Kitchen plumbing is based on two separate systems: a supply system brings in freshwater under pressure, and the drain system transports wastewater away. Maintenance of these systems can help prevent problems like leaks, clogs, and other issues. Contact The Woodlands Plumber for more information.
Measure your sink basin’s width by fixing a tape measure across the back edge and stretching it to the front of the sink. Add the sink lip’s width to this measurement as well.
Sink
A sink is the main fixture in a kitchen used to wash utensils and dishes. It comes in a wide variety of styles, materials, and sizes. The basin has a single or multiple faucets that supply water (cold/hot) for washing and can include a spray attachment for quick rinsing.
The drain pipe is a P-shaped curved pipe, often made of galvanized steel, that extends down into the sink. The P-trap creates a barrier that prevents foul-smelling sewer gas from entering the house through the drains. The trap also keeps food particles that wash down the drain from clogging the pipes.
You should wipe away any grease after cooking instead of pouring it down your sink drains. This prevents clogging and can help keep the pipes in your home free of unwanted pests such as rats and cockroaches. Also, never dump coffee grounds, eggshells, or other sticky substances down the drain. These can cause a blockage that requires professional repairs.
If you find that your sink is slow to drain, it’s important to act quickly. If left unchecked, a clogged kitchen drain can lead to flooding, backed up water, and expensive plumbing repair bills. Some common clogs can be caused by hair, soap scum, grease, or food particles. You can try using a sink strainer basket, hot water, or natural homemade remedies to clear the blockage. If the problem persists, a plumber’s snake may be necessary.
It is a good idea to insulate any exposed plumbing pipes in your kitchen that enter or exit the wall. This helps prevent freezing and bursting in the winter, which can lead to serious water damage.
Drainage System
The drainage system removes wastewater from sinks, dishwashers, and garbage disposals and directs it into the sewage system. It consists of pipes that connect these fixtures to the drain channel and the main drainage line. Drainage systems help prevent the buildup of food particles and other debris that may clog drains. If these particles build up, they may contaminate the surrounding kitchen surfaces and produce foul odors.
A plumbing contractor can install a variety of drainage systems. One popular type is the Slot Drain, which eliminates grating and provides easy access to the drain channel for cleaning. The drain also doesn’t trap bacteria, making it a great option for kitchens.
Kitchen drainage systems are designed to transport waste water (also called sullage) from the sink and other washing areas in the kitchen to home sewer lines or septic tanks. The drainage pipe lines are usually constructed from CPVC, PEX, or galvanized steel. The piping is designed to handle the weight of the drain and its contents without being damaged by frequent use or extreme temperatures.
A kitchen faucet is connected to the water supply lines, bringing fresh water to the sink. The sink’s drainage system is designed to carry the used water back into the sewer or septic tank.
The drainage pipe is often shaped like an “S” or “P”, which helps to retain the sullage in the drain channel and keep foul-smelling sewer gas from entering the home. The pipe is also designed to allow for easy maintenance and cleaning.
You may have noticed a U- or S-shaped curved pipe below your sink. This is known as a drain trap, and it is responsible for facilitating faster draining by angling waste water downwards toward the sewage system. The drain trap should be regularly checked for clogs and to ensure that the drain channel is clear of obstructions.
The sink strainer is a crucial component of any kitchen sink’s drainage system. It protects the pipes from items that shouldn’t be disposed down the drain and keeps hair strands, food particles, and other materials from getting into the main pipe line. A drain tail piece, which is attached to the sink strainer, helps seal the trap and create a watertight connection with the rest of the pipes. The tail piece is also a vital part of the drainage system because it enables you to clean out the drain without having to take the entire strainer apart.
Venting System
Plumbing vents keep your drainage system in balance. While the drain pipes work to physically remove water and sewage from your home, the vent pipes supply fresh air into the drain pipes to keep the pressure equalized. Without a properly functioning venting system, pressure changes can cause your drain pipes to become blocked with debris and the result will be sewage and waste backing up into your home or building.
The plumbing vent system regulates the air pressure by connecting to a stack of ventilation pipes that run outside your house or structure. A vent pipe is required for every drainage fixture and the main vent stack in your roof. The vent stack is a collection of branch and circuit vents that connect to the drain pipes of each fixture. The individual vent pipes are required to have a pitch of 1/4 in. per foot and must be sized based on the drain they service.
For a sink, the best type of vent is called a loop vent. These vents are perfect for island sinks, as they can be hidden under the counter, out of sight and easy to maintain. They are a great solution for kitchens with a limited amount of space under the sink.
The key to a successful loop vent is the height at which it is installed. The vent must rise higher than the bottom of the P-trap and be a minimum of 42 in. from the floor before beginning its horizontal run to the vent stack. This provides enough clearance to avoid wastewater flowing into the vent stack. The height should also allow the loop to reach a minimum of 6 in. above the flood rim of the highest fixture served by it, such as a toilet or tub.
There are many different venting methods approved in the International Plumbing Code (IPC) for different types of installations. These different systems have been laboratory tested to establish sizing requirements and installation rules to ensure they provide adequate ventilation for the drainage system. There are four common venting options:
Fixtures
No kitchen or bathroom design is complete without the essential plumbing fixtures. The faucets, sinks, water filtration systems, showerheads and other fixtures are the “accessories” that add functionality and style to your space. These products are available in a wide range of styles and finishes, so you’re sure to find the perfect fixtures to complement your remodeled room.
The choice of fixture finish is an important one, because it impacts both the aesthetic and the durability of a kitchen. Stainless steel is the most common finish, but it’s not the only option. Other choices include bronze, oil-rubbed brass and even matte black. These finishes are available in a variety of styles, from traditional to modern. Some finish options are also more durable than others, so they’re better suited to busy, high-traffic areas.
Kitchen sinks come in a wide range of sizes, installation methods and materials to suit any style of home. For example, you might choose an undermount or drop-in sink based on your desired storage space and the size of your current cabinetry. You’ll also have a choice of single or double sinks and whether you want a separate pot filler.
Faucets are a popular upgrade for any sink and are available in a wide range of styles, shapes and colors. Some are designed for easy maintenance and cleaning. For example, a kitchen faucet with a brushed or satin finish hides fingerprints and water spots more easily than chrome. You can also find faucets with a touch-control system that eliminates the need for handles.
A water filtration system is another kitchen upgrade that can improve the quality of your family’s drinking water. Filters can be purchased in a range of sizes and styles, from pitchers to faucet-mounted filters. Some filters play a role in energy efficiency, as well.
As you consider your new kitchen remodel, start by determining what your family’s needs are and how they match with your design aesthetic. Then explore the many options available to you online or in person at a full-service kitchen and bath design showroom. An experienced design and remodeling expert can help you narrow down your choices based on your set criteria and budget.