Can you hook up an outdoor sink to hose?

Quick Answer

Yes, you can hook up an outdoor sink to a hose. An outdoor sink needs a water source and drain just like an indoor sink. The water source can be a garden hose connected to an outdoor faucet. The drain can go directly into the ground or tie into existing plumbing. Hooking up an outdoor sink to a hose is a relatively easy DIY project.

Requirements for an Outdoor Sink

An outdoor sink needs three basic components:

• Water supply – This is usually a garden hose connected to an outdoor faucet or spigot.
• Drain – The sink drainage can go directly into a leach field underground or tie into existing plumbing.
• Sink fixture – This is the actual outdoor sink basin, which can be mounted on a stand or hung on a wall.

As long as you have a way to provide water and deal with drainage, an outdoor sink can be hooked up just like an indoor sink. The main difference is securing the water supply hose and providing an outlet for drainage.

Water Supply Options

The most common way to provide water to an outdoor sink is by connecting a garden hose to an outdoor spigot. Here are some water supply options:

Garden Hose

This is the easiest method. Attach a flexible garden hose to your outdoor faucet using hose fittings. Run the hose over to the sink location and attach it to the faucet inlet using an adapter. Make sure the hose is long enough to reach the sink without pulling or straining.

PVC Pipe

For a permanent setup, you can plumb PVC pipe underground from the outdoor faucet to the sink. Install a shutoff valve near the faucet to turn water on and off. Use proper burial depth and pipe materials for your climate.

Water Storage Tank

Collect rainwater or fill a large storage tank and use a small pump to supply water to the sink. This is more work but doesn’t rely on an outdoor faucet. Consider filtering the water.

Tap Into Indoor Plumbing

If the outdoor sink will be close to the house, tap into the indoor plumbing by installing an additional supply line underground from the main water line to the sink. Include a shutoff valve inside.

Drainage Options

The sink will need proper drainage. Here are some options:

Leach Field

The easiest drainage method is to install a leach field underground. Dig a pit lined with gravel, set the sink drain over it, and run a direct pipe down into the gravel leach bed. No need to connect to existing plumbing.

Dry Well

Similar to a leach field, a dry well allows the sink water to drain directly into a buried pit filled with gravel. The gravel helps disperse the water underground.

Connect to Existing Plumbing

You can tie the sink drain directly into the house drainage pipes. This involves installing a proper P-trap and running DWV pipe underground to the sewer/septic system. Proper slope and materials are required.

Splash Block

A splash block directs drainage away from the foundation. Place one beneath the sink drain pipe outlet. Keep in mind this doesn’t actually capture the wastewater.

Choosing an Outdoor Sink

Once you know how you’ll supply water and handle drainage, it’s time to pick the actual outdoor sink. Consider the following:

• Mounting – Pick a freestanding sink base or a wall-mounted style.
• Basin material – Stainless steel, stone composite, and enameled steel are common.
• Faucet style – Match the faucet to your water supply, flexible hose or fixed pipe.
• Frost-proof – For colder climates, choose a sink and plumbing designed to prevent freezing.
• Use – Decide on a utility sink or one suitable for washing dishes and hands.

Shop around at hardware stores, home centers, and online to find the ideal outdoor sink for your needs, space, and budget.

Here is a comparison of some popular outdoor sink options:

Sink	Basin Material	Mounting	Faucet	Drain	Price
Novatto Verte Wall Mount	Stainless steel	Wall mount	Single lever	Rear 3.5″ opening	$250
Fiora Utility Sink and Stand	Vitreous china	Free standing	Dual knob	Bottom center drain	$370
Sobro Smart Sink	Stone composite	Freestanding	Gooseneck faucet	Rear drain	$650

Step-by-Step Installation

Installing an outdoor sink hooked up to a garden hose involves the following basic steps:

1. Gather supplies – Sink, hose, hose attachments, drainage components, tools.
2. Prepare the location – Clear the space, layout plumbing and drainage.
3. Mount the sink – Follow instructions to mount freestanding or wall mount sink.
4. Install drainage – Dig leach pit or trench, setup dry well or other drainage.
5. Connect water – Attach hose to spigot, run to sink faucet inlet, secure hose.
6. Connect drain – Install outlet drain pipe into leach field or sewer connection.
7. Test – Turn on water, check for leaks, verify proper drainage.
8. Finish setup – Add backfill, gravel, soil and make final adjustments.

Be sure to follow all local building codes for outdoor plumbing projects. Also take care to use leak-proof fittings and drain components rated for outdoor use.

Tips for Outdoor Sink Success

Here are some useful tips to keep in mind:

• Use soapy water to lubricate slip fittings for easy assembly.
• Make sure hose is food-grade drinking water safe.
• Insulate or heat trace drain lines in freezing climates.
• Use a sediment filter on the hose connection to prevent debris buildup.
• Label water shutoff valves clearly for easy access.
• Check if a permit or inspection is required for major drainage work.
• Consider an on-demand hot water heater for the convenience of hot water.

Taking the time to properly plan and install your outdoor sink will ensure it provides functionality and enjoyment for years to come.

Conclusion

Yes, hooking up an outdoor sink using a garden hose and basic plumbing components is definitely a DIY-friendly project. With proper preparation and planning, you can have a fully functional sink set up outdoors with hot and cold running water in no time. Just be sure to account for proper drainage based on your specific setup. And take weather conditions into consideration to prevent freezing. With the right sink, secure hose connection, and well-thought drainage plan, you can easily add the convenience of an outdoor sink to your patio, garage, or garden area.