How to Install Utility Tubs & Pipes

An installed drain.

To fully install a utility tub requires not only that you put the tub in place, but also its pipes. Knowledge of the entire utility tub installation process allows you to execute and be in total control of the project. Utility tubs offer increased functionality to a variety of spaces, including gardens, laundry rooms and garages. With basic tools and skills, a novice plumber can easily install a utility tub and its pipes.

Things You'll Need

• Drill
• Drill bits
• Concrete anchors
• Fasteners
• Sink drain kit
• Sink strainer
• Pipe-thread seal tape
• ABS glue
• ABS adapter
• Level

Instructions

1. Install the utility tub by fastening it to the wall and the floor through the screw holes on the tub's rear face and at its feet. If necessary, drill holes into concrete, insert concrete anchors and fasten through the holes into concrete anchors.

2. Glue an ABS adapter onto the ABS drain line that protrudes from the wall by thoroughly coating the inside of the adapter fitting and the outside of the protruding drain pipe with ABS glue. Press the fittings together, twist one-quarter turn and hold in place for approximately 30 seconds. Allow the glue to cure according to manufacturer's instructions.

3. Install the pipe that runs from the adapter to the lower portion of the p-trap by first using the tape measure to determine the length of the pipe. The p-trap's upper opening must rest directly beneath the utility tub's sink strainer. Hold the p-trap directly beneath the tub's strainer and measure from the adapter to the trap's lower opening. Cut the pipe, which is provided with the sink drain kit, to length using a hacksaw. Insert and tighten the pipe into both the ABS adapter compression fitting and the p-trap's compression fitting.

4. Install the pipe that runs from the tub's strainer to the upper portion of the p-trap by first holding in place the pipe that runs from the strainer to the upper portion of the p-trap. Place a level on top of the pipe installed in the previous step. Raise and lower the pipe until the level shows a slope of at least 1/4-inch per foot. Mark this position on the pipe that runs from the strainer to the p-trap. Cut the marked pipe using a hacksaw and install to the p-trap's compression fitting and strainer's threaded fitting. Wrap a double-thick layer of pipe-thread seal tape around all threaded joints.

5. Run water through the tub and check the newly installed pipes for leaks.

Tips & Warnings

• Save yourself a return trip to the hardware store by measuring pipe diameters prior to purchasing ABS adapters.

• Check building codes prior to altering or installing drain lines.

References

• Lasco Fittings: The "Do's and Don'ts" of Assembling Threaded Plastic Fittings