How to Disconnect a Laundry Tub
The old-fashioned laundry tub is losing favor these days. They take up space, aren't very pretty and serve mainly as a place to empty the washing machine. Many new homes are being built with cabinet space in the laundry and a smaller, nicer looking sink set into a cabinet. The washing machine hook-up and drain are in a plastic in-wall mounted box that doesn't take up any space. Removing the old tub isn't hard, but requires a few tools and a little know-how. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Bucket or tray to catch water
- Large channel lock pliers
- Small channel lock pliers
- Rags
- 1 1/2 inch PVC pipe cap
Instructions
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1
Shut off the water to the tub faucets by turning the valves that should be located under the tub. If there are no shut-off valves, you'll have to shut off the main water supply and cap the pipes after removing the tub.
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2
Remove the riser tube or hose connections between the sink faucet and the shut-off valves. Place a bucket or tray under the shut-off valves to catch any water that spills from the tubes. Use the small channel lock pliers to loosen the slip joint nuts.
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3
Disconnect the washing machine hoses from the faucet connectors. Unplug the washer and shut off the valves first. These connections are often very tight and you may need the channel lock pliers to loosen the hose connections. Take care not to damage the hoses or the hose ends and empty the hoses into the tub after removing them.
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4
Disconnect the p-trap. Most p-traps are fit together with slip joints. Just loosen the slip joint nuts and take the p-trap apart. The trap will be full of water so put the tray or bucket under the trap to catch the water.
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5
Remove the screws that hold the laundry tub to the wall, if there are any. You should be able to move the tub now. The plastic and fiberglass tubs can be easily moved by one person. The old, large cast iron tubs may weigh over 400 lbs., requiring plenty of help.
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6
Plug the drain pipe temporarily. Either stuff a rag in the pipe or use a threaded cap over the end, to cover the hole. This prevents sewer gases from escaping.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure you have turned the supply valves off by turning them clockwise until they are tight. Lowering the ends of the washer hoses to a bucket or tray on the floor will empty them of water.
If you're planning on changing the plumbing or electrical, be sure to check with your local building and code enforcement department first for any permits and local code requirements.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Marco Falcioni
