How to Disconnect Sink Plumbing

If you have ever needed a plumber to come round to fix such a thing as leaky sink plumbing, then you are no doubt familiar with how expensive it can be. Having a basic and practical knowledge of plumbing can save you a lot of money and time. Rather than having to go through frustratingly long waits before somebody comes to do the repair, you can disconnect the kitchen sink plumbing yourself.

Tools and Materials Needed:

• Adjustable spanners
• Bucket
• Flashlight
• Basin wrench
• Gloves
• Putty knife

Step 1 – Turn Off Water Supply

Before you begin, make sure that the main water supply is turned off. Alternatively, you can simply turn off the water supply to the kitchen sink itself. You will find that there are two supply lines attached to the faucet. One of these is for hot water and one of these is for cold water. You may find that there are taps on these underneath the sink. If this is the case, simply turn them both off. If you are uncertain, turn off the main water supply to the building. Drain any excess water remaining in the lines by turning on the kitchen taps. Put a bucket beneath the sink to catch any water that leaks during the following steps.

Step 2 – Disconnect Water Supply Lines

With an adjustable spanner, carefully turn the nuts attaching the water supply lines to the sink. Turn them in a counter clockwise motion to loosen them. After a few turns, you should be able to disconnect them. Pull the piping away from the faucet.

Step 3 – Remove J-Trap

The J-trap is the component of the sink which attaches to the drain. It is called so because it is shaped like the letter ‘J.' You will find that this is attached using thin metal bands which are tightened together around the connections using nuts. Loosen the nuts to loosen the bands. Again, these should not be particularly tight in the first place so to prevent any damage to the sink plumbing. Remove the component once you have loosened the nuts enough.

Step 4 – Remove Sink

Now that you have disconnected the drain and the water supply lines to the sink, you can remove the sink itself. To do this, you may be able to simply lift it out of place. However, there will likely be some sealant between the lip of the sink and the countertop surface. Cut this away using a putty knife.

Step 5 – Remove the Faucet

To remove the faucet, use the basin wrench to remove the nuts which hold the supply lines to it. Remove the mounting nuts which hold the tap to the sink. Pull the taps upwards to remove them.