or damaged waste plug

Before starting, it’s best to close the valve to cut off the water supply. Also, place a bucket under the siphon before removing it completely.

Then, you need to unscrew without forcing the two parts screwed together using a pair of pliers. 

If it’s a lever model, you’ll need to reverse the same motion, though usually, the lever and rod don’t need to be replaced.

2-Fit the new waste plug

The waste plug often comes in several parts. To install it correctly, use the grille included in the waste plug kit. 

Place the grille inside the sanitary appliance at the drain hole.

Use the tightening screw to secure the grille, but don’t tighten it fully yet. 

On the outside, place the seal before positioning the drain plug. Now, you can tighten the screw to fix all the parts together.

3-Fix the waste plug to the sink

Depending on the type of waste plug, you’ll need to choose the right tool: for some, a simple screwdriver will do, while for others, you might need a hex socket wrench.

If it’s a waste plug with a device to collect food debris, the tightening screw is drilled, so it’s recommended to use two flathead screwdrivers to tighten it.

Pliers and a waste plug wrench may also be required in some cases.

4-Check the waste plug’s seal

Once the new waste plug is fitted, reconnect the siphon to the drains and the sanitary appliance.

Now you can test the seal: block the waste plug, then fill the appliance to the brim before opening the drain.

With this full flow, you’ll be able to check for leaks by running your hand along the outside wall to detect any water.

If there’s moisture, you’ll need to tighten the parts a bit more.

The technique for fitting an overflow sink waste plug

If you have an overflow sink, things get a bit more complex as you’ll need to connect two pipes. It’s a bit more tricky but totally doable if you’re patient.

Luckily, we have found a video explaining everything... it’s much better than a 500-word DIY guide:

Having a plumber replace a broken waste plug: Is it the solution?

Did you know that Yoojo lets you get in touch with qualified plumbers near you?

Instead of wasting your weekend replacing a broken sink plug, you can find a handyman for free who will take care of it for you. Why trust us?:

1. Posting a request is free
2. You only pay once the job is done
3. All profiles are verified and rated by the community