Prepare the Garbage Disposal — Install Garbage Disposal and Prepare Dishwasher Connection
Part of project
How to Plumb a Double Kitchen Sink Drain with a Garbage Disposal · Step 2 of 8
In this video
If you are connecting to a new garbage disposal, you must remove the knockout plug located in the dishwasher drain inlet pipe. Place the tip of a screwdriver against the plug from the outside and tap it firmly with a hammer to break it loose. The plug will fall inside the disposal. Reach into the disposal's grinding chamber to retrieve and discard the plastic plug. This step is critical; if the plug is not removed, the dishwasher cannot drain.
Goal: Remove the knockout plug from the garbage disposal
- This is the most common mistake in dishwasher installation. Forgetting to remove this plug will cause a flood on the first use.
Used in this video
- Screwdriver (Tool Type: Screwdriver, Power Source: Manual) — Tapping out the garbage disposal knockout plug.
- Hammer (Tool Type: Hand Tools, Power Source: Manual) — Tapping the screwdriver to remove the knockout plug.
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FAQs
How difficult is it to plumb a double kitchen sink with a garbage disposal for a beginner, and how long should I expect it to take?
This project is rated as beginner-friendly, but requires patience and attention to detail. For a DIY novice, plan to set aside 3-5 hours, especially if you encounter unexpected issues or need to make precise cuts. The material cost, including the disposal and plumbing parts, typically ranges from $150-$400 depending on the quality and features chosen.
Are all the listed tools, especially specialized cutters and reamers, truly essential for this plumbing project?
While basic tools like Channellock pliers and a screwdriver are essential, specialized tools like the RIDGID PTEC 3000 plastic tubing cutter and the Husky Reamer are highly recommended. They ensure clean, burr-free cuts on plastic pipes, which significantly reduces the risk of leaks and makes assembly much easier. You could use a hacksaw for cuts, but meticulous deburring would then be critical.
What are the most common mistakes that lead to leaks after installing a double sink drain and garbage disposal, and how can I prevent them?
The most common causes of leaks are improperly tightened slip-nut connections, not using plumber's putty correctly around the sink flange, and misaligned P-trap components. Always hand-tighten slip nuts first, then use your Channellock pliers for an additional half-turn, ensuring all washers are seated perfectly. Thoroughly test for leaks by running water and inspecting every connection with paper towels.
What specific safety precautions should I take when working under the sink, especially with a garbage disposal and water lines?
Safety is paramount. Always disconnect power to the garbage disposal at the circuit breaker before beginning any work on it. Turn off the water supply to the sink at the shut-off valves or main house valve. Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris, and use gloves to avoid contact with old grime or chemicals.
TranscriptHide
Auto-generated transcript. May contain errors.
Prepare the Garbage Disposal — Install Garbage Disposal and Prepare Dishwasher Connection
Part of project
How to Plumb a Double Kitchen Sink Drain with a Garbage Disposal · Step 2 of 8
In this video
If you are connecting to a new garbage disposal, you must remove the knockout plug located in the dishwasher drain inlet pipe. Place the tip of a screwdriver against the plug from the outside and tap it firmly with a hammer to break it loose. The plug will fall inside the disposal. Reach into the disposal's grinding chamber to retrieve and discard the plastic plug. This step is critical; if the plug is not removed, the dishwasher cannot drain.
Goal: Remove the knockout plug from the garbage disposal
- This is the most common mistake in dishwasher installation. Forgetting to remove this plug will cause a flood on the first use.
Used in this video
- Screwdriver (Tool Type: Screwdriver, Power Source: Manual) — Tapping out the garbage disposal knockout plug.
- Hammer (Tool Type: Hand Tools, Power Source: Manual) — Tapping the screwdriver to remove the knockout plug.
Frequently Asked Questions
How difficult is it to plumb a double kitchen sink with a garbage disposal for a beginner, and how long should I expect it to take?
This project is rated as beginner-friendly, but requires patience and attention to detail. For a DIY novice, plan to set aside 3-5 hours, especially if you encounter unexpected issues or need to make precise cuts. The material cost, including the disposal and plumbing parts, typically ranges from $150-$400 depending on the quality and features chosen.
Are all the listed tools, especially specialized cutters and reamers, truly essential for this plumbing project?
While basic tools like Channellock pliers and a screwdriver are essential, specialized tools like the RIDGID PTEC 3000 plastic tubing cutter and the Husky Reamer are highly recommended. They ensure clean, burr-free cuts on plastic pipes, which significantly reduces the risk of leaks and makes assembly much easier. You could use a hacksaw for cuts, but meticulous deburring would then be critical.
What are the most common mistakes that lead to leaks after installing a double sink drain and garbage disposal, and how can I prevent them?
The most common causes of leaks are improperly tightened slip-nut connections, not using plumber's putty correctly around the sink flange, and misaligned P-trap components. Always hand-tighten slip nuts first, then use your Channellock pliers for an additional half-turn, ensuring all washers are seated perfectly. Thoroughly test for leaks by running water and inspecting every connection with paper towels.
What specific safety precautions should I take when working under the sink, especially with a garbage disposal and water lines?
Safety is paramount. Always disconnect power to the garbage disposal at the circuit breaker before beginning any work on it. Turn off the water supply to the sink at the shut-off valves or main house valve. Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris, and use gloves to avoid contact with old grime or chemicals.
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Video Transcript
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