Replacing a garbage disposal can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With a few simple tools and a little bit of know-how, you can easily replace your old disposal and get your sink back in working order. In this article, we’ll walk you through the entire process, from gathering your materials to installing the new disposal. However, if you are a first-timer and not confident enough to do this job yourself, then don’t hesitate to call a qualified plumber at your area to help you out.
Before you begin, you’ll need to gather a few tools and materials. You’ll need a new garbage disposal, a wrench, a screwdriver, a flashlight, and a pair of pliers. You’ll also need to turn off the water supply to your sink before you start working, so be sure to locate the shut-off valve and turn it off. Once you have all of your tools and materials, you’re ready to get started. First, you’ll need to disconnect the old disposal from the sink. To do this, use a wrench to loosen the nuts that hold the disposal in place. Once the nuts are loose, you can pull the disposal down and disconnect it from the sink drain. Next, you’ll need to disconnect the electrical wires from the disposal. To do this, use a screwdriver to loosen the screws that hold the wires in place. Once the screws are loose, you can pull the wires off of the disposal terminals.
Now that the old disposal is disconnected, you can install the new disposal. To do this, first, place the new disposal in the sink drain. Then, use a wrench to tighten the nuts that hold the disposal in place. Next, connect the electrical wires to the disposal terminals. To do this, push the wires onto the terminals until they click into place. Finally, turn on the water supply to your sink and check for leaks. If there are no leaks, then you have successfully replaced your garbage disposal. Congratulations!
Safety First
Before you begin, it’s crucial to take the following safety precautions to prevent electrical shock or injury:
- Disconnect the power supply: Turn off the circuit breaker or remove the fuse that supplies power to the disposal. Double-check that the power is off at the disposal by pressing the reset button. If it doesn’t reset, the power is still off, and you can proceed.
- Turn off the water supply: Locate the water shutoff valve under the sink and turn it off to prevent water from spraying during the replacement process.
- Clear the disposal: Using a flashlight, inspect the disposal chamber and remove any food debris or foreign objects that may obstruct the replacement.
- Wear appropriate gear: Don safety glasses and gloves to protect your eyes and hands from sharp edges or flying debris.
- Have a bucket or tarp ready: Water may drain from the disposal during the replacement, so have a bucket or tarp positioned to catch any spills.
- Use caution: The disposal may have sharp edges, so handle it with care to avoid cuts or scrapes.
Gather Your Tools
Replacing a garbage disposal is a relatively simple task that can be completed in under an hour. Before you begin, gather all of the necessary tools:
Tools Needed:
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| Adjustable wrench | Used to loosen and tighten nuts and bolts. |
| Basin wrench | A specialized wrench designed to loosen and tighten the lock nut on the garbage disposal. |
| Channel-lock pliers | Used to grip and hold the garbage disposal and its components. |
| Screwdriver | Used to remove and install screws. |
| Utility knife | Used to cut the electrical wires and the discharge hose. |
| Flashlight | Used to illuminate the work area. |
| Safety glasses | Used to protect your eyes from debris. |
| Gloves | Used to protect your hands from sharp edges and chemicals. |
Additional Materials:
In addition to the tools, you will also need the following materials:
- New garbage disposal
- Electrical tape
- Plumber’s putty
- Discharge hose (if not included with the new disposal)
- Wire nuts (if not included with the new disposal)
Disconnect the Power
Before replacing your disposal, it’s crucial to ensure your safety by disconnecting its power. This step is paramount to prevent any potential electrical hazards during the removal and replacement process.
| Power Disconnection Method | Steps |
|---|---|
| Circuit Breaker | Locate the circuit breaker panel and identify the breaker labeled “Garbage Disposal.” Flip it to the “Off” position. |
| Fuse Box | Access the fuse box and locate the fuse labeled “Garbage Disposal.” Carefully remove the fuse to cut off power. |
| Electrical Outlet | If your disposal is plugged into an electrical outlet, simply unplug it to disconnect the power. Ensure the outlet is not near water sources to avoid potential shocks. |
Once the power is disconnected, you can proceed to the next step, which involves accessing the disposal unit under your sink.
Drain the Water
Before you begin working on your garbage disposal, it’s important to drain the water. This will help to prevent water from leaking out and damaging your floor or cabinets. To drain the water, follow these steps:
1. Turn off the power to the garbage disposal.
To do this, flip the circuit breaker that powers the garbage disposal to the “off” position.
2. Open the water supply to the garbage disposal.
This will help to flush out any remaining water.
3. Locate the drain plug on the bottom of the garbage disposal.
The drain plug is usually a small, plastic plug that is located on the bottom of the garbage disposal. It may be difficult to see, but it is usually located near the center of the disposal.
4. Once you have located the drain plug, remove it.
The drain plug is usually removed by turning it counterclockwise. Once you have removed the drain plug, water will begin to drain out of the garbage disposal. Allow all of the water to drain out before proceeding.
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Turn off the power to the garbage disposal |
| 2 | Open the water supply to the garbage disposal |
| 3 | Locate the drain plug on the bottom of the garbage disposal |
| 4 | Remove the drain plug |
Disconnect the Disposal
Turn Off the Electricity
Locate the circuit breaker or fuse box and turn off the power to the disposal. This is a safety measure to prevent electric shock while working on the disposal.
Disconnect the Water Supply
Locate the water supply line connected to the disposal and turn off the water valve. This will prevent water from flowing into the disposal while it is being disconnected.
Remove the Drain Line
Locate the drain line connected to the disposal and loosen the clamps securing it. Carefully remove the drain line from the disposal.
Disconnect the Electrical Wires
Disconnect the electrical wires connected to the disposal. Note the color of the wires and their respective terminals for proper reconnection later.
Unmount the Disposal
Locate the mounting bolts securing the disposal to the sink flange. Using a wrench, loosen the bolts and carefully remove the disposal from the sink.
| Bolt Size | Typical Wrench Size |
|---|---|
| 1/4 inch | 5/16 inch |
| 5/16 inch | 3/8 inch |
| 3/8 inch | 7/16 inch |
Remove the Old Disposal
1. Disconnect the Power
Before working on the disposal, safety should be your top priority. Unplug the disposal from the power source to prevent electrical shock and injury. Locate the electrical cord and follow it to the wall outlet or junction box. Disconnect the cord by grasping the plug and pulling it straight out.
2. Shut Off the Water Supply
Next, turn off the water supply to the disposal. This will prevent water from flowing into the unit while you’re working on it. Find the water supply valve below the sink and turn it clockwise to shut off the water.
3. Disconnect the Drain Line
The drain line connects the disposal to the dishwasher and sink. Locate the drain line and disconnect it from the disposal by loosening the hose clamp with a screwdriver or pliers. Be careful not to spill any water that may be in the line.
4. Disconnect the Dishwasher Drain Line
If your dishwasher is connected to the disposal, you’ll need to disconnect its drain line as well. Find the dishwasher drain line and disconnect it from the disposal by loosening the hose clamp with a screwdriver or pliers.
5. Remove the Mounting Bolts
The disposal is typically held in place with three mounting bolts. Locate these bolts and remove them using a wrench or socket. Be careful not to drop the bolts into the disposal.
6. Lift Out the Disposal
Once the bolts are removed, you can carefully lift the disposal out of the sink. Be aware that the disposal may be heavy, so it’s best to have someone assist you. Grip the disposal firmly and lift it up and out of the sink.
| Tool | Description |
|---|---|
| Wrench or socket | For removing mounting bolts |
| Screwdriver or pliers | For loosening hose clamps |
Prepare the New Disposal
To ensure a smooth installation, it’s crucial to prepare the new disposal thoroughly before proceeding with the replacement process. Here’s a detailed guide to help you do it right:
1. Gather Essential Tools
Before you get started, gather the necessary tools, including a wrench, pliers, a flashlight, a bucket, and a towel.
2. Unpack and Inspect
Unpack the new disposal and inspect it carefully for any damage or missing parts. Ensure that all components are intact and in good condition.
3. Remove the Mounting Bracket
If the new disposal comes with a mounting bracket, remove it by unscrewing the bolts that hold it in place.
4. Install the Dishwasher Discharge Hose
Connect the dishwasher discharge hose to the appropriate fitting on the new disposal. This will allow wastewater from the dishwasher to drain through the disposal.
5. Install the Sink Flange
Slide the sink flange onto the disposal outlet and secure it with the provided screws. The flange should form a watertight seal between the sink and the disposal.
6. Lubricate the Grinding Components
Before installing the disposal, apply a few drops of food-grade lubricant to the grinding chamber and blades. This will reduce friction and help the disposal operate smoothly.
7. Wire the Disposal
Connect the new disposal to the electrical supply using an approved appliance cord and plug. Ensure that all connections are tight and secure. Here’s a table summarizing the wiring steps:
| 1. Turn off the power at the circuit breaker or fuse box. | |
| 2. Wrap electrical tape around the bare copper wires. | |
| 3. Connect the green or bare copper wire to the ground terminal. | |
| 4. Connect the white wire to the neutral terminal. | |
| 5. Connect the black wire to the hot terminal. | |
| 6. Turn on the power and test the disposal. |
Install the New Disposal
1. Prepare the Work Area: Clear the space under the sink and gather all necessary tools and materials.
2. Disconnect the Power: Turn off the circuit breaker or remove the fuse that powers the disposal.
3. Disconnect the Plumbing: Use channel-lock pliers to loosen the slip nuts connecting the disposal to the drainpipe and dishwasher (if applicable).
4. Remove the Old Disposal: Support the disposal with one hand and unscrew the mounting bracket with the other. Carefully lower the disposal and disconnect the electrical wires.
5. Mount the New Disposal: Align the mounting bracket of the new disposal and tighten the screws to secure it.
6. Connect the Plumbing (cont.): Reattach the drainpipe and dishwasher line (if applicable) by tightening the slip nuts.
7. Connect the Electrical Wires: Connect the black wire from the disposal to the black wire from the power supply. Connect the white wire from the disposal to the white wire from the power supply. Connect the green or bare copper wire from the disposal to the ground wire.
8. Secure the Disposal: Use a putty knife or similar tool to apply plumbers putty around the flange of the disposal. Carefully insert the disposal into the drain hole and tighten the lock ring by hand. Finish by using a wrench to further tighten the lock ring.
| Tool | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Channel-lock pliers | Loosen slip nuts on plumbing |
| Screwdriver | Remove or tighten screws |
| Electrical tape | Insulate wire connections |
| Basin wrench | Tighten lock ring on disposal |
Connect the Water and Power
Once the disposal is in place, you’ll need to connect the water and power.
Water
Attach the water supply line to the inlet valve on the disposal. Tighten the connection with a wrench.
Power
Connect the power cord to a dedicated electrical outlet. Make sure the outlet is grounded and that the circuit breaker or fuse is properly sized for the disposal.
Electrical Wiring
Follow these steps to connect the electrical wiring:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Turn off the power at the circuit breaker or fuse box. |
| 2 | Connect the black wire from the disposal to the black wire in the electrical box. |
| 3 | Connect the white wire from the disposal to the white wire in the electrical box. |
| 4 | Connect the green or bare copper wire from the disposal to the ground wire in the electrical box. |
| 5 | Tighten all the connections securely. |
| 6 | Turn on the power at the circuit breaker or fuse box. |
Test the Disposal
Once the disposal is connected, turn it on and run some water through it. Check for any leaks and make sure the disposal is operating properly.
Test the Disposal
To verify if the disposal is effectively processing food waste, it is recommended to conduct a simple test:
Materials Required:
| Item |
|---|
| Ice cubes |
| Small amount of dish soap |
Procedure:
1. Ensure the disposal is turned off and disconnected from the power source.
2. Fill the disposal with a few ice cubes and turn it on for 15 seconds. The ice should break down into smaller pieces, creating a grinding sound.
3. Add a small amount of dish soap to the disposal and turn it on for 10 seconds. The soap will help clean any food residue or grease within the disposal.
4. Run water through the disposal for 30 seconds to flush out any remaining soap or debris.
5. If the disposal does not respond as described, it may require further troubleshooting or replacement.
How to Replace a Disposal
Replacing a garbage disposal is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. Here are the steps on how to replace a disposal:
- Turn off the power to the disposal. This can be done by flipping the breaker or removing the fuse that powers the disposal.
- Disconnect the water supply to the disposal. This is typically done by turning off the water supply valve under the sink.
- Disconnect the drain line from the disposal. This is typically done by loosening the clamp that holds the drain line in place.
- Remove the mounting bolts that hold the disposal in place. These bolts are typically located on the bottom of the disposal.
- Lift the disposal out of the sink. Be careful not to damage the sink or the countertop.
- Install the new disposal. Reverse the steps above to install the new disposal.
- Turn on the water supply to the disposal.
- Turn on the power to the disposal.
- Test the disposal. Run some water through the disposal to make sure it is working properly.
People Also Ask
How do I know if my disposal needs to be replaced?
There are a few signs that your disposal may need to be replaced. These include:
- The disposal is making a loud noise.
- The disposal is not grinding food properly.
- The disposal is leaking water.
- The disposal is not turning on.
Can I replace a disposal myself?
Yes, replacing a disposal is a relatively simple task that can be completed in a few hours. However, if you are not comfortable working with electrical or plumbing, it is best to hire a professional.
How much does it cost to replace a disposal?
The cost to replace a disposal will vary depending on the type of disposal you choose and the cost of labor in your area. However, you can expect to pay between $100 and $500 for a new disposal and installation.
