Everyone wants to make avoiding or dealing with a clogged kitchen drain as easy as possible. But most people overlook drain strainers, which is ironic because they are the very thing that ensures this.
We know that choosing the best drain strainer is not an easy task. So don’t worry; we’ve covered most of the factors to consider when buying a drain filter in this buying guide to help you find a drain filter manufacturer you’ll be happy with. Plus, we’ve addressed some of the most frequently asked questions about these kitchen accessories.
1. What is a drain strainer?
A kitchen sink drain strainer is a device located in your kitchen sink drain line that prevents food particles and other types of debris from entering the pipe system. It is usually made of metal or plastic, but can also be made of other materials such as stainless steel, copper, or zinc. Kitchen sink strainers are usually inserted into a hole in the bottom of the sink that is drilled for this purpose.
2. Types of sink drain strainer
Sink strainers come in different forms, but they all perform the same function: filter out large particles and keep your kitchen drains clear.
1) Rear nut filter
Back nut strainers, as the name suggests, are fixed to the back nut, so installation and maintenance are simple. You can also easily turn it on both sides to clear any stuck debris.
2) Flange filter
Since the flange filter is one of the most effective sink strainers, it is a premium filter type. In addition to debris, this model also blocks water; the rubber rims are activated by simply pressing a nut.
3) Plug filter
Like flange strainers, plug strainers have a rubber ring on the bottom to stop water. Aside from being easy to install, it is also very durable.
4) Drainage filter
A drain filter is highly selective for foreign matter passing through it because it has very small pores. So it’s safe to say that this filter type is the best option to avoid even the slightest clog.
5)Double cup filter
The double cup filter has the same level of anti-clog performance as the drain filter. Additionally, it features a support nut and two filter bowls, making it difficult for any large debris to pass through. Due to its ergonomic design, this model is very easy to install, adjust, and clean.
6) Liquid level filter
This is one of the simplest strainers you will ever come across. It doesn’t use a special mechanism to prevent debris from entering the kitchen drain system – it just uses a simple rubber screen.
3. Buying a Sink Filter: Factors to Consider
Sink strainers are similar to machine tools in that you need to find the right filter to work properly. There are several factors that can influence your purchasing decision, some of which we’ll discuss below:
1) Material
Sink strainers made of stainless steel, silver, or plastic are usually best. The most common is stainless steel, followed by plastic. You can choose any of these sink strain materials as they are rust-resistant and easy to clean. Plastic sink strainers are easier to clean than metal units and there is no chance of rust. They are also less likely to cause damage to ceramic or metal sinks during installation or cleaning.
If you prefer a stainless steel sink strainer but are concerned about damage to your sink, consider a sink strainer with a built-in sink protector. This feature is usually made of silicone and its main purpose is to prevent the stainless steel filter from scratching the sink.
2) Size
Sink strainers and sinks come in a variety of sizes. Therefore, before buying a basket strainer, measure the diameter of your sink and choose a sink strainer that goes with it. It is crucial to choose the right sink filter to prevent solids from leaking into your drainage system.
3) Mesh or porous filter
Choosing between these filter options can come down to personal preference. Mesh strainers have a large number of small holes that are very effective at preventing food particles from clogging your drain lines. You should, however, be aware that this makes cleaning them very difficult.
Porous strainers, on the other hand, have larger pores that block relatively larger food particles but are easier to clean.
4) Easy to clean
No one wants to sweat and waste time cleaning a basket sink strainer, which is why dishwasher-compatible models are available. However, even if you can’t afford such a model, choose a sink filter that is easy to clean.
The size of the holes on the easy-to-clean filter makes it easy to identify. A general rule of thumb is that cleaning is more difficult when the holes are smaller and easier when the holes are larger.
5) Stop oiling
Most sink strainers allow water to flow through them, which is ideal for keeping your sink clean. Others, however, feature stoppers that prevent water from passing through. This feature comes in handy if you like to soak your dishes and cutlery in the sink before washing them.
6) Easy to install
Why choose a sink filter that requires professional installation when there are models you can install with your eyes closed? If you want to save money on plumbing bills or install a filter quickly, choose a model with a simple installer procedure.
7) Overflow attachment
If you have a double sink or half bowl, you should probably purchase a filter with an overflow attachment. This feature prevents flooding by redirecting overflow water back into the drain pipe and speeding up the drainage process. Due to potential plumbing issues, it is preferable to install a strainer with an overflow attachment for a double sink or half bowl rather than adding the attachment later.
8) Availability of other components
The best sink strainers usually include extra screws, baskets, filter caps, filter bodies, rubber gaskets, locking nuts, and other accessories. So before paying, make sure your sink filter package includes most of them. In addition to the financial implications of purchasing these components individually, you may also have difficulty finding compatible components.
4. FAQ
Here are answers to frequently asked questions about sink drain strainers.
1) Why does the sink filter leak?
Seal failure is the most common culprit of filter leaks and usually occurs due to an improper seal or defective plumber’s putty.
2) How to keep your kitchen sink filter clean?
Cleaning your sink filter is easy. All you have to do is remove it from the drain system and soak it in a soap and water solution overnight. Then, shake it a little to remove any remaining debris, rinse it, and install it back into the sink.
3) How much does a sink filter cost?
Depending on the type, size, and features, a sink filter can cost between $10 and $80. Considering the bills and the hassle of a clogged kitchen drain, this is a great deal.
5. Conclusion
Your sink drain filter is one of the most important parts of your sink, and it’s crucial to replace it regularly and keep it in good condition. Sink strainers are essential for removing food debris from your sink before it gets into your pipes, and if installed correctly, they can be very effective at reducing clogs. So do your drainage system a favor and purchase a compatible basket strainer from our list of recommendations today.
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