How To Remove A Kitchen Sink And Install A New One

How To Remove A Kitchen Sink And Install A New One

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March 18, 2017

Getting Started 

First, read the manufacturer’s instructions.  Also follow all local building codes.

If you’re not comfortable installing a kitchen sink, then hire a professional right away.

Next, select the appropriate type of replacement sink.  Single and double-bowl drop-in sinks can be installed into most countertop surfaces.

Undermount sinks install beneath the counter and should only be used with solid-surface and natural or engineered stone countertops.

Here are the steps for installing a drop-in sink…

Step 1

Measure your existing sink.  If your new sink has different dimensions and drain location(s) than the unit it will replace, you may need to modify the countertop opening and/or plumbing.

Step 2 

Decide if you will also replace the faucet or install additional components such as a sprayer, soap dispenser, on-demand hot water tap or filtered water tap.  Sinks typically have 1, 2, 3 or 4 holes on the rear lip for a faucet and additional components.

Remove the Old Sink

Before you begin, snap a picture of your plumbing configuration for reference later.

Step 1

Turn off the hot and cold water lines.  The shutoff valves typically are in the cabinet below the sink or in the basement.  If you cannot find them, turn off the main water line to your home.

Step 2

Turn on the faucet to relieve water pressure in the lines.

Step 3

Use adjustable wrenches to disconnect the water supply lines to the faucet.  Have a small bucket ready to catch any water left in the supply lines and drainpipes as they are removed.

Step 4

If you have a garbage disposal, turn off the circuit, then unplug it.  Use pliers to disconnect the drainpipe and P-trap from the sink drain.  Keep a bucket or pan underneath the drain to catch excess water.

Step 5 Remove the dishwasher drain line.   Step 6   Remove the disposal following the manufacturer’s instructions.

• If you don’t have your disposer instructions, check the manufacturer’s website.
• Have a bucket ready to catch any water.
• Most disposers loosen at the mounting bracket connection to the sink drain and twist off.

Step 7 Locate the metal clips under the counter around the sink’s perimeter.  Loosen them with a screwdriver, open-end wrench or socket wrench and swing them toward the sink bowl.   Step 8
Cut the caulk around the sink with a utility knife.
Step 9
  Push the unit from underneath and lift the old sink away.
Step 10

Use a putty knife to remove grime, caulk and old plumber’s putty from the countertop.  Also, clean any components you will re-install.

Install the New Sink

Step 1

Set the new sink in the countertop hole to verify that it fits.  If necessary, modify the countertop opening.

If your new sink has larger dimensions than the current countertop opening, turn the sink upside-down where you want it on the countertop.  Trace the outline and create a new cutout with a jigsaw.

Step 2

Remove the sink from the countertop hole to attach the clips, turned inward toward the sink bowl.

Step 3

Install the faucet and additional components.

Step 4

Apply a small bead of plumber’s putty around the drain strainer and install the strainer, pressing firmly against the putty.

Step 5

Tilt the sink to its side to place and secure rubber gaskets and threaded flange to the underside of the sink drain.  Repeat this for additional drains without disposers.

Step 6

Remove excess putty with a soft towel.

Step 7

If you have a garbage disposal, use a screwdriver to install the mounting bracket to the bottom of the sink following the manufacturer’s instructions.

Step 8

Apply a bead of silicone sealant to the edge of the basin.

Step 9

Lower the sink into the countertop opening, aligning squarely.

Step 10

From below the sink, rotate the metal attachment clips outward and tighten the nuts or screws.

Step 11

Attach the supply lines to the water connections of the faucet and the supply pipes.  Tighten the connections, taking care not to strip the threads or over-tighten.

Step 12

If you have a garbage disposal, install the unit following the manufacturer’s instructions. Insert the discharge pipe and tighten the clamp.

Step 13

Reinstall the dishwasher drain.

Step 14

Connect the disposal discharge pipe to the sink drain pipe and reattach the P-trap.

Step 15 If your old drainpipes don’t line up to your new sink, you can make some simple adjustments.

If a pipe is too long (such as the tailpiece from the drain on the main sink):

• Measure the length.
• Add a little extra to the measured length.
• Wearing safety glasses, cut the pipe with a hacksaw.
• Place a washer on the pipe, then slide a slip nut onto the pipe over the washer.
• If you need a slip nut for the other end of the pipe, slide the slip nut onto the pipe facing the appropriate direction.
• Then, add a washer.
• Hold the pipe in place and screw the slip nut(s) to the appropriate fittings.

If a pipe is too short:

• Determine the length needed.
• Add a little extra to the measured length to ensure a tight connection.
• Purchase a longer pipe. Be sure the new pipe is the correct diameter.
• If the pipe is longer than needed, cut it with a hacksaw. Wear safety glasses when cutting.
• Place a washer on the pipe, then slide the slip nut onto the pipe over the washer.
• If you need a slip nut for the other end of the pipe, slide the slip nut onto the pipe facing the appropriate direction. Then add a washer.
• Hold the pipe in place and screw the slip nut(s) to the appropriate fittings.

If you need to make a bend (such as to a wall outlet):

• First, try rotating the P-trap, outlet tee or any other pipes to line up appropriately.
• If that’s not possible, use a flexible extension pipe to make the connection. Just bend the pipe to the desired position, and use rubber washers and slip nuts to attach it to the other plumbing.

Step 16 Apply a small bead of sealant to the perimeter of the sink.   Step 17
  Reconnect the power to the disposer.  Turn the water on and check for leaks.   Then all done!  

Feel free to stop into Builder Supply Outlet or the Edge Showroom with any home improvement questions you may have regarding windows, security, kitchen cabinets, remodeling, construction, contractors, designing/installing a new kitchen or bathroom — or anything else.  We can help you through the entire design and installation process from A-Z.  Or call us anytime in Broadview, IL at 1-708-343-3900. You can also make an appointment to meet with one of our Edge Kitchen and Bathroom designers at no charge by clicking here.