What Is Kitchen Sink Plumbing?

Kitchen sink plumbing is an assortment of pipes and plumbing parts that work together to support everyday activities. It may seem overwhelming at first, but if you take the time to learn about it, it’ll be easier to troubleshoot issues and solve them on your own.

The primary components of a sink’s plumbing system include the water supply, drain and waste systems. Each component needs to function correctly to prevent blockages, sewer gas leaks and other issues that could lead to code violations.

Water Supply

The water supply is one of the most basic elements of plumbing in kitchen sinks. It includes both hot and cold lines that supply the faucets.

The pipes in the system are usually made of soft copper, and they run from the main line at the house through each faucet. They are then joined to the drain line that removes waste.

If you have a leak or break in your home’s water supply, it will affect the pressure of the water that runs through your faucets and other sinks. It is best to call a plumber if this happens, as they may be able to fix it quickly and easily.

If you find that the water pressure in your sink is low, you should first check the shut-off valves underneath or behind each of your sinks. If these are faulty, they will cut off the flow of water to that specific fixture.

Drainage

When you use the kitchen sink, food, gunk, grease and hair tend to make their way down the pipes. Over time, they build up and can get stuck inside the pipes, causing them to become clogged.

If your sink drain is clogged, you have a few options for getting it unstuck. One option is a plunger.

You can also try a combination of baking soda and white vinegar. They create a bubbling reaction that helps dislodge the larger pieces of muck and break up small ones.

Another option is a plumber’s snake or an auger. If you don’t have one, you can easily create a makeshift version with a wire coat hanger. Untwist the hanger and create a hook (the size of a paper clip) at the end, which you can use to catch and grab onto the debris.

Faucets

Often referred to as faucets or taps, kitchen sink faucets provide running water for dishwashing, cooking, handwashing, and other tasks. They come in a wide variety of styles, sizes, and material options that coordinate with any desired kitchen aesthetic.

Faucets can be crafted from brass, stainless steel, plastic, or zinc. These materials vary in their appearance, cleanability, spotting and rust resistance, and price.

A stainless-steel finish is usually the easiest to clean, while brushed nickel prevents fingerprints and watermarks. Chrome is another popular option that combines a shiny style with a corrosion-resistant finish. Solid brass is higher in maintenance and more susceptible to spotting, but it’s the most durable.

Valves

The shut-off valves in your kitchen sink control the supply of water to your faucet. They help prevent leaks and wastage.

They also save you money on your water bill by shutting off the flow of water to the sink when it’s not being used.

Typical kitchen sinks have two shut-off valves – one for hot and one for cold water. However, some homes feature a third shut-off valve that serves the dishwasher or an on-site electric water heater stored under the sink.

Stop valves come in a variety of types, including compression, ball, and globe valves. Each type is designed for a specific application and comes with different features.

Gas Lines

A home with a natural gas system requires periodic maintenance and service. A leaky gas line can cause a smell of gas in the house and an increase in your gas bill.

If the pipes are older or worn out, it could be a good time to replace them. A homeowner might also need new lines if they are adding or upgrading appliances, such as a stove or dishwasher.

Gas pipes come in various materials, including copper, galvanized steel, and black iron. Some utilities prohibit the use of these materials, so check with your local utility before installing any.