Kitchen sink drain flange removal: the step-by-step guide to solve your clogged drain woes

A clogged kitchen sink is an all-too-common household problem. If you’re dealing with slow drainage or standing water, you may wonder if removing the drain flange is necessary. The answer is yes, removing the drain flange can be a helpful step in unclogging your sink.

What is a Drain Flange?

A drain flange is a circular metal or plastic piece that connects the sink drain to the plumbing system. It has a rubber gasket that creates a watertight seal.

Why Remove the Drain Flange?

Removing the drain flange allows you to access the drainpipe and remove any blockages. Common causes of clogs include food particles, grease, hair, and debris.

Tools You’ll Need

• Plumber’s putty knife or flat-head screwdriver
• Adjustable wrench or pliers
• Bucket or bowl
• Rags or paper towels

Step-by-Step Guide to Removing the Drain Flange

1. Prepare the Sink: Turn off the water supply to the sink and place a bucket or bowl underneath to catch any water that may leak out.

2. Remove the Stopper: If your sink has a pop-up stopper, remove it by pressing down on the stopper and twisting it counterclockwise.

3. Locate the Flange: The drain flange is located at the bottom of the drain opening. It’s usually held in place by one or two screws.

4. Loosen the Screws: Using an adjustable wrench or pliers, loosen the screws that secure the flange. Do not remove them completely.

5. Pry the Flange Loose: Insert the plumber’s putty knife or flat-head screwdriver under the edge of the flange and gently pry it loose. Be careful not to damage the gasket.

6. Remove the Flange: Once the flange is loose, lift it up and remove it from the drain opening.

7. Clean the Drainpipe: Use a flashlight to inspect the drainpipe for any blockages. If you see any debris, use a drain snake or auger to remove it.

Reinstalling the Drain Flange

1. Clean the Flange and Gasket: Wipe down the flange and gasket with a clean rag or paper towel.

2. Apply Plumber’s Putty: Apply a thin layer of plumber’s putty around the outside edge of the gasket.

3. Position the Flange: Place the flange back into the drain opening and align it with the screws.

4. Tighten the Screws: Use the wrench or pliers to tighten the screws that secure the flange. Do not overtighten.

5. Reinstall the Stopper: If you removed a pop-up stopper, insert it back into the drain opening and tighten the screw.

6. Turn on the Water: Turn the water supply back on and check for leaks.

Other Causes of Clogs

If removing the drain flange doesn‘t solve the clog, there may be other underlying issues. Consider checking:

• P-Trap: The P-trap is the curved pipe under the sink. It can trap food particles and debris.
• Garbage Disposal: If you have a garbage disposal, check for clogs in the disposal unit or its discharge hose.
• Main Sewer Line: A clogged main sewer line can cause backups in multiple drains.

Recommendations: Unclogging Your Kitchen Sink with Confidence

By following these steps, you can remove the kitchen sink drain flange and unclog your sink effectively. Remember to troubleshoot other potential causes of clogs if necessary. With a little patience and perseverance, you can restore your sink to its pristine condition.

Questions We Hear a Lot

Q: Can I remove the drain flange without removing the sink?
A: Yes, in most cases, you can remove the drain flange without removing the sink. However, if the flange is difficult to access, you may need to detach the sink from the countertop.

Q: What should I do if I can’t remove the screws that secure the flange?
A: If the screws are rusted or stuck, you may need to use a penetrating oil to loosen them. Apply the oil and let it sit for a few minutes before attempting to remove the screws.

Q: How often should I clean the drain flange?
A: It’s recommended to clean the drain flange and gasket regularly to prevent clogs and ensure proper drainage. You can do this by removing the flange and wiping it down with a clean cloth.