Install and Tighten New 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
Install the new drain assembly. Push the putty-laden flange down into the drain hole from the top of the sink. From underneath, place the rubber gasket (with its own layer of putty) onto the drain body, followed by the friction washer and the locknut. Tighten the locknut by hand first, then use a wrench to secure it firmly. As you tighten, excess putty will squeeze out from the top; this is normal. The drain body with the side valve should be oriented correctly before final tightening.
Goal: Plumbing Fixture Installation
- Do not overtighten the locknut, as it can damage the drain assembly or the sink.
Used in this video
- Adjustable Wrench (brand: Unspecified) — To tighten the drain's locknut from underneath the sink.
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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 Tighten New 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
Install the new drain assembly. Push the putty-laden flange down into the drain hole from the top of the sink. From underneath, place the rubber gasket (with its own layer of putty) onto the drain body, followed by the friction washer and the locknut. Tighten the locknut by hand first, then use a wrench to secure it firmly. As you tighten, excess putty will squeeze out from the top; this is normal. The drain body with the side valve should be oriented correctly before final tightening.
Goal: Plumbing Fixture Installation
- Do not overtighten the locknut, as it can damage the drain assembly or the sink.
Used in this video
- Adjustable Wrench (brand: Unspecified) — To tighten the drain's locknut from underneath the sink.
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
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Video Transcript
(180 characters)Transcript may be auto-generated and contain errors.