Maya Ellison
Installing plastic pipes under your sink is a simple plumbing operation that can be completed in a few hours. The pipes, also known as a P-trap, connect the sink drain to the waste pipe that runs to your home's sewer line. Plastic pipes are preferable to metal pipes as they don't corrode and are easy to maintain. To install plastic pipes under your sink, you will need to purchase a P-trap installation kit that matches the diameter of your drain. You can then assemble the pipes or parts with compression fittings and tighten the nuts until the P-trap is ready for installation. Once installed, you can check for leaks by running water for a minute or two and observing the plumbing connections for drips.
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What You'll Learn
Choosing the right pipe
When choosing the right pipe for installing plastic pipes under your sink, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the pipe should be made of a durable material that is resistant to corrosion and leakage. PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a standard choice for sink pipes because it is chemical-resistant and won't corrode over time. ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) pipes are also an option and are designed for DWV (drain-waste-vent) systems. Both PVC and ABS pipes are hard plastics that are easy to maintain and suitable for sink drains.
Another factor to consider is the diameter of the pipe. The diameter of the drain and waste pipe is typically either 1 1⁄4 or 1 1⁄2 inches (3.2 or 3.8 cm). It is important to measure the diameter of your sink drain and choose a pipe with a matching diameter. You can find P-trap installation kits at your local hardware store that includes pipes with standard diameters.
In terms of aesthetics, if your sink pipes are visible from the outside, you may want to choose a material that complements the interior design of your space. Copper, chrome, or stainless steel pipes are often preferred for their aesthetic finish when surface mounting or in other visible situations. However, plastic pipes are becoming more common due to their flexibility and durability.
Additionally, depending on the complexity of the installation, you may want to consider the flexibility of the pipe material. Plastic piping, such as polybutylene, offers greater flexibility and is easier to work with when running pipes between joists, in the ceiling, or around corners. It is also less susceptible to pipe damage during cold weather as it can expand with water expansion, whereas copper pipes do not expand when frozen.
Finally, it is important to consider the local plumbing codes and regulations. Some codes specify the use of PVC or ABS, and regional availability may influence your choice. It is always a good idea to consult with a professional plumber to ensure that your installation meets the necessary standards and to address any specific considerations for your project.
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Preparing the P-trap kit
Before you begin, make sure you have a bucket or bowl to hand to catch any spills from residual water in the P-trap.
First, measure and cut the wall tube to the length required to connect the J-bend to the waste connector. If the wall tube is too long, mark where you need to cut it with a marker and use a pipe cutter or hacksaw to trim it. Remember to measure twice and cut once to avoid mistakes.
Next, slide a nut and slip joint washer from your P-trap kit onto the wall tube. Insert the wall tube into the waste connector, securing the seal with the slip joint washer. Then, tighten the nut to connect the pieces securely.
Now, position a nut and slip joint washer on the tailpiece. Then, slip the tailpiece into the J-bend, securing the seal with the slip joint washer. Tighten the nut to connect the pieces securely.
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Connecting the pipes
Begin by sliding the trap arm into the water drain, ensuring it opens into the wall. Then, attach the trap bend to the tailpiece of the sink and the end of the trap arm. If you require a tailpiece extension, this should be positioned at this point. Loosely thread the slip nuts onto the threaded hubs, ensuring they are slid against the fittings. Adjust the trap bend and arm so that they align correctly, with no awkward angles, and the trap arm should have a slight downward slope towards the wall. The recommended pitch is a 0.25-inch downward slope per foot.
Tighten the plastic slip nuts as much as you can with your hands. Do not overtighten if you feel any resistance, as this could crack the plastic and cause a leak. Once everything is tightened, you can turn the water supply valves on by rotating them counterclockwise as far as they will go. Plug the sink and fill half the basin with water, then pull out the plug and check for any leaks. If you notice any leaks, turn off the water supply, dry the pipes, and check that the nuts are tight and washers are installed correctly.
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Checking for leaks
Before you begin, ensure that you have arranged all the necessary parts for installing the kitchen sink properly. These include the trap arm, trap bend, tailpiece, and slip nuts.
Once you have assembled the components, follow these steps to check for leaks:
- Rotate the water supply valves counterclockwise to turn on the water in your faucet.
- Plug the sink and fill half the basin with water.
- Remove the plug and closely observe the pipes for any signs of leakage.
- If you notice any leaks, it is important to turn off the water supply immediately.
- Disassemble the pipes to inspect if the nuts are tightened correctly and if the washers are installed properly. Ensure that the washers form a tight seal to prevent leaks.
- Regularly inspect the area under the sink and inside the cabinet for any signs of foul smells, mould, or discolouration, which could indicate a hidden plumbing leak.
- Compare your recent water bills to identify any sudden increases that cannot be attributed to changes in your water usage habits. This could be a sign of a hidden leak.
- Check your exterior faucets by connecting a garden hose. If water seeps through the connection, replace the rubber gasket and ensure all connections are tight.
- If you are unable to locate the source of the leak, contact a professional plumber for assistance.
Remember, timely intervention can prevent water damage and costly repairs, so it is important to be vigilant about checking for leaks during and after the installation process.
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Fixing leaks
Then, loosen the slip nuts on either side of the trap and remove it for inspection. Check the P-trap for any signs of damage, such as cracks or other issues with the piping, connectors, nuts, or O-rings. Clean out any debris and replace any worn gaskets. If the washers are hard or deteriorated, or if they have become misaligned, they will need to be replaced or realigned.
If the P-trap appears to be in good condition, the leak can likely be fixed by tightening the slip-joint nuts. Ensure that the pipes are correctly aligned, as misalignment can affect the slip-joint nut's seal and cause a leak. If the sections of the pipe are misaligned, nudge them into better alignment. If the misalignment is significant, you may need to remove the P-trap for repairs and reinstallation.
Once the P-trap has been inspected and any necessary repairs or replacements have been made, reinstall the P-trap, tightening the slip nuts securely but not excessively. To test for leaks, turn the water supply back on and let the water run for a few moments. Check the connections for any signs of leaks. If you notice a leak, tighten the nuts a bit more until the leak stops.
If the P-trap is still leaking after tightening the nuts, there may be a deeper issue with fit, corrosion, or a misplaced washer, and the entire trap may need to be removed and replaced.
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Frequently asked questions
A P-trap is a curved pipe under the sink that retains water to prevent sewer gases from entering your home. It also traps clogs and keeps items from going down the pipes.
You will need a bucket or bowl, an adjustable wrench, a pipe cutter or hacksaw, and slip joint pliers. You will also need a P-trap kit, which includes all the necessary parts for installation.
First, locate the shut-off valve under your sink and turn it clockwise to shut off the water supply. Use your adjustable wrench to loosen and remove the nuts securing the P-trap. Place a bucket or bowl underneath to avoid spills from residual water.
Measure and cut the wall tube to the required length. Insert the wall tube into the connector, using a slip joint washer to ensure a seal. Tighten the seal using the appropriately-sized nut. Position a nut and slip joint washer on the tailpiece, then slip the tailpiece into the J-bend and tighten the nut to connect the pieces securely.
Once the P-trap is installed, turn the water supply back on and let the water run. Check the connections for any signs of leaks. If there are no leaks, you have successfully installed the P-trap.
