How to Plug a Sink

Most sinks come with their own plugs that come in handy when washing dishes. Unfortunately, these plugs aren't strong enough to hold back sewage in areas prone to heavy flooding. While sinks in newer homes are equipped with backwater valves, owners of older homes may need to purchase special equipment to keep potential backflow problems in check. Homeowners in areas with high flood risk should be prepared to plug their sinks when notified by city officials.

Things You'll Need

• Adjustable wrench
• Threaded cap

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Instructions

1. • 1

     Choose a threaded cap that will fit over your sink's drain pipe. You can purchase a threaded cap from most hardware stores or home improvement centers.

   • 2

     Climb under your sink and unscrew the drain pipe (the horizontal part right after the U-bend), using the adjustable wrench to turn counterclockwise.

   • 3

     Screw a threaded cap over the drain outlet. Screw it in securely, turning clockwise, but don't over-tighten.