## How to Plumb Elkay Kitchen Sinks: An In-Depth Guide
### Materials and Tools Required
* Elkay undermount kitchen sink
* Garbage disposal (optional)
* P-trap
* Slip-joint pliers
* Hacksaw
* Measuring tape
* Pencil
* Level
* Plumber’s putty
* Screwdriver (for garbage disposal)
* 1 1/2″ drain pipe
* 3/4″ water supply lines
* Compression nuts and washers
* Teflon tape
### Step 1: Cut and Measure the Drain Pipe
1. Measure the distance from the sink drain hole to the wall where the drainpipe will be connected.
2. Using a hacksaw, cut a piece of 1 1/2″ drainpipe to this length.
3. Smooth the edges of the cut pipe using sandpaper or a file.
### Step 2: Connect the P-Trap
1. Attach a slip-joint nut to one end of the P-trap.
2. Insert the free end of the P-trap into the drain hole of the sink.
3. Tighten the slip-joint nut to secure the P-trap.
### Step 3: Install the Garbage Disposal (Optional)
If using a garbage disposal, follow these steps:
1. Attach the flange of the disposal to the bottom of the sink with the provided screws.
2. Connect the drainpipe to the outlet pipe of the disposal.
3. Connect the electrical cord of the disposal to the kitchen circuit.
### Step 4: Cut and Prepare the Water Supply Lines
1. Measure the distance from the sink faucet holes to the water supply shut-off valves.
2. Cut two pieces of 3/4″ water supply line to these lengths.
3. Apply Teflon tape to the threads of the compression nuts.
### Step 5: Connect the Water Supply Lines
1. Insert a compression washer into each compression nut.
2. Screw one end of each water supply line into a shut-off valve.
3. Insert the other end of each water supply line into a faucet hole in the sink.
4. Tighten the compression nuts by hand, then use a wrench to fully secure them.
### Step 6: Seal the Sink to the Countertop
1. Apply a thick bead of plumber’s putty around the rim of the sink.
2. Carefully insert the sink into the cutout in the countertop.
3. Press down on the sink to spread the putty and create a seal.
### Step 7: Secure the Sink
1. Apply additional plumber’s putty around the sink rim, where it meets the underside of the countertop.
2. Use a screwdriver to tighten the mounting clips that secure the sink to the countertop.
### Step 8: Level the Sink
1. Place a level across the top of the sink.
2. If the sink is not level, adjust the mounting clips accordingly.
### Step 9: Connect the Drain Trap to the Waste Line
1. Connect the remaining end of the P-trap to the waste line using a slip-joint nut.
2. Secure the connection by tightening the slip-joint nut.
### Step 10: Test for Leaks
1. Turn on both the hot and cold water faucets.
2. Check for leaks at all connections.
3. Tighten any loose connections as needed.
### Troubleshooting Common Plumbing Issues
* **Sink not draining**: Check for clogs in the P-trap, drainpipe, or garbage disposal. Clear any obstructions and reset the disposal.
* **Leaking faucet**: Replace the washer or cartridge in the faucet.
* **Leaking drain**: Check for loose connections or cracks in the P-trap, drainpipe, or sink. Tighten or replace any damaged parts.
* **Water hammering**: This is a loud banging noise caused by water pressure in the pipes. Install a water hammer arrester or adjust the water pressure.
* **Frozen pipes**: If the pipes freeze, turn off the water supply and thaw the pipes with a heat gun or hair dryer. Never use an open flame.