Utility sinks are easy and cheap to fix. You don't need an extraordinary amount of money or technical knowledge to fix them. You just have to get your hands dirty. It is so simple to do that many homeowners fix it on their own.
They don't pay hundreds of dollars for a few minutes of work.
The main question is, when do you need to fix a utility sink? Well, usually, there are two main conditions - clogged drains and leaks.
Now, of course, there can be many other issues too, like a broken faucet and cracked tubs. But, the issue mostly revolves around leakage, clogged drains, and low water pressure. These issues happen because of many reasons. For example, dirt, mud, or grime wash down the drain that leads to all these problems. And, when you don't clean them out or maintain them in the long run clogged drain kind of issues happen.
Apart from this, the leakage issue is mostly linked to the loose cartridge. Over time, it moves or twists which made the utility sink to leak.
Things You Need to Know First
If the issue is in the main pipelines, you require professional assistance, as sometimes the issue in the pipeline can cause damage to the utility sink too. For example, low water pressure or extra pressure can damage the new material. Changing the materials won't resolve anything.
Other than that, there are a few more things that you need to take into consideration.
- What's the countertop material? Do you need to take it off?
- What is the shape of countertop material? Is it round or with a larger diameter?
- Can you deal with any kind of dust particles or crack while fixing it?
- Do you need to install the plumbing pipes too while fixing utility sink?
- Do you have all the right tools and materials to fix it?
Consider all these questions before starting the fixing process.
If the problem is in the plumbing pipes, I will not recommend fixing it on your own. It is better to call a professional. Since buying plumbing pipes can be expensive. Therefore, only a professional should deal with them and install them with efficacy.
Second, you require a few materials and tools too, such as utility sink, faucet, plumber's putty, compression nut, replacement trap, and bucket. Tools like Allen wrench, slip joint pliers, adjustable pipe wrench, screwdriver, and a torch (in some cases) are essential and can be helpful too.
Steps to Fix a utility Sink
Below is the simple guide to fixing your utility sink.
Step #1
Shutoff the main water supply lines and remove the stopper too. It is better to turn off the main line rather than shutting off the valve from the under the sink, as it can create the mess while removing the parts.
Step #2:
Start removing the nut from underneath your sink. Bear in mind, it won't be that straightforward to loosen it, as you may need to hold the centerpiece of the pipeline for this process. It can shake them both if you are applying force on it through a tool. Besides, some sinks have a lock ring and washers with the nut as well. You need to take both of them off too.
Step #3:
Take the existing drain out of the sink and replace it with a new drain assembly piece. It is better to use plumber's putty or sealant on it. Once the drain is inside, put the nuts, rings, and washers back on their place and tighten them with the help of pliers.
This is all you need to do if the utility sink is clogged.
Now, in case you have the leakage issue, you have to work on the faucet handle, instead of replacing the existing drain.
Step #1
Remove the handle with the help of Allen wrench and unscrew the screw to loosen the lock nut and take it out.
Step #2:
Take off all the small parts and components, such as locking clips and etc. Once all the parts and components are removed, take out the cartridge. The damage of cartridge is the actual reason for leakages. If you don't know what's the cartridge, it looks like a cylinder.
Step #3:
Get the new cartridge from a local hardware store and install it back in the faucet mechanism. Next, put back all the small components and the handle in the reverse process.
This should fix your leakage issues too.
Concluding Thoughts
We know it looks daunting, and you need to remove the sink as well, which depends on the cause of damage. But, if you are a handyman by nature and if you have a little DIY experience, you can fix it without any trouble, and quickly as well.
In addition, the best thing is you don't need any extra hand. You can do the entire process on your own without any trouble.
