How to Replace PVC Plumbing for Bathroom Sinks

PVC, or plastic pipes, are a good option for a bathroom sink, because they are relatively inexpensive, easy to install and resist corrosion, unlike brass pipes. Whether the pipes are metal or PVC, or if you are installing a new sink or replacing the pipes, the method to connect them is pretty much the same. Installing PVC bathroom sink pipes is easy enough that anyone can do it with just a few basic materials.

Things You'll Need

• Pipe wrench
• PVC pipe kit
• Teflon tape (optional)
• Hacksaw (optional)
• Cloth
• Bucket (optional)

Instructions

1. Turn off the water valve underneath the sink with your hand to cut off the water supply. This may not be necessary, but is a good idea just in case somebody accidentally tries to use the water before you are done.

2. Take off the old pipes and remove the nut that connects the drain line to the underneath of the sink with a wrench. Unfasten the pop-up stopper if the sink has one, so you can remove the pipe. Undo the nut connecting the pipeline to the wall with the wrench. Set a bucket nearby, just in case there is water left in the pipes.

3. Trim off any excess from the pipes with a hacksaw if they are not an exact fit. Place the old pipes next to the new PVC pipes to use them as a template for the length.

4. Attach the drain pipes by placing the drain part into the hole at the base of the sink. Tighten the nut with your pipe wrench. Connect the next straight pipe with the wrench.

5. Connect the "P" pipe, or the trap, and attach it to the last pipe with a wrench. Add the last curved piece to the "P" pipe with the wrench. Attach the pipe to the opening in the wall and tighten the nut with the wrench. Put the bar back in the pop-up stopper in the sink, if necessary.

6. Re-tighten all the nuts on the pipes, but do not over tighten them or you could damage the pipes. Check that there are no leaks by turning on the water with the valve underneath the sink. Use Teflon tape to seal any leaks.

References

• Home Repair Bathroom Sink -- Down the Drain
• How to Connect a Bathroom Sink Drain