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How to install a kitchen sink

Installing a new kitchen sink is a big project, but if you’re handy and want to do it yourself it can be do-able. You can always call in a professional if you are unsure about the installation process, but here are the basic steps you need in order to replace or install a new kitchen sink.

First Part: Removing the Old Sink

Step 1: The first step is to measure your existing sink. Take in the dimensions and even draw out your sink on a piece of paper and label the distances between the sink wall to the drain centre, etc. This will help you when you shop for your new sink. If you already have your new sink, measuring will help you determine whether you need to alter the size of your countertop.

Step 2: Decide on what components you will be adding to the new sink. Will you be including things such as a sprayer, filtered water tap, on-demand hot water, etc.?

Step 3: Before removing the sink, take a picture of the plumbing configuration in case you have issues reassembling it later. Turn off your hot and cold water supply or if you can’t find that, turn off the main water supply line (found near your water meter, usually). Then, turn on the faucet in order to relieve any water pressure.

Step 4: Use an adjustable wrench to disconnect the water supply lines to the faucet. Catch any water left in the supply line with a small bucket. Don’t remove the faucet yet – instead remove it all at once with the sink.

Step 5: For those with a garbage disposer, turn off the circuit and unplug it. Use pliers to disconnect the drainpipe and P-trap from the sink drain. Then, remove the dishwasher drain line (if you have a dishwasher). Use your disposer manufacturer instructions to remove the disposer.

Step 6: Find the metal clips under the counter that are around the sink. Loosen these clips with a screwdriver, socket wrench or open-end wrench. Swing the clips toward the sink bowl.

Step 7: Use a utility knife to cut the caulk around the sink and then push the unit from underneath to lift the old sink off the counter.

Second Part: Installing the New Sink 

Step 1: Put the new sink in the countertop hole to make sure that it fits. If it doesn’t, modify the countertop to suit the sink using tools such as a jigsaw or tile cutter. To do this, place the new sink upside down over the hole and trace out the size of the sink before cutting.

Step 2: Attach the clips to the new sink and make sure they are turned inward toward the sink bowl.

Step 3: Install the faucet and any other components of your choice to the sink.

Step 4: Apply a little bead of plumber’s putty around the drain strainer. Press the putty firmly. Then, tilt the sink on it’s side and secure the rubber gaskets and flange to the underside of the sink. Repeat this step for any additional drains that will not be attached to disposers and then remove excess putty with a soft towel.

Step 5: Apply a bead of silicone sealant to the edge of the sink and carefully lower the sink into the countertop opening. Once lowered, rotate the metal clips outward and tighten any nuts and screws.

Step 6: Re-attached water supply lines to water connections and make sure you don’t overtighten them.

Step 7: Apply another small bead of sealant around the perimeter of the sink on the outside. Turn on the water and then check for any leaks.

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