## How to Replumb Under Kitchen Sinks
Replumbing under kitchen sinks is a common plumbing task that can be completed in a few hours with the right tools and materials. By following these step-by-step instructions, you can save yourself the cost of hiring a plumber.
### Tools and Materials
Before you begin, gather the following tools and materials:
– Adjustable wrench
– Basin wrench
– Channel locks
– Hacksaw
– PEX cutter
– Pipe wrench
– Slip joint pliers
– Tape measure
– Pencil
– Plumber’s putty
– Teflon tape
– New supply lines
– New drain assembly
### Step-by-Step Instructions
**1. Turn off the Water Supply**
The first step is to turn off the water supply to the sink. This is usually done by turning off the valves under the sink. If there are no valves, you will need to turn off the main water supply to your home.
**2. Disconnect the Water Supply Lines**
Once the water supply is turned off, you can disconnect the water supply lines from the sink. Use an adjustable wrench to loosen the nuts that connect the lines to the sink. Be careful not to overtighten the nuts, as this can damage the lines.
**3. Remove the Drain Assembly**
The next step is to remove the drain assembly. This is usually done by unscrewing the locknut that holds the assembly in place. Once the locknut is removed, you can pull the drain assembly out of the sink.
**4. Clean the Sink Drain**
Once the drain assembly is removed, you can clean the sink drain. Use a sponge or brush to remove any debris that has accumulated in the drain.
**5. Install the New Drain Assembly**
With the sink drain cleaned, you can now install the new drain assembly. Place the new assembly in the sink and hand-tighten the locknut. Do not overtighten the locknut, as this can damage the assembly.
**6. Connect the Water Supply Lines**
Now that the drain assembly is installed, you can connect the water supply lines. Thread Teflon tape onto the threads of the water supply lines, then hand-tighten the nuts that connect the lines to the sink. Use an adjustable wrench to tighten the nuts, but do not overtighten.
**7. Turn on the Water Supply**
Once the water supply lines are connected, you can turn on the water supply. Check for leaks around the connections and tighten any nuts that are leaking.
**8. Test the Drain**
With the water supply turned on, you can test the drain. Run water into the sink and check for leaks around the drain assembly. If there are any leaks, tighten the nuts that secure the assembly.
## Tips for Replumbing Under Kitchen Sinks
– If you are not comfortable working with plumbing, it is best to hire a licensed plumber.
– Be sure to turn off the water supply before starting any work.
– Use the correct tools for the job.
– Do not overtighten any nuts or bolts.
– Test the drain after you have finished the work to make sure there are no leaks.
## Troubleshooting
**Q: I cannot get the drain assembly to stop leaking.**
A: Make sure that the locknut is tight. If it is, you may need to replace the drain assembly.
**Q: I turned on the water supply and there is a leak around one of the connections.**
A: Tighten the nuts that connect the water supply line to the sink. If the leak continues, you may need to replace the washer in the connection.
**Q: I cannot get the water supply lines to connect to the sink.**
A: Make sure that the threads on the water supply lines are clean and free of debris. If they are, you may need to replace the water supply lines.