Replace a basin pop-up waste

Swap a leaking or worn basin pop-up waste for a new one, test it, and tidy up in one session.

PW-01Clear the area and get set upEmpty the cupboard under the basin and lay an old towel or dust sheet down to catch drips. Put a bucket underneath the trap to catch any water still sitting in the pipework. Have all your tools and the new waste kit within reach before you start.

1 each · Old towel or dust sheet

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1 each · Bucket

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PW-02Disconnect the trapLoosen the nuts connecting the trap to the tailpiece of the old waste using an adjustable spanner. Turn slowly, there will be a small amount of standing water inside, so let it drain into the bucket. Set the trap aside; you'll reuse it if it's in good condition.

1 each · Adjustable spanner

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PW-03Remove the old pop-up wasteUnclip or unscrew the pivot rod that operates the plug, then undo the large locknut underneath the basin holding the waste body in place. A basin wrench makes this easier if space is tight. Lift the old waste assembly out through the plughole from above.

1 each · Basin wrench

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PW-04Clean the basin holeScrape away all old putty, silicone or old washer material from around the plughole using a plastic scraper or old cloth. Wipe the area clean and dry. A greasy or crusty surface will stop the new seal working properly.

1 each · Cloth

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1 each · Plastic scraper

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PW-05Fit the new waste from aboveRun a thin, even bead of plumber's putty or silicone sealant around the underside of the new waste flange. Push it into the plughole from above and press down firmly so it beds in evenly. Wipe away any excess that squeezes out around the rim straight away.

1 each · Pop-up basin waste kit

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1 tube · Plumber's putty or silicone sealant

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PW-06Secure from underneathWorking under the basin, slide the rubber washer up against the underside, then screw on the locknut. Tighten by hand first, then give it a final quarter turn with the spanner, holding the waste steady from above so it doesn't spin out of position.

PW-07Fit the pop-up rod and leverFeed the pop-up plug rod down through the waste body from above so it sits in the slot at the base. Underneath, push the pivot rod through the side of the waste and thread it through the lift rod's clevis, then tighten the small retaining screw. Check the plug lifts and drops when you move the lever on top.

PW-08Reconnect the trapPush the trap back onto the tailpiece and hand-tighten both nuts, then add a quarter turn with the spanner, no more. Wrap a couple of turns of PTFE tape around any threaded joints if the fitting feels loose or has worn threads.

1 roll · PTFE tape

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PW-09Test for leaks and check the plugPut the plug down, fill the basin fully, then pull the plug up and let it drain while you watch every joint underneath. Check the flange seal, the locknut, and both trap connections for drips. If anything leaks, tighten it a little more; don't overtighten plastic fittings as they can crack.

PW-10Tidy upWipe down the basin, cupboard and floor with a cloth to remove any spilled water or putty. Bag up the old waste and packaging for disposal. Put your tools away and refill the cupboard.

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