6 Steps to Replace Your Garbage Disposal
Are you needing a new garbage disposal and wondering how to install it yourself? This guide will show you how to replace your old garbage disposal with a new one. Replacing a garbage disposal is an easy DIY project you can complete in just a few hours.
1. Turn Off the Power
First, turn off the power to your garbage disposal at the circuit breaker or fuse box. That is an important safety precaution since working with live electrical wires can be dangerous. If you do not have a dedicated circuit for the garbage disposal, you may need to shut off the power to the entire house.
2. Disconnect the Plumbing
Once the power is off, you can begin disconnecting the plumbing. There are usually two hoses – one for the drain and one for the dishwasher – connected to the disposal. Begin by turning off the water at the shut-off valve. Next, use a wrench to loosen the connections, and then carefully remove the hoses. Now you can access the disposal unit itself.
3. Remove the Old Disposal
Disposals typically have a mounting ring and jam nut that secures the unit to the sink. You’ll need a pair of slip-joint pliers and possibly a hex wrench to loosen the retaining nut.
Insert the blade of the pliers into the slot at the bottom of the disposer. Twist the pliers to loosen the retaining nut, and then pull down on the disposer to remove it. Be sure to remove any mounting hardware such as screws or clips.
4. Clean Up the Sink Drain
Now that the old disposal is out, take a moment to clean up the sink drain. Remove any food scraps or other debris that may have accumulated over time. You can use a brush to scrub away any remaining residue. This will make it easier to install the new disposal. Once the sink is clean, you’ll be able to work on installing the new disposal unit.
5. Install the New Disposal
The last step is to install your new garbage disposal unit. Before installing the new disposal, consult the manufacturer’s instructions. The process generally involves reversing the steps you took to remove the old disposal. Begin by positioning it under the sink and attaching it using the mounting hardware that came with it. If your new disposal comes with a sound baffle (a device that absorbs noise), snap it into place over the drain opening.
Next, fit the new disposal’s mounting assembly onto the underside of your sink flange (the part of your sink where you connect pipes). Using your old disposal as a guide, mark the proper holes on the underside of your sink. Remove the new disposal’s mounting assembly, and use a drill or screwdriver to create pilot holes in these locations. Finally, reattach the mounting assembly, and tighten any screws or bolts securely.
Once secure, you can reattach the plumbing lines and turn on the power. You may also need to reset the garbage disposal’s internal breaker by pressing the reset button on its underside. With that, your new garbage disposal should be up and running.
For professional installation, A To Z Dependable Services is the company you want to call when you need a new garbage disposal. We’re based in Niles, Ohio and offer our services to residential and commercial customers.
6. Reconnect Power and Test
Reconnect power to your disposal unit by restoring power at your circuit breaker or fuse box. Run cold water at your sink faucet, and test your disposal by turning it on. You can feed it some small scraps of food to see if it grinds properly. Your disposal should grind up any food waste if everything is connected correctly.
If you experience any problems, consult your owner’s manual for troubleshooting tips. If everything seems to be working properly, congratulations. You’ve successfully replaced your garbage disposal. With a little care, your new garbage disposal should provide years of trouble-free operation.
Rely on the Pros
Replacing a garbage disposal is not as difficult as it may seem. Be sure to consult the manufacturer’s instructions for your model, and always exercise caution when working with electricity and plumbing. If you have any doubts or questions, it’s always best to call a professional plumber or electrician.
A To Z Dependable Services is a family-owned and -operated business based in Niles, Ohio. We are committed to providing quality services to our clients. We offer plumbing and HVAC services. We are here to help you with all your home improvement needs. Contact A To Z Dependable Services today to schedule a free consultation.
