## Who Can Replace a Kitchen Sink?
Replacing a kitchen sink is a relatively simple plumbing task that can be completed by most do-it-yourselfers with basic tools and materials. However, if you are not comfortable working with plumbing fixtures, it is best to hire a professional plumber to do the job.
### Tools and Materials
Before you start, you will need to gather the following tools and materials:
* New kitchen sink
* Sink strainer
* Plumber’s putty
* Teflon tape
* Adjustable wrench
* Slip-joint pliers
* Basin wrench
* Utility knife
* Measuring tape
* Pencil
### Step-by-Step Instructions
**1. Turn off the water supply.** This is usually done by turning off the main water shut-off valve located near your water meter. If you do not know where your main water shut-off valve is located, consult your home’s owner’s manual.
**2. Disconnect the water supply lines.** Once the water supply is turned off, use a slip-joint pliers to disconnect the water supply lines from the sink faucets. Be sure to place a towel under the connections to catch any dripping water.
**3. Disconnect the drain.** Use a basin wrench to loosen the slip nut that holds the drain in place. Once the slip nut is loose, you can remove the drain by pulling it up from the sink.
**4. Remove the old sink.** Once the water supply lines and drain are disconnected, you can remove the old sink from the countertop. To do this, simply lift the sink straight up and out of the opening.
**5. Clean the countertop.** Once the old sink is removed, clean the countertop thoroughly with a damp cloth. This will help to remove any dirt or debris that may have gotten under the sink.
**6. Apply plumber’s putty.** Apply a bead of plumber’s putty around the rim of the new sink. This will help to create a watertight seal between the sink and the countertop.
**7. Install the new sink.** Carefully lower the new sink into the opening in the countertop. Be sure to align the sink properly so that the drain hole is in the center of the opening.
**8. Tighten the mounting nuts.** Once the sink is in place, tighten the mounting nuts under the sink to secure it. Do not overtighten the nuts, as this could damage the sink.
**9. Connect the drain.** Insert the drain into the drain hole in the sink. Then, tighten the slip nut under the sink to secure the drain.
**10. Connect the water supply lines.** Connect the water supply lines to the sink faucets. Be sure to use Teflon tape on the threads of the water supply lines to create a watertight seal.
**11. Turn on the water supply.** Once the water supply lines are connected, turn on the main water shut-off valve to restore water to the sink.
**12. Check for leaks.** Once the water is turned on, check for any leaks around the sink. If you find any leaks, tighten the connections until the leaks stop.
### Hiring a Professional Plumber
If you are not comfortable replacing a kitchen sink yourself, you can hire a professional plumber to do the job. Plumbers typically charge between $100 and $200 to replace a kitchen sink. The cost will vary depending on the complexity of the job and the location of your home.
### Safety Precautions
When replacing a kitchen sink, it is important to take the following safety precautions:
* Always turn off the water supply before starting any work.
* Be careful when using sharp tools.
* Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from flying debris.
* If you are not comfortable working with plumbing fixtures, do not attempt to replace a kitchen sink yourself. Hire a professional plumber to do the job.