5 Steps to Install a Garbage Disposal

A garbage disposal installed under a kitchen sink

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[Image of a person installing a garbage disposal.]

Installing a garbage disposal can be a relatively simple task, but it is important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid any potential electrical or plumbing problems. This step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of installing a garbage disposal, from start to finish. Before you begin, gather all the necessary tools and materials, including a garbage disposal, a wrench, a screwdriver, a drill, a hole saw, and a putty knife. Additionally, you will need to turn off the power to the kitchen at the circuit breaker panel and shut off the water supply to the sink.

The first step is to remove the old garbage disposal. To do this, disconnect the power cord, then use a wrench to loosen the mounting nuts. Once the mounting nuts are loose, you can remove the old garbage disposal from the sink. Next, you need to prepare the sink for the new garbage disposal. This involves cleaning the sink and removing any old sealant. Once the sink is clean, apply a bead of sealant around the rim of the sink opening. Then, place the new garbage disposal in the sink and tighten the mounting nuts.

The next step is to connect the power cord to the new garbage disposal. To do this, simply plug the power cord into the outlet on the bottom of the garbage disposal. Finally, you need to connect the water supply to the garbage disposal. To do this, attach the water supply hose to the inlet valve on the top of the garbage disposal. Once the water supply is connected, turn on the water and check for any leaks. If there are no leaks, you have successfully installed your new garbage disposal.

Step 1: Safety Precautions

Ensure your safety before beginning the installation process:

Turn off the electricity to the kitchen at the circuit breaker panel. Check that the power is off by flipping the breaker that controls the garbage disposal outlet.
Close the water supply to the sink. Shut off the valves under the sink to prevent water from flowing while you work.
Empty the garbage disposal of any food scraps or debris. Use a flashlight to check for any remaining items.
Wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from potential hazards during installation.
Have a flashlight and a small mirror ready for easier access to hidden areas.

Step 2: Preparing the Sink Drain

Prepare the sink for the garbage disposal installation:

Place a bucket under the sink to catch any water or debris.
Remove the old disposal, if present, by disconnecting it from the drainpipe and power supply.
Clean the sink drain flange, removing any old sealant or debris. Use a wire brush or abrasive pad for thorough cleaning.
Apply a thin layer of plumber’s putty around the flange of the new garbage disposal. This helps create a watertight seal.

Step 3: Installing the Garbage Disposal

Secure the new garbage disposal to the sink:

Lift the garbage disposal into place and align it with the sink drain flange.
Hand-tighten the mounting bolts that hold the disposal in place. Use an adjustable wrench to further tighten the bolts, ensuring a snug fit.
Attach the drainpipe to the garbage disposal outlet. Use a slip nut and tighten it securely.
Connect the electrical wires to the appropriate terminals on the disposal. Match the black wire to the black terminal and the white wire to the white terminal. Secure the wires with wire nuts.

Tools and Materials Required for Garbage Disposal Installation

Installing a garbage disposal requires specific tools and materials to ensure a proper and safe installation. Here’s a detailed list of what you’ll need:

Tools

Adjustable wrench
Pliers
Screwdriver (Phillips and flathead)
Putty knife or utility knife
Wet/dry vacuum (optional but recommended)
Electrical tape
Safety glasses

Materials

Garbage disposal
Sink flange
Mounting screws
Washer(s)
Plumber’s putty
Electrical wiring (if applicable)

Specific Materials for Different Garbage Disposal Types

Different garbage disposal types may require specific materials. For example:

Garbage Disposal Type	Additional Materials
Continuous feed	None
Batch feed	Food stopper
In-sink air switch	Air switch
Wireless air switch	Wireless air switch

Preparation for Installing Your Garbage Disposal Unit

Before you begin working with your garbage disposal, you’ll need to make sure you have the right materials and safety measures in place. Here’s a list of everything you’ll need to get started:

Garbage disposal unit
Sink flange
Mounting bracket
Sink drain
Plumber’s putty
1/2-inch PVC pipe
1/2-inch PVC elbow
1/2-inch PVC tee
1/2-inch PVC caps
Basin wrench
Adjustable wrench
Flathead screwdriver
Phillips head screwdriver
Safety glasses
Work gloves

Safety First

Always follow these safety precautions when working with any electrical appliance, including garbage disposals:

Unplug the garbage disposal from the power outlet before you begin any work.
Wear safety glasses and work gloves to protect yourself from flying debris and sharp edges.
Do not reach into the garbage disposal while it is in operation.
Keep children away from the garbage disposal at all times.
If the garbage disposal does not turn on, unplug it and check the fuse or circuit breaker. If the fuse or circuit breaker is blown, replace it with a new one of the same amperage.
If the garbage disposal still does not turn on, call a qualified electrician for help.

Tools and Materials You’ll Need

To install a garbage disposal, you’ll need a few basic tools and materials. Here’s a list of everything you’ll need:

Tool/Material	Qty
Garbage disposal unit	1
Sink flange	1
Mounting bracket	1
Sink drain	1
Plumber’s putty	1
1/2-inch PVC pipe	1
1/2-inch PVC elbow	1
1/2-inch PVC tee	1
1/2-inch PVC caps	2
Basin wrench	1
Adjustable wrench	1
Flathead screwdriver	1
Phillips head screwdriver	1
Safety glasses	1
Work gloves	1

Installing the Mounting Bracket and Collar

The mounting bracket and collar are essential components for securing your garbage disposal to the sink. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to install them:

Gather the necessary tools and materials: You’ll need a screwdriver, wrench, plumber’s putty, and the provided mounting bracket and collar.

Position the mounting bracket: Place the mounting bracket on the underside of the sink, aligning it with the kitchen drain flange.

Attach the mounting bracket: Drive screws through the mounting bracket into the underside of the sink, securing it firmly.

Apply plumber’s putty: Roll out a small piece of plumber’s putty into a rope and create a ring around the drain flange. This will seal the joint between the flange and the garbage disposal.
1. Attach the collar: Fit the collar over the drain flange and align it with the mounting bracket. Press firmly on the collar to ensure it forms a tight seal with the plumber’s putty.
2. Tighten the collar: Use a wrench to tighten the collar’s locking nut. This will secure it in place and create a watertight connection.

Once the mounting bracket and collar are installed correctly, you can proceed with the other steps of garbage disposal installation.

Powering the Garbage Disposal

Before connecting the power, ensure that the circuit breaker or fuse for the garbage disposal is turned off. Locate the electrical box beneath the sink and remove the cover plate. Connect the black wire from the garbage disposal to the black wire in the electrical box, the white wire to the white wire, and the green or bare copper wire to the ground wire.

Testing the Garbage Disposal

Turn on the water supply and run cold water into the sink. Turn on the garbage disposal and gradually feed a small amount of food scraps into it.

The garbage disposal should grind the food scraps finely and send them down the drain. If the disposal does not operate, check the following:

Ensure that the power is turned on and that the circuit breaker or fuse has not tripped.
Check if the reset button on the bottom of the disposal has been tripped and press it to reset it.
Make sure that the drain hose is properly connected to the garbage disposal and the drainpipe and that there are no kinks or clogs in the hose.
Inspect the impeller blades for any damage or obstructions and clean them if necessary.
If the disposal still does not operate, it may be necessary to call a qualified plumber for further assistance.

Additional Troubleshooting Tips:

Troubleshooting Common Installation Issues

1. The garbage disposal won’t turn on

Make sure your garbage disposal is properly plugged into an outlet.

2. The garbage disposal is running but not grinding

Check the flywheel to see if it’s jammed.

3. The garbage disposal is leaking

Inspect the drain line for any cracks or leaks.

4. The garbage disposal is making a loud noise

Try running some ice cubes or citrus peels through the disposal to clear any blockages.

5. The garbage disposal is smelly

Clean the disposal with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar.

6. The reset button won’t pop out

Try using a pair of pliers to gently pull the button out.

7. The garbage disposal is tripping the circuit breaker

Check to see if the disposal is overloaded. If it is, try removing some food scraps and resetting the circuit breaker. If the circuit breaker trips again, you may have a more serious electrical issue that requires professional attention.

Symptom	Possible Cause	Solution
Disposal hums but doesn’t grind	Jammed impeller	Clear jam by inserting an Allen wrench into the disposal’s access hole and turning it manually
Disposal leaks	Damaged gasket	Replace the gasket
Disposal smells	Food buildup	Run cold water and vinegar through the disposal

Problem	Solution
The garbage disposal is not turning on	Check if the disposal is properly plugged into an outlet.
The garbage disposal is running but not grinding	Check if the flywheel is jammed.
The garbage disposal is leaking	Inspect the drain line for any cracks or leaks.
The garbage disposal is making a loud noise	Try running some ice cubes or citrus peels through the disposal to clear any blockages.
The garbage disposal is smelly	Clean the disposal with a mixture of baking soda and vinegar.
The reset button won’t pop out	Try using a pair of pliers to gently pull the button out.
The garbage disposal is tripping the circuit breaker	Check if the disposal is overloaded. If it is, try removing some food scraps and resetting the circuit breaker.

Maintaining Your Garbage Disposal for Optimal Performance

1. Run Cold Water

Before and after using your garbage disposal, run cold water for at least 10 seconds. This flushes food particles and prevents grease buildup.

2. Avoid Fibrous Foods

Foods like celery, corn husks, and banana peels can clog your disposal. If you must dispose of these foods, cut them into small pieces first.

3. Use Baking Soda

Sprinkle half a cup of baking soda into your disposal and run it with cold water for a few minutes. This helps deodorize and clean the unit.

4. Ice and Coarse Salt

Toss a few ice cubes and a handful of coarse salt into your disposal and run it for a few seconds. This helps sharpen the blades and remove any debris.

5. Citrus Peels

Grind up citrus peels, such as lemon or orange rinds, to deodorize and freshen your disposal.

6. Vinegar

Pour a cup of white vinegar into your disposal and let it sit for 30 minutes. Then, flush it with cold water. This helps kill bacteria and remove odors.

7. Bleach

Mix ¼ cup of bleach with 1 gallon of water. Pour it into your disposal and let it sit for 30 minutes. Then, flush it with cold water. This helps disinfect and whiten the unit.

8. Regular Cleaning and Maintenance

To keep your garbage disposal operating at its best, it is essential to perform regular cleaning and maintenance. Here are some specific steps to follow:

Frequency	Task
Monthly	Run cold water for at least 10 seconds before and after using the disposal.
Quarterly	Clean the disposal using baking soda and vinegar.
Yearly	Have the disposal inspected by a plumber to ensure proper functionality.

Safety Precautions to Observe During Installation

1. Disconnect Electricity

Always ensure the electrical circuit connected to the garbage disposal is switched off at the breaker panel before starting the installation process. This critical step eliminates the risk of electrical shocks during handling.

2. Turn Off Water Supply

Shut off the water supply leading to the sink to prevent water from leaking out during the installation. Locate the shut-off valves under the sink and close them firmly.

3. Wear Gloves

Protect your hands by wearing thick work gloves throughout the installation process. Sharp edges on the disposal and plumbing fixtures can cause cuts.

4. Use a Flashlight

The under-sink area can be dark. Use a flashlight to illuminate the workspace and improve visibility for safe handling.

5. Clear the Area

Remove any objects or clutter from around the sink area to create ample space for working and prevent tripping hazards.

6. Inspect Electrical Wires

Examine the electrical wires connected to the garbage disposal. Ensure they are in good condition, without any cuts or exposed wires. Damaged wires could lead to electrical hazards.

7. Securely Mount the Disposal

Adequately fasten the garbage disposal to the sink flange using the provided mounting bracket and bolts. Avoid overtightening, as this may damage the disposal.

8. Connect the Drain Line

Connect the drain line to the garbage disposal’s outlet port. Use a pipe wrench to tighten the connection securely. Avoid overtightening, as this could damage the piping.

9. Install the Dishwasher Drain Line

If your dishwasher uses the garbage disposal for drainage, connect the dishwasher drain line to the corresponding port on the disposal. Ensure a tight and leak-free connection by using a hose clamp.

Tips for Maximizing Your Garbage Disposal’s Longevity

1. Choose the Right Garbage Disposal for Your Needs

Consider the size, type of motor, and number of blades when selecting a garbage disposal. A larger disposal may be suitable for larger households or kitchens that generate more waste.

2. Install the Garbage Disposal Correctly

Ensure that the disposal is properly mounted to prevent leaks and ensure optimal performance. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.

3. Use the Disposal Only for Suitable Materials

Avoid putting fibrous materials like corn husks or bones in the disposal, as they can cause jams or damage the blades.

4. Run Cold Water When Using the Disposal

Cold water helps to keep the blades sharp and prevents grease buildup.

5. Use Citrus Peels for Odor Control

Drop citrus peels into the disposal periodically to freshen it up and reduce odors.

6. Run Ice Cubes Through the Disposal

Ice cubes help to sharpen the blades and remove debris.

7. Use Baking Soda for Maintenance

Occasionally, pour baking soda into the disposal and run it with water to neutralize odors and clean it.

8. Disconnect the Disposal Before Cleaning

Always unplug the garbage disposal from the power source before cleaning or performing maintenance.

9. Keep the Disposal Clean

Regularly clean the disposal using a brush or a commercial cleaner designed for garbage disposals.

10. Additional Tips

Avoid using chemical drain cleaners:	Can damage the disposal and its components.
Install a splash guard:	Helps prevent food and water from splashing out of the disposal.
Use a disposer pod:	Specialized pods that help break down food waste and reduce odors.
Be mindful of knife blades:	Never put knife blades or sharp objects into the disposal.
Reset the disposal if it jams:	Find the reset button on the disposal and press it to remove the jam.

How to Install a Garbage Disposal – YouTube

Garbage disposals are a great way to keep your kitchen sink drains clear and free of food waste. They are relatively easy to install, and can be done in a few hours. Here are the steps on how to install a garbage disposal:

Turn off the water supply to your sink.
Disconnect the drain pipe from the sink.
Remove the old garbage disposal.
Install the new garbage disposal.
Reconnect the drain pipe.
Turn on the water supply and check for leaks.