Sink drains are a necessary evil in any home. They’re there to catch the water that overflows from sinks, tubs, and toilets. But sometimes, these pipes come out of walls instead of the floor.
This happens when a plumbing contractor installs a new bathroom or kitchen sink without first removing the old one. This is a common mistake, and it’s easy to fix.
How to Remove a Sink Drain Pipe Coming Out of Wall
Step 1: Turn off the water supply to the sink.
If you can’t turn off the main shutoff valve, then open all valves on the drain pipe until they close by themselves.
Step 2: Remove the faucet handles.
Turn off the cold-water supply line at the wall. Then remove the handle for the hot-water supply line.
Step 3: Pull the handle up and away from the wall.
Pulling the handle will release the hose clamp holding the pipe to the wall.
Step 4: Unscrew the nut and washer.
Unscrew the nut that holds the pipe to the wall.
Step 5: Pull the handle down and away from the wall until it pops free.
Pull the pipe away from the wall. You may need to use an adjustable wrench.
Step 6: Remove the old pipe.
Remove the old pipe. It should be held in place with a metal clip. If not, loosen the screws that hold the clip in place.
Step 7: Replace the new pipe.
Replace the new pipe. Make sure the ends match. The new pipe should have a rubber gasket around its base.
Step 8: Tighten the nut and washer back into place.
Reattach the nut and washer to the wall. Screw them tight enough so that the pipe won’t move.
Step 9: Reattach the faucets.
Reattach the faucets to their respective hoses.
Step 10: Test your work.
Test your work by turning the spigot on and off several times.
Step 10: Turn on the water supply to the sink again.
If everything looks good, turn on the water supply again.
Step 11: Test the sink drain pipe to see if it drains properly.
Check to make sure the pipe drains properly before using the sink.
Step 12: Call a Plumber
If you’re still having problems after following these steps, call a plumber.
FAQs
Q: What does a “pop-out” mean?
A: When a sink drain pipe comes out of a wall, it means that the pipe came loose during installation. The problem usually occurs because the installer didn’t tighten all of the screws holding the pipe in place.
Q: Is it safe to use a hammer to remove a sink drain pipe coming out of a wall?
A: Yes! If you don’t have access to a pry bar (a long, thin tool), then you can use a hammer instead. Just be sure not to hit the pipe too hard. You could crack the pipe, which would require expensive repairs.
Q: How do I know if my sink drain pipe is leaking?
A: There are several ways to check for leaks. One way is to turn on the cold water tap at your sink. If water starts to leak out of the pipe, then you probably need to replace the pipe. Another way is to put food coloring in the sink. If the color seeps through the pipe, then you’ll need to replace the pipe as well.
Q: Can I install a new sink drain pipe myself?
A: No. It’s best to hire a professional who knows how to safely install a new pipe.
Q: Do I need to disconnect the hot and cold water lines before installing a new sink drain pipe?
A: Yes. Disconnecting the two lines will prevent scalding injuries.
Q: Why should I hire a professional plumber to install a new sink drain pipeline?
A: A trained plumber has tools that make the job easier and safer than DIYers. He also knows how to correctly align the pipe so that it doesn’t leak.
Q: Should I buy a new sink drain pipe every time I replace a toilet or bathtub?
A: No, this isn’t necessary. Most manufacturers recommend replacing only the part of the pipe that is damaged.
Q: What kind of materials are used to make sink drain pipes?
A: Some types of sink drain pipes are made with copper while others are made with cast iron. Cast iron pipes tend to last longer than copper ones.
Q: How much does it cost to replace a sink drain pipe?
A: Replacement costs vary depending on where you live. In some areas, it may cost less than $100.