Install and Secure Drain Assembly — Mount the Air Switch Button
Part of project
How to Install an In-Sink Air Switch for a Garbage Disposal · Step 3 of 6
In this video
Carefully place the drain assembly with the fresh putty into the sink drain opening from the top. Press down firmly to seat it. From underneath the sink, slide the rubber gasket up against the sink bottom, followed by the cardboard friction ring. Finally, thread the large locknut onto the drain assembly and tighten it by hand. To fully secure it, use a screwdriver and hammer to gently tap the locknut clockwise until it is snug. This will squeeze the plumber's putty out around the top, creating a tight seal.
Goal: Secure the new drain assembly in the sink
- Have someone hold the drain in place from the top while you tighten the locknut from below to prevent it from spinning.
Used in this video
- Flathead Screwdriver (Screwdriver_Type: Flathead) — Tapping the locknut to tighten it.
- Hammer (Tool Functionality: Applying) — Tapping the screwdriver to tighten the locknut.
236K subscribers
FAQs
Do I really need a specific 1-5/16 inch hole saw for the air switch button, or can I use a different size drill bit?
Using the recommended 1-5/16 inch hole saw is crucial for a clean, precise cut and a snug fit for the air switch button. An incorrect size could lead to a loose fit, potential water ingress, or difficulty in securing the button properly. While other methods might exist, the hole saw provides the best result for durability and safety.
What are the most important safety precautions I need to take before starting this installation, especially since it involves electrical components near water?
Always turn off the power to your garbage disposal circuit at the breaker before beginning any work, and confirm it's off with a non-contact voltage tester. Ensure your work area under the sink is completely dry, and after installation, thoroughly check for any leaks around the new switch and existing plumbing connections before restoring power.
My air switch button is installed, but the garbage disposal isn't turning on when I press it. What should I check first?
First, verify that the power control module is plugged into a functioning outlet and the garbage disposal is securely plugged into the module. Next, check that the air tube is firmly connected to both the air switch button under the sink and the power control module. A kinked or disconnected air tube is a common issue.
Is there an alternative to drilling a hole in my sink deck if I'm hesitant to do so?
Yes, if you have an existing unused pre-drilled hole in your sink deck (like for a soap dispenser or old sprayer), you can often use that. Alternatively, some air switch kits offer options for mounting directly into the countertop instead of the sink, or you can purchase a separate countertop-mounted button that doesn't require drilling into the sink.
TranscriptHide
Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.
Install and Secure Drain Assembly — Mount the Air Switch Button
Part of project
How to Install an In-Sink Air Switch for a Garbage Disposal · Step 3 of 6
In this video
Carefully place the drain assembly with the fresh putty into the sink drain opening from the top. Press down firmly to seat it. From underneath the sink, slide the rubber gasket up against the sink bottom, followed by the cardboard friction ring. Finally, thread the large locknut onto the drain assembly and tighten it by hand. To fully secure it, use a screwdriver and hammer to gently tap the locknut clockwise until it is snug. This will squeeze the plumber's putty out around the top, creating a tight seal.
Goal: Secure the new drain assembly in the sink
- Have someone hold the drain in place from the top while you tighten the locknut from below to prevent it from spinning.
Used in this video
- Flathead Screwdriver (Screwdriver_Type: Flathead) — Tapping the locknut to tighten it.
- Hammer (Tool Functionality: Applying) — Tapping the screwdriver to tighten the locknut.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I really need a specific 1-5/16 inch hole saw for the air switch button, or can I use a different size drill bit?
Using the recommended 1-5/16 inch hole saw is crucial for a clean, precise cut and a snug fit for the air switch button. An incorrect size could lead to a loose fit, potential water ingress, or difficulty in securing the button properly. While other methods might exist, the hole saw provides the best result for durability and safety.
What are the most important safety precautions I need to take before starting this installation, especially since it involves electrical components near water?
Always turn off the power to your garbage disposal circuit at the breaker before beginning any work, and confirm it's off with a non-contact voltage tester. Ensure your work area under the sink is completely dry, and after installation, thoroughly check for any leaks around the new switch and existing plumbing connections before restoring power.
My air switch button is installed, but the garbage disposal isn't turning on when I press it. What should I check first?
First, verify that the power control module is plugged into a functioning outlet and the garbage disposal is securely plugged into the module. Next, check that the air tube is firmly connected to both the air switch button under the sink and the power control module. A kinked or disconnected air tube is a common issue.
Is there an alternative to drilling a hole in my sink deck if I'm hesitant to do so?
Yes, if you have an existing unused pre-drilled hole in your sink deck (like for a soap dispenser or old sprayer), you can often use that. Alternatively, some air switch kits offer options for mounting directly into the countertop instead of the sink, or you can purchase a separate countertop-mounted button that doesn't require drilling into the sink.
Video Transcript
(636 characters)Hide
Video Transcript
(636 characters)Transcript may be auto-generated and contain errors.