Don’t worry if the garbage disposal you’re using has finally given up the ghost. It is relatively easy to remove it and install a new one. But you need to have the right materials and tools. This article shows you how to do it. Make sure you have everything you need before starting this project.
Step One: Choose the correct type of garbage disposal
It is easy to determine the type of garbage disposal that you need to buy. Look at the underside of your countertop and you will see the shape of your old, broken unit. However, if it is already worn out and you cannot find the brand or any identifying mark on its body, there are things that can help you determine what type of unit you will need. Here’s how to do it.
- Think about the features you want your garbage disposal to have. There are several things you need to consider such as what type of plumbing you have and whether noise is an issue with your family.
- Will you be letting your children use the garbage disposal? If you want, think about buying a batch feed unit instead of a continuous feed model. They are more expensive but are safer for children as they use a cap before they can be lit. The continuous version works as soon as you press the button which can be dangerous if someone sticks their hand or accidentally drops a spoon on the drain. If the drain is connected directly to your septic tank, you need a unit that is compatible with the septic tank.
- If your family can’t stand unnecessary noise, you should get a quieter unit.
- Do you have an average family? If you do, you will need a unit with only a small horsepower, about 1/3 hp. But if you have a bigger house, you may need a bigger unit which is about ½ horsepower.
Step Two: Gather all the tools and supplies
You will need the following tools to install your new garbage disposal unit.
- Safety equipment such as protective mask, safety goggles and work gloves
- A screwdriver
- Electric cord
- A suitable wrench
- Plumber’s stock
- Pliers
- Hacksaw
Step Three: Remove the old garbage disposal unit
Before removing the old unit, make sure the power is off. Secure the control panel so that no one can turn it on while you are removing and installing the new unit.
1. Remove the hose from the dishwasher. Use the screwdriver to loosen the hose screws. Then remove from the dishwasher.
2. Unplug that waste duct. Remove the waste line or ‘P’ trap from the garbage disposal with a wrench. You must loosen the nut that connects the trap to the disposal unit. Place a container under the trap to catch anything that will fall down as you loosen the trap.
3 Remove the old disposal unit. Insert the screwdriver into the lug of the mounting ring and turn it counter-clockwise to loosen the unit.
4. Remove the rest of the old unit mounting assembly. The sink sleeve ring, sink sleeve, plumber’s putty, fiber gasket and flange must be removed. Clean the sink opening, flange and sleeve.
Step Four: Install the new garbage disposal unit
1. Set the wiring of the disposal unit. Some models have wires that are already attached, while some do not. If the unit you purchased does not have the wires attached, remove the plate under the unit and connect the wires according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Follow the color coding of the wires. White wires should be connected to white and black to black wires. Return the plate cover once you are done connecting the wires.
2. Install the flange and ring. Get some plumber’s putty and form a tube about 10 inches long and half an inch thick. Place it on the underside of the flange under the sink. Insert the drainage flange into the hole and press it so that the putty is distributed evenly. Then place the backup ring, the fiber gasket and the mounting ring.
Tighten the mounting ring screws with a screwdriver. Make sure the tightness is even by tightening the screws alternately. Use a knife to trim the putty that may overflow around the flange.
3. Install the disposal unit. Place the garbage disposal on the mounting ring. Make sure its outlet faces the drain pipe connection. Tighten its screws so that it stays in place.
4. Connect the unit to the trap P. Measure the required length of the discharge pipe. Then cut it using a hacksaw. Connect this hose to the outlet of the unit, carefully following the manufacturer’s instructions. Fix the dishwasher outlet.
5. Check if the disposal is working. Turn on the power. Open the faucet to let the water flow into the sink. Turn on the garbage disposal unit and check if it is working properly. Check for leaks in the connections under the sink. Then run some food waste to see if the unit can grind and dispose of the food properly.
Hello, My name is Justin Curtis, and I am the creator of Mr. Garbage Disposal.
While I am not a professional plumber, I am quite the handyman. I work as an accountant, but outside of work, I like to work with my hands and live frugally.
2 years ago, the garbage disposal at my house broke due to a faulty part. After purchasing the new part and looking at the installation fees, I realized it was out of my budget. To solve my problem, I took it upon myself to learn everything I could about garbage disposal. I learned the best affordable parts, where to get them, and how to install them. Through this experience, I discovered my passion for working with my hands.
Considering that many people do not know much about garbage disposal, I would like to share my experience and knowledge with you, which is why I created Mr. Garbage Disposal.
My goal for Mr. Garbage Disposal is to be the place where people learn about trash disposal and how to fix it, while not breaking the bank along the way.
