Quick Answer:
If a sink stopper stopped working right after you installed a new faucet, most likely a linkage clip or the pop-up rod was bumped during the install. Start by looking under the sink: re-check the linkage and reconnect any loose clips, then test the stopper operation before doing anything else.
Why This Happens
When you install a new faucet you work around the drain and the pop-up mechanism. The pivot rod, lift rod, and small retaining clips that control the stopper sit close to the faucet tailpiece. It’s easy to nudge a clip out of place, loosen a pivot nut, or bend the strap without noticing. That misalignment means the stopper won’t transfer motion properly or will sit off-center and not seal.
If the lift or pivot parts are bent, the stopper may not seat or may move unevenly. In other cases, debris or a shifted pivot pin prevents smooth movement. If the stopper won’t close, the issue is usually mechanical at the linkage, not a sudden clog. You may also see related symptoms like a slow drain or water backing up.
You may find it helpful to check common failure modes such as a loose clip, a backed-out pivot rod, or a slipped strap—these are quick fixes you can often do yourself. If you want more detail on a specific symptom, check the guide for Pop-up stopper won’t close.
Step-by-Step What to Do
Step 1 — Prepare and look under the sink
- Clear the cabinet and put a small bucket or towel under the drain to catch drips.
- Turn on the faucet and operate the lift rod while watching the linkage to see what moves and what doesn’t.
- If you have a garbage disposal, ensure it is switched off and, if needed, disconnect power at the breaker before working close to it.
Step 2 — Re-check under-sink linkage after faucet install and reconnect any loose clips
- Locate the pivot rod that enters the drain body and the horizontal strap attached to the lift rod.
- Look for the small retaining clip or spring clip where the pivot rod meets the strap. If it’s loose or missing, slide the pivot rod so the hole lines up with the strap and replace or reseat the clip.
- Tighten the pivot nut by hand until snug; do not over-tighten. The rod should move freely but without wobble.
Step 3 — Test the stopper and adjust
- Operate the lift rod up and down to confirm the stopper lifts and lowers smoothly.
- If the stopper doesn’t fully seal, move the pivot rod in or out a bit and retest until the stopper seats correctly.
- If the strap holes offer different positions, try a different hole for finer adjustment.
Step 4 — Inspect the stopper and pivot pin
- Remove the stopper (if needed) and check for mineral build-up or debris that prevents a seal.
- Clean the stopper and the drain opening. Reinstall and retest the linkage adjustment.
Step 5 — Final check and leak test
- Run water and operate the stopper several times to confirm consistent motion and a good seal.
- Look for any new drips around the pivot nut, tailpiece, or drain flange after adjustment.
What Not to Do
- Do not assume the new faucet caused a clog—check for bumped linkage connections.
- Do not force the parts. Forcing a stripped clip or a corroded pivot rod can break small parts and make repair harder.
- Do not remove or cut parts you don’t recognize. If a clip won’t seat, you may need a replacement rather than improvising with the wrong piece.
If you see persistent water running through the drain despite adjustments, read more about related problems like Stopper leaks water constantly.
When to Call a Professional
- If linkage pieces are corroded, snapped, or missing and you can’t source the correct replacement.
- If adjusting the linkage causes steady leaks at the drain flange or tailpiece that you can’t stop.
- If the drain assembly underneath is damaged or you’re uncomfortable working beneath the sink or around electrical connections for a disposal.
Safety Notes
- Turn off water supply valves if you need to disconnect any drain parts.
- If you must work near a garbage disposal, switch it off at the breaker; don’t rely on the wall switch alone.
- Use eye protection and gloves when working under the sink. Small clips and parts can spring loose.
- Work slowly and keep the area well lit; dropped parts inside the cabinet are common and can be retrieved if you take your time.
Common Homeowner Questions
- Why did the stopper stop working right after I tightened the faucet? Tightening or moving the faucet can nudge the strap or clip under the sink; re-check the linkage and seating of the pivot rod.
- Can I replace the clip myself? Yes — retaining clips are inexpensive and usually easy to replace; buy a matching clip if the original is damaged.
- What if the stopper is still sticky after adjustment? Remove and clean the stopper and channel; mineral deposits often cause sticky operation and cleaning usually fixes it.