## How to Install Kitchen Sink Drain Piping
Installing kitchen sink drain piping is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can ensure that your kitchen sink drains properly and efficiently.
### Tools and Materials
* Adjustable wrench
* Basin wrench
* Channel locks
* Hacksaw
* Plumber’s putty
* Teflon tape
* Sink strainer
* P-trap
* Tailpiece
* Slip joint nut
* Drainpipe
* Drain extension (if necessary)
### Step 1: Remove the Old Drain Piping
1. Place a bucket under the sink to catch any water that may leak out.
2. Use a basin wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the P-trap to the sink drain and the wall drain.
3. Remove the P-trap and tailpiece.
### Step 2: Clean the Drain Holes
1. Use a sponge or cloth to clean the drain holes in the sink and the wall drain.
2. Remove any debris or buildup that may have accumulated.
### Step 3: Apply Plumber’s Putty to the Sink Flange
1. Roll out a rope of plumber’s putty and apply it to the underside of the sink flange.
2. Smooth out the putty with your fingers to create a watertight seal.
### Step 4: Install the Sink Strainer
1. Insert the sink strainer into the drain hole in the sink.
2. Tighten the strainer nut by hand until it is snug.
### Step 5: Install the Tailpiece
1. Apply Teflon tape to the threads of the tailpiece.
2. Screw the tailpiece into the sink drain hole.
3. Tighten the tailpiece with a wrench.
### Step 6: Install the Slip Joint Nut
1. Apply Teflon tape to the threads of the slip joint nut.
2. Screw the slip joint nut onto the tailpiece.
3. Tighten the slip joint nut with a wrench.
### Step 7: Install the P-trap
1. Insert the P-trap into the slip joint nut.
2. Tighten the nuts on the P-trap by hand.
3. Use a wrench to further tighten the nuts until they are snug.
### Step 8: Connect the Drainpipe
1. Cut the drainpipe to the desired length using a hacksaw.
2. Insert the drainpipe into the outlet on the P-trap.
3. Tighten the drainpipe with channel locks.
### Step 9: Install a Drain Extension (Optional)
1. If necessary, install a drain extension to connect the drainpipe to the wall drain.
2. Apply Teflon tape to the threads of the drain extension.
3. Screw the drain extension into the wall drain.
4. Tighten the drain extension with channel locks.
### Step 10: Test the Drain
1. Turn on the water and allow the sink to fill up.
2. Check for any leaks around the drain connections.
3. If there are any leaks, tighten the connections until the leaks stop.
### Troubleshooting
* **Leak around the sink flange:** Apply more plumber’s putty to the underside of the sink flange and tighten the strainer nut.
* **Leak around the tailpiece:** Tighten the tailpiece with a wrench.
* **Leak around the slip joint nut:** Tighten the slip joint nut with a wrench.
* **Leak around the P-trap:** Tighten the nuts on the P-trap.
* **Leak around the drainpipe:** Tighten the drainpipe with channel locks.
* **Drain is slow:** Remove the P-trap and clean out any debris.
### Tips
* Use a flashlight to inspect the drain connections for leaks.
* If you are not comfortable working with plumbing, it is best to call a licensed plumber.
* Regularly clean the drain strainer to prevent clogs.
* Pour a cup of baking soda down the drain once a month to help keep it clear.