Kitchen sinks are essential parts in every kitchen, available in various shapes, sizes, and materials. However, the key to their proper function lies in correct installation.
In this blog, Derks Plumbing demonstrates how to install kitchen sink plumbing through simple steps.
How to Install Kitchen Sink Plumbing
Installing the plumbing for a kitchen sink includes connecting the water supply lines, setting up the drain system, and making sure everything is properly sealed and fully operational.
The installation process itself is straightforward, as it mainly involves screwing or gluing the plumbing components without the need for soldering. The most challenging part is typically connecting the drain. However, we’ve created a step-by-step guide to help you with your sink installation.
Gather the Required Tools, Equipment, and Materials
The first step is to gather all the supplies required for the installation. Having everything you need ready beforehand is crucial, as it helps ensure a smooth, uninterrupted installation process. You will need tools and equipment such as:
- A tape measure
- Channel-type pliers
- A marker
- A PVC tubing cutter (or a hacksaw)
- An adjustable wrench
The specific materials you’ll need include the following:
- Teflon tape
- A sink strainer
- A new drain pipe
- Plumber’s putty
- A kitchen drain trap kit
Attach the Water Supply Lines to the Sink
Once you’ve gathered all your materials, the next step is to connect the water supply. Start by wrapping Teflon tape around the threads of the hot and cold supply lines. Attach them to the faucet’s hot and cold connections. Tighten the connections using two adjustable wrenches—one to hold the nut and the other to tighten the supply line.
Finally, wrap Teflon tape around the shutoff valve threads and connect the supply lines to the valves.
Check the Drain Outlet Height
Since kitchen sinks vary in depth, it’s important to check the height of the drain outlet before replacing an old sink. Start by measuring the trap arm, the horizontal pipe that connects the branch drainpipe on the wall to the U-shaped trap (or P-trap).
The trap arm should slope downward for proper drainage. Measure the distance from the center of the trap arm to the floor or the base of the cabinet to ensure the new sink will align with the trap arm for proper drainage.
Set Up the Strainer and Garbage Disposal
Next, remove the old sink and install the new one on the countertop. In case you have a double-basin sink, install a sink strainer on one side and a garbage disposal on the other.
This is also a good time to add any other under-sink components, such as a water filter or hot water dispenser. Be sure to carefully work around the fittings when connecting the drain pipes.
Attach the Drain Tailpiece and Waste Pipe
A drain tailpiece connects the sink strainer to the tee fitting and has a side outlet for the waste pipe from the garbage disposal or second sink basin. Here’s how to install it:
- Attach the tailpiece to the sink strainer with a slip nut and connect the waste pipe to the garbage disposal’s drain outlet.
- Extend the straight end of the pipe slightly past the tailpiece and slope it downward.
- Mark cutting lines on the waste pipe and tailpiece, then cut with a hacksaw or PVC cutter.
- Reinstall the pipes and tee fitting, tightening the slip nuts without over-tightening.
Connect the Drain Trap and Check for Leaks
The drain trap includes a U-shaped bend and a J-shaped trap arm. The trap bend connects to the bottom of the tailpiece or tee fitting, while the trap arm leads to the wall drain.
Position the trap parts under the sink and ensure they slope slightly downward in the direction of water flow. Tighten all connections, then run water in both basins to check for leaks. If you find any, retighten those joints.
And just like that, you have mastered the art of installing the plumbing for your kitchen sink.
DIY vs Professional Plumbing
Tackling kitchen sink plumbing might feel like solving a simple puzzle, until one wrong move turns it into a messy leak. While installing kitchen sink plumbing is generally manageable with basic tools and DIY steps, it’s important to know your limits.
If at any point you feel unsure or overwhelmed, calling a professional plumber is the smartest way to avoid costly mistakes and ensure your plumbing functions properly.
Get Professionals to do the Plumbing For You
When a simple fix starts to feel like a plumbing maze, it’s time to call in the experts. At Derks Plumbing, our licensed plumbers specialize in kitchen sink plumbing installation, ensuring every connection is secure, leak-free, and built to last.
Whether you’re upgrading your kitchen sink or replacing an old sink, our team delivers reliable, long-lasting results with professional precision.