Introduction
A drain stopper is an important part of any bathroom sink. It helps to prevent water from draining away too quickly and also prevents unwanted items such as hair and debris from entering the plumbing system. Removing the drain stopper can be a tricky task, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be done relatively easily.
In this article, we will discuss why it is important to remove the drain stopper and then provide a step-by-step guide on how to do so. We will cover the use of pliers or a wrench to loosen the drain stopper, unscrewing the pop-up lever to remove it, using a screwdriver or Allen wrench to take it out, pulling out the hair and debris that is clogging it, using a plunger to disconnect it, applying heat to loosen it, and using a drain claw to remove it.
Use Pliers or a Wrench to Loosen the Drain Stopper
Before attempting to remove the drain stopper, you will need to identify where it is located. The drain stopper is typically located on the underside of the sink. Once you have located it, you will need to use either pliers or a wrench to loosen it.
Using pliers, grip the sides of the stopper and twist it counter-clockwise until it loosens. If you are using a wrench, place the jaws of the wrench around the stopper and turn it counter-clockwise until it loosens.
Unscrew the Pop-Up Lever to Remove the Drain Stopper
Once the stopper is loosened, you will need to unscrew the pop-up lever to remove the drain stopper. The pop-up lever is located on the top side of the sink, near the faucet. To unscrew the lever, you will need to use a flathead screwdriver or an Allen wrench.
Using a flathead screwdriver, insert the tip into the slot in the lever and rotate it counter-clockwise until it comes off. If you are using an Allen wrench, insert the end of the wrench into the slot in the lever and turn it counter-clockwise until it comes off.
Use a Screwdriver or Allen Wrench to Take Out the Drain Stopper
Once the pop-up lever has been removed, you can now use a screwdriver or Allen wrench to take out the drain stopper. Insert the end of the tool into the hole in the stopper and turn it counter-clockwise until it comes out.
Pull Out the Hair and Debris That Is Clogging the Drain Stopper
Sometimes, hair and other debris can become lodged in the drain stopper, causing it to become clogged. To remove this debris, use a pair of pliers or tweezers to pull it out. Be sure to wear gloves when doing this, as the debris may contain bacteria.
Use a Plunger to Disconnect the Drain Stopper
If the drain stopper is still stuck, you can try using a plunger to help loosen it. Place the plunger over the drain opening and press down firmly several times. This should help to loosen the stopper and allow you to remove it more easily.
Apply Heat to Loosen the Drain Stopper
If the plunger does not work, you can try applying heat to the stopper to help loosen it. Use a hair dryer or a heat gun to apply heat to the stopper for a few minutes. This should help to loosen it and allow you to remove it more easily.
Use a Drain Claw to Remove the Drain Stopper
The last resort is to use a drain claw to remove the stopper. A drain claw is a special tool used to remove stubborn drain stoppers. Insert the claws of the tool into the holes in the stopper and twist them counter-clockwise until the stopper comes out.
Conclusion
Removing a drain stopper from a bathroom sink can be a tricky task, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be done relatively easily. This article provided a step-by-step guide on how to do so, covering the use of pliers or a wrench to loosen the drain stopper, unscrewing the pop-up lever to remove it, using a screwdriver or Allen wrench to take it out, pulling out the hair and debris that is clogging it, using a plunger to disconnect it, applying heat to loosen it, and using a drain claw to remove it.
