Kitchen Faucet, Garbage Disposal, and Disposal Air Switch Installation

I am building a kitchen in my basement.  My counter tops were recently installed, but I still needed to install the faucet, garbage disposal, and garbage disposal air switch.  This blog post will show you how I did it.

First I installed the garbage disposal air switch.  Given the location behind the sink, this is easiest to accomplish before installing the drain and garbage disposal.  I never knew these switches existed until my electrician told me about them.  They install in the same size countertop hole as a faucet sprayer or a soap dispenser.  The best part is their is no electricity in the switch, so no risk of shock on a wet countertop. The switch uses pressurized air to activate a separate electrical box under your sink.  This is the BESTILL sink top garbage disposal switch kit that I installed and an outlet tester like the one that I used:

It's available in multiple finishes and works great!  Here is a video that shows how I installed it:

Next I installed the kitchen faucet.  I purchased a commercial-style faucet on Amazon that I really like.  It has one master water temperature and flow control and both a pot filler and a pull down sprayer.  This Beelee faucet is available in both oil rubbed bronze and brushed nickel finishes.  Here is a link to the listing on Amazon as well as the hardware needed to extend the supply lines: 

Here is a video of how to install this faucet.  It's actually really easy because of the tightening system used.  Most faucets require a basin wrench and are a real pain to install because of the limited access behind the sink.  This faucet is a snap to install with only a screwdriver needed to secure it to the countertop.  Just make sure that the supply lines are tight inside the faucet as shown in the video:

Then I installed the garbage disposal.  I chose the Insinkerator Badger 5 disposal.  I have had great experience with the same model in a different kitchen.  It's a great combination of low price and good performance.  Plus, when you buy an Insinkerator disposal, you can easily replace it with another unit if it eventually fails due to the unique way they attach to the sink.  Here is a video to show you how to install a garbage disposal:

Here is a link to the exact garbage disposal that I installed, a drain kit, and the plumber's putty you will need:

Last I checked everything for leaks.  Place a bucket or pot underneath the drain before you turn the water back on.  When I think everything is good, I like to leave a dry paper towel under the plumbing and check it periodically for the next few days.  The paper towel makes it easy to see even a single drop of water.