The Ultimate Guide to Pop Up Drain Spouts and Sink Stoppers

Author

Posted Oct 30, 2024

Reads 561

From above of crop anonymous person taking cellphone while demonstrating pop up window on blurred screen with application logos and having books on bed sheet
Credit: pexels.com, From above of crop anonymous person taking cellphone while demonstrating pop up window on blurred screen with application logos and having books on bed sheet

Pop up drain spouts and sink stoppers are a game-changer for any kitchen or bathroom.

They make it easy to clean your sink and drain, and can be a huge time-saver.

With a pop up drain spout, you can simply lift the spout to pour down large objects, and then let it spring back into place when you're done.

This design is especially useful for people who struggle with heavy or bulky items.

Installing a Pop Up Drain Spout

Installing a pop up drain spout is a relatively straightforward process that can be completed with the right tools and a bit of patience.

First, turn off the water supply to the sink by locating the shut-off valves under the sink and turning them clockwise.

Next, disconnect the P-trap from the drain pipe by loosening the slip nuts that hold it in place.

To access the old drain spout, you'll need to remove the escutcheon ring that covers the drain hole. This ring is usually held in place by a screw or clip.

The new pop up drain spout should come with a mounting clip that attaches to the sink's mounting holes.

Place the mounting clip over the sink's mounting holes and screw it into place.

Troubleshooting and Maintenance

Credit: youtube.com, Stuck Pop Up Drain Stopper | Get it Working Like New Again!

Expect to search the yard for the pop up after a thunderstorm, as it may pop up after heavy rainfall.

Freezing is a concern with this system, as it can cause the pop up to freeze shut. A neighbor of smijal's who has this system installed reported that it froze shut on him when buried by snow.

You can take steps to prevent this, such as placing a "U" shaped wedge to keep the pop up open, or covering the whole emitter with an old bucket.

Leaves can clog up the system, but this shouldn't be a problem if you don't have trees nearby. As mrjfleming noted, you can easily remove the pop ups and clean them out if they do get clogged.

Mount the pop ups a little high so the grass doesn't overgrow them in a few years. If you're unsure, try a few and see how you like them - they're not very expensive.

Credit: youtube.com, How Do I Fix a Stuck Push Down Sink Plug | 4 Ways To Free Pop Up Plug

Here are some tips for maintaining your pop up drain spout:

  • Keep an eye out for leaves and debris that might clog the system
  • Regularly check the pop ups to make sure they're still functioning properly
  • Consider using a "U" shaped wedge or covering the emitter with a bucket to prevent freezing

By following these tips, you can help ensure that your pop up drain spout continues to work effectively and efficiently.

Sink Stopper Options

For a pop-up drain spout, you'll want to choose a sink stopper that complements its functionality.

A good option is a lift-and-turn stopper, which is often included with the pop-up drain spout.

This type of stopper is typically made of a durable material and has a smooth operation, making it easy to use and clean.

Sink Stopper Finishes

Sink stoppers are available in different metal finishes for the visible drain ring and stopper to match your faucet hardware.

You can choose from a variety of metal finishes, such as chrome, brass, or stainless steel, to match your faucet hardware.

Professional plumbers often prefer metal assemblies because they are more durable, but they can be more expensive.

Plastic pop-up assemblies are generally acceptable for DIYers, though they can be slightly prone to breakage if you over-tighten the nuts during installation.

Metal assemblies can be more expensive, but they are also more durable and can last longer.

A metal assembly can be a good choice if you want a more premium look and feel for your sink.

Sink Stoppers: Traditional vs Spring-Loaded

Credit: youtube.com, Sink Stopper - Hibbent Upgraded 3 in 1 Universal Kitchen Sink Drain Strainer and Stopper Combo

Traditional sink stoppers use a lift rod, pivot rod, and internal ball to lift and lower the stopper. They're a bit more complicated to install compared to some other options.

Spring-loaded sink stoppers, on the other hand, are pretty easy to install and don't require any pivot parts. They're similar to the drain stoppers found in bathtubs.

To open and close a spring-loaded stopper, you simply push down on the stopper from inside the sink. This action locks the stopper in the closed position, and a subsequent push releases the stopper and allows the internal spring to push it back up to the open position.

The main disadvantage of spring-loaded stoppers is that they require you to reach through standing water to release the stopper and drain the sink.

Drain Stopper Parts

The pop-up drain stopper has several key parts that work together to open and close the drain.

The clevis, also called a clevis strap or strap, connects the sink's pop-up drain to the lift rod that operates the drain.

Credit: youtube.com, ✅Best Drain Sink Stopper Replacement | Cheap Easy Solution to a Broken or Lost Drain Stopper

The clevis screw is a crucial part that keeps the clevis tightened to the lift rod.

The lift rod is usually located right behind the faucet and is the part that opens and closes the pop-up drain.

The pivot rod, also called a ball or horizontal rod, transfers vertical motion to the drain stopper when the lift rod goes up or down.

Here are the primary parts of a pop-up drain assembly:

  • Clevis
  • Clevis Screw
  • Lift Rod
  • Pivot Rod
  • Spring Clip

The spring clip attaches the pivot rod to the clevis, keeping everything securely in place.

The Stopper Doesn't

If the stopper doesn't pop up when the lift rod is depressed, try this. You'll need a can of WD-40 lubricating spray and a pair of slip-joint pliers.

First, pinch the spring clip and move the pivot rod down one hole in the clevis. This might just do the trick.

If that didn't work, loosen the clevis screw with slip-joint pliers, pull the clevis down until the stopper pops up, and tighten the clevis screw again. This is a more involved fix, but it can be effective.

If you're working in a tight space, keep in mind that you'll be removing everything under your sink cabinet to make this easier.

Materials and Parts

Credit: youtube.com, How to Install POP UP EMITTER - 3 Ways - 2 kinds of pipe - Best Outflow for Yard Drainage

To fix or install a pop-up drain spout, you'll need the right materials and an understanding of its parts.

The pop-up drain assembly requires a pop-up drain assembly, pipe joint compound, and plumber's putty.

The primary parts of a pop-up drain assembly include the clevis, clevis screw, lift rod, pivot rod, and spring clip.

The clevis connects the sink's pop-up drain to the lift rod that operates the drain.

The clevis screw keeps the clevis tightened to the lift rod, usually located at the top of the clevis.

The lift rod is the part that opens and closes the pop-up drain, often found right behind the faucet.

The pivot rod transfers vertical motion to the drain stopper when the lift rod goes up or down.

The spring clip attaches the pivot rod to the clevis, holding it in place.

Here are the main parts of a pop-up drain assembly:

Frequently Asked Questions

How deep can a pop-up drain emitter be?

A pop-up drain emitter should be installed only a few inches underground to ensure proper water flow and drainage. This shallow depth allows water to be easily forced upward from the pipe to exit the drain.

How do you run a pop up drain?

To run a pop-up drain, pull up on the lift rod to close it and test the seal, then push it down to drain the sink. Adjust the pivot rod as needed for smooth operation.

Ella Paolini

Writer

Ella Paolini is a seasoned writer and blogger with a passion for sharing her expertise on various topics, from lifestyle to travel. With over five years of experience in the industry, she has honed her writing skills and developed a unique voice that resonates with readers. As an avid traveler, Ella has explored many parts of the world, immersing herself in new cultures and experiences.

Love What You Read? Stay Updated!

Join our community for insights, tips, and more.