Sink Repair Essentials: Fixing Leaks, Clogs & Drips
Have you ever watched water pool under your kitchen sink and felt your heart sink too? Or been haunted by the steady drip-drip-drip from the bathroom faucet at night? You’re not alone. Sink troubles strike without warning. They disrupt dinner, sleep, and peace of mind.
At McIntosh Plumbing, we’ve seen every kind of sink headache. Our team handles everything from urgent leaks to stubborn clogs, offering emergency plumbing services 24/7. Here’s what you need to know to get your sink back in shape — safely, quickly, and with confidence.
Sink Leak Diagnosis 🕵️
Leaks sneak up on homeowners. Sometimes, it’s a tiny puddle. Sometimes, it’s a steady stream. Knowing what to look for speeds up repairs and helps prevent bigger issues.
Common Causes
- Loose connections: Vibrations and daily use can loosen nuts and fittings.
- Worn washers or gaskets: These rubber parts crack over time, letting water escape.
- Corroded pipes: Old metal pipes can rust through or develop pinhole leaks.
- Cracked sink basins: Hairline cracks in porcelain or enamel let water seep down.
How to Spot a Leak
- Check under the sink for dampness, water stains, or moldy smells.
- Inspect the faucet base and handles for beads of water.
- Feel around pipe joints and shutoff valves — are they dry?
- Run the water and watch for drips from supply lines or traps.
Tip: Place a dry paper towel under pipes and watch for wet spots after running water.
Diagram: Typical Sink Plumbing
Faucet
|
[Supply Lines]
|
Shutoff
|
[Trap]
|
Drain Pipe
Clearing Clogs
Nothing ruins a morning like a slow-draining sink. Most clogs are caused by everyday items — soap, hair, grease, or stray bits of food. But not all clogs are created equal.
Easy Fixes
- Boiling water: Pour slowly to dissolve greasy build-up.
- Plunger: Create a tight seal and plunge with short, sharp thrusts.
- Zip-it tool: This plastic barbed strip grabs hair and gunk from the drain.
Harder Blockages
If water backs up instantly or you hear bubbling from other drains, the clog may be in the main line. This is a sign to stop and call in an emergency plumbing professional. Trying to force a clog further down can make things worse.
Diagram: Trap and Common Clog Points
Sink Basin
|
[P-Trap] <--- most clogs here
|
Wall Pipe
Fixing Drips
A dripping faucet is like money down the drain, one drop at a time. Even a slow drip can waste gallons a day and raise your water bill.
What Causes Drips?
- Worn washers: The most common culprit, especially in older faucets.
- Cartridge or ceramic disc wear: Modern faucets rely on these parts to stop water flow.
- Loose faucet parts: Over time, screws and seals can loosen.
Basic Fix: Washer or Cartridge Replacement
- Turn off the water at the shutoff valves.
- Remove the faucet handle (usually with a small screw).
- Take out the old washer or cartridge.
- Match it at a hardware store (bring the old part).
- Reassemble and test.
Tip: If the handle is stuck, don’t force it. Tools can slip and crack the fixture.
When to Replace Parts 🛠️
Some sink issues are like a tired car — a quick fix works for a while, but sometimes, replacement is safer and smarter. Here’s when to swap out old parts:
- Repeated leaks from the same spot, even after tightening or replacing washers.
- Visible corrosion on pipes or fittings.
- Cracked faucet bodies or handles that wobble, even after tightening.
- Persistent clogs despite cleaning the trap and using safe drain cleaners.
Faucet Replacement Basics
- Choose a faucet that matches your sink’s hole pattern (one, two, or three holes).
- Shut off water and disconnect supply lines.
- Remove the old faucet and clean the area.
- Install the new faucet following manufacturer instructions.
Tip: Always use plumber’s tape on threaded connections to prevent leaks.
Quick Safety Checklist
Before you start any repair, remember:
- Turn off the water supply under the sink.
- Unplug electrical appliances nearby (hairdryers, garbage disposals).
- Wear gloves to protect hands from sharp edges.
- Keep a bucket or towels handy for spills.
- If you smell gas or see sparks, stop and call a professional immediately.
DIY vs. Call a Pro
It’s tempting to tackle every problem yourself. Some fixes are simple, others can spiral out of control. Here’s how to decide:
DIY-Friendly
- Replacing washers, cartridges, or faucet aerators.
- Clearing simple clogs with a plunger or drain tool.
- Tightening visible fittings.
Call a Pro
- Leaks behind walls or under floors.
- Signs of water damage, bulging cabinets, or mold.
- Repeated clogs or slow drains throughout the home.
- Pipe corrosion or rust flakes in water.
- Gas smells near sinks with gas lines for stoves or heaters.
Remember: Plumbing codes and safety regulations (see International Plumbing Code or your local authority) exist for a reason. Some repairs require permits or inspection.
What Pros Do On Arrival
When a McIntosh Plumbing technician arrives, you get more than a quick fix. Here’s our approach:
- Assessment: We examine the entire system — supply, drain, venting.
- Leak detection: Using moisture sensors and inspection cameras.
- Clog removal: Professional augers and safe, non-damaging methods.
- Repair or replace: Quality parts installed to code.
- Testing: We run water, check all connections, and ensure no drips or blockages remain.
No guesswork. No “I think it’s fixed.” Just clear results.
Prevention & Maintenance
A little care keeps sink problems away:
- Don’t pour grease, coffee grounds, or food scraps down the drain.
- Use strainers to catch hair and debris.
- Clean aerators and traps every few months.
- Check under sinks for dampness during cleaning.
- Schedule annual plumbing inspections and leak detection.
If you’re considering water filtration systems near you, ask about models that protect pipes from mineral build-up.
Costs & Time Factors
Sink repairs range from a quick 10-minute fix to more involved jobs needing hours. Factors that affect cost and timing:
- Part prices: Basic washers cost less than cartridges or new faucets.
- Access: Tight spaces and old plumbing take longer to work on.
- Severity: Simple leaks vs. corrosion or broken pipes.
- Emergency plumbing calls: After-hours or weekend visits may cost more.
Always ask for an estimate before work begins.
When It’s an Emergency 🚨
Some sink issues can’t wait:
- Water flooding cabinets or floors.
- Sewage odors or backflow into the sink.
- No water flow at all.
- Gas smells or hissing near the sink.
In these cases, shut off the main water supply (know where your shutoff is!) and call for emergency plumbing help right away.
FAQ
What’s the easiest way to find a leak under the sink?
Dry everything off, then lay a paper towel beneath the pipes. Run the faucet and watch for drips or damp spots.
Can I use chemical drain cleaners?
Use with caution. Some chemicals damage pipes and seals. Try mechanical methods first — plunger, drain snake, or a baking soda/vinegar mix.
How often should I replace faucet washers or cartridges?
Washers may last a few years, while cartridges can go 5–10 years. Dripping is a sign it’s time for a swap.
Will a new faucet fit my sink?
Check the hole pattern (number and spacing) before buying. Most modern sinks use standard sizes, but always measure first.
Local/Seasonal Considerations
If you live in an area with hard water, mineral build-up can clog aerators and shorten faucet life. Installing a water filtration system near you can extend the life of your sink and prevent chalky build-up.
In winter, pipes under sinks near outside walls can freeze. Open cabinet doors on cold nights and let a trickle of water run to prevent freezing.
Don’t let a leaky, clogged, or dripping sink disrupt your home. For fast, reliable sink repair, Call McIntosh Plumbing now — or reach us anytime at 888-835-0389 .