The Kitchen Remodeler's Checklist: 7 Overlooked Plumbing Parts
Most people focus on cabinets, countertops, and big appliances during a kitchen remodel. They might pick out a sink and the perfect faucet—but forget the rest. It's not that they’re careless; it’s just that many homeowners simply aren’t aware of all the options and details available to them when it comes to plumbing and accessories.
Yet smaller, easily missed parts dramatically impact function, hygiene, and long-term satisfaction. That’s why this checklist was designed—to help homeowners, designers, and contractors make informed decisions that go beyond surface-level upgrades and ensure a remodel that functions beautifully behind the scenes.
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Planning a kitchen remodel? Don’t overlook the plumbing parts that make it all work behind the scenes. This checklist covers 7 often-forgotten upgrades—from garbage disposals and sink trim kits to under-sink filtration and accessory faucets—that improve function, hygiene, and long-term satisfaction in your new kitchen.
1. Garbage Disposal That Matches Your Kitchen Needs
Continuous vs. Batch Feed – Continuous feed models stay on as long as the switch is activated, allowing for uninterrupted grinding of food scraps. Batch feed disposals, on the other hand, only operate when a special cover is inserted, which makes them safer—especially in homes with children.
- Quiet Models Matter – Especially in open floor plans, look for insulated motors and noise-reduction chambers. However, keep in mind that a disposal is typically used for only short bursts at a time. Consider whether quiet operation is truly a top priority, or if saving under-sink storage space might benefit your kitchen's daily functionality even more.
- Space-Saving Designs – Some units are low-profile or offset to preserve valuable cabinet storage. Keeping under-sink space clear allows room for cleaning supplies, filtration systems, or easier access to shut-off valves and connections.
- Power + Motor Type – For high-use kitchens, opt for a Permanent Magnet Motor. It reaches full torque faster and consumes less energy than standard AC motors. Permanent magnet motors also offer more consistent grinding performance and are typically smaller and quieter than traditional AC options, making them ideal for modern kitchens.
2. Matching Sink Trim Kits
Most remodelers remember the faucet—but not the sink strainer or disposal flange that surround it.
- Visual Consistency – Mismatched finishes or stamped metal from generic kits can spoil a high-end look. Unbranded strainer and disposal trims are available from various manufacturers to maintain the clean aesthetic.
- Finish Types – Physical Vapor Deposition (PVD) resists scratches, tarnish, and corrosion for longer-lasting shine. Other finish types include powder-coated and plated options that offer style and protection depending on your budget and design needs.
3. Air Switches and Control Mechanisms
Skip the wall switch near a wet sink. Air switches are a safer, smarter choice for disposal activation. Since they use air pressure instead of electricity, there's no risk of electric shock when operating the switch with wet hands.
- How They Work – Push a countertop button that uses air pressure to trigger the power module below.
- Finish Matching – Available in matching styles to your faucet, air gap, and other hardware. Precisely matched finishes enhance the overall design harmony and make the installation look intentional and complete.
- Safer for Wet Hands – No electrical contact at the switch point means peace of mind.
4. Decorative Air Gaps
Required by code in many jurisdictions, air gaps prevent dirty water from backflowing into your dishwasher.
- Looks Matter – Air gaps sit on your countertop; choose one in a matching finish, as it helps unify your design and avoid visual clutter.
- Cohesive Finishing Touch – Because they're installed next to your faucet, these small parts have a big impact. Select one that complements your faucet finish for a clean, intentional look.
5. Under-Sink Water Filtration
Remodeling? It’s the perfect time to add water filtration. With cabinets open and plumbing accessible, installation is far easier now than after the fact.
- Eco-Friendly + Cost-Effective – Ditch bottled water to reduce landfill waste and long-term costs. A home system can pay for itself in a matter of months.
- Better Water Quality – Depending on the model, filtration systems can remove chlorine, sediment, heavy metals, and even some bacteria or viruses. It's important to match your filtration goals to the system's capabilities.
- Easy to Add – Systems are compact and often mount under the sink. Pairing with a dedicated faucet creates a seamless user experience.
Options: Single-stage, multi-stage, and reverse osmosis systems are the most common. Multi-stage filters provide broader coverage for contaminants but may require more space and regular maintenance. Reverse osmosis offers exceptional filtration performance, but is slower, uses more water, and requires a dedicated tank. For most homes, a single-stage carbon filter strikes the right balance—it improves taste and odor, is easy to maintain, and doesn't take up much space.
6. Instant Hot Water Tank + Chilled Water System
Go beyond traditional plumbing with on-demand water temperature control. These systems provide instant, filtered hot or cold water for tea, oatmeal, pasta prep, chilled drinking water, or quick cleanup — no waiting, no extra appliances, and no wasted energy.
- Under Sink Hot Water Tank – Instantly dispense near-boiling water for tea, cooking, or cleaning.
- Water Chiller – Under-sink chillers deliver cold, filtered water straight to a dedicated faucet.
- Convenience and Countertop Clarity – No more kettles or pitchers cluttering up your prep space.
7. Accessory Faucets
A second faucet isn’t just a luxury—it’s a smart solution. It provides well-designed and functional access to filtered water, near-boiling water, or chilled water, all sourced from your under-sink appliances like filters, hot tanks, and water chillers.
- Purpose-Built – Designed for use with filtered water, hot water, or both.
- Finish Matching – Available in dozens of styles and colors to blend seamlessly with your kitchen design.
- Function Meets Elegance – Add a refined, functional focal point without crowding your main faucet.
Conclusion
The flashier parts of a kitchen get all the love—but these overlooked parts make the kitchen function better for day to day activities. They are also simple upgrades that bring functionality and convenience to one of the most used spaces in your home.
A well-designed kitchen is more than just beautiful surfaces and trendy appliances—it’s also about how smoothly everything works together behind the scenes. By including these often-overlooked plumbing parts in your remodel plan, you’ll enhance functionality, improve convenience, and increase long-term value.
- Bookmark this checklist or share it with your contractor.
- Say goodbye to cut corners and big box compromise — you don’t need to settle for the limited, generic plumbing parts offered at home improvement or hardware chains. Shop curated, high-quality products built for fit and finish.
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