How to Fix a Leaking Sink P-Trap
Time required: 15-30 mins · Difficulty 1/5
Est. DIY Parts: $5 - $15 · Pro Service: $150 - $220 · Est. Savings: $135 - $215
* Estimates based on regional/national contractor rate benchmarks. Actual part prices vary by brand and retailer.
Parts & Tools You'll Need
- 1-1/2 in. Rubber Slip-Joint Washer (2-Pack)
- 1-1/2 in. Plastic P-Trap Repair Kit
- PTFE Thread Seal Tape
- Adjustable Wrench or Channel-Lock Pliers
- Bucket
- Flashlight or Headlamp
Step-by-Step Manual
- Shut off the water and clear the cabinet Turn off the shutoff valves under the sink (or the main water valve if there are none). Clear everything out from under the sink and place a bucket directly under the P-trap.
- Loosen the slip nuts By hand (or with pliers if they're stuck), turn the slip nuts on both ends of the P-trap counter-clockwise to loosen them.
- Remove the trap and inspect it Slide the trap down and off the pipes. Check the rubber washers inside each slip nut — cracked, flattened, or hardened washers are almost always the cause of the leak.
- Clean the pipe threads Wipe down the threaded ends of the tailpiece and drain pipe. Remove any old tape, debris, or mineral buildup so the new washers can seat properly.
- Install new washers and reassemble Place the new rubber washers into the slip nuts with the beveled side facing the pipe. Slide the trap back into position and hand-tighten the slip nuts.
- Snug the nuts and test for leaks Turn the nuts an additional quarter-turn with pliers — don't overtighten, plastic nuts crack easily. Turn the water back on, run the faucet, and check every joint for drips.