Most people would agree that having a utility sink in your garage is handy for several reasons. You could find a sink helpful for cleaning up after a painting project, keeping your vehicle spotless, maintaining your garden tools, or just having an extra wash-off station outside your clean home. But what if you don’t have a plumbing hookup in your garage? Can you still install a utility sink? It’s possible, but there are a few plumbing considerations. Learn more about how to add a utility sink in the garage without existing plumbing.

How Can You Add a Utility Sink Without Plumbing?

If you don’t have existing plumbing connections inside your garage, you have two options for installing a utility sink: Install plumbing connections or install a portable sink.

To add plumbing to your garage, a professional plumber must run water and sewer lines to your home’s existing plumbing systems.

Alternatively, you may consider adding a portable sink if you don’t want to commit to installing plumbing. If you plan to use your sink less frequently or have limited space in your garage, this may be a better option since it’s entirely portable. The downside is frequently having to refill and empty your supply and waste tanks.

Things To Consider Before Adding a Utility Sink in the Garage

Before you consider plumbing a utility sink in a garage, consider these additional facets of selecting the right type of sink, installation procedures, and other long-term factors:

  • Plumbing codes. Before adding any plumbing to your home, checking your local plumbing codes should be your priority. Violating these codes can have severe consequences for your health and the safety of your home. That’s why having a professional plumber is always recommended for new or replacement plumbing installations.
  • Heating. Pipes will likely freeze in colder climates without proper heating or insulation. This means that your garage—which likely has no heat or insulation—is a higher risk zone for this issue. Consider adding insulation if your pipes are exposed.
  • Installation interruptions. Depending on how far your interior water pipes are from your unplumbed garage, installation may be more or less invasive to your day-to-day. While your piping may be installed through the wall, your drainage must go through the floor and that means cutting through concrete.
  • Sink type. There are several types of utility sinks to select from, and choosing the right fit for your available space and its intended use may be a challenge. Size, drainage, durability, capacity, and more play significant roles in the long-term use of your utility sink. Consult with a professional plumber for selection advice and reliable sink installation services.
  • Faucet type. Similar to selecting your sink type, finding the right faucet for your needs has just as many considerations. Various features such as material, detachability, dual-spray, and more can be beneficial for different types of uses. Count on your nearby plumbing expert for faucet installation and selection services.

How To Install a Utility Sink in a Garage

With Existing Plumbing

  1. Shut off the main water valve.
  2. Locate your water pipes and drainpipe to position your sink.
  3. Lay out an installation plan.
  4. Measure and mark your water pipes for a T fitting and your drainage pipe for a Y fitting.
  5. Cut your water pipes with a tube cutter and your drain pipe with a hand saw.
  6. Solder the T fittings to the water pipes and use primer and glue to fit the Y fitting on the drain pipe.
  7. Fit a PVC trap to the Y fitting on the drain pipe.
  8. Place the sink beneath the PVC trap and attach the sink piping to the trap.
  9. If you’re installing a faucet, secure it using plumber’s putty.
  10. Attach flexible hoses to the faucet.
  11. Attach the flexible hoses to the hot and cold water T fittings.
  12. Turn the water back on.
  13. Test that the sink is functioning correctly and that there are no leaks.

Without Existing Plumbing

  1. Call a plumber.

Yes, it’s as simple and necessary as that! Without existing plumbing in your garage, installing a utility sink will require expert planning, retrofitting, and likely reconstruction. Don’t risk damaging your garage or interior plumbing by attempting to DIY this project.

Related Content: Home Remodeling Guide--Plumber's Edition

Let the Experts Handle Plumbing a Utility Sink

Are you thinking of plumbing a utility sink in a garage? Avoid plumbing disasters by relying on the experts at Benjamin Franklin Plumbing to tackle the job. Our experts will help you select the best option for your space and provide complete transparency on costs, timelines, and long-term maintenance needs. To get started, call us at 1-877-BEN-1776 or book an appointment online.