You flip the switch, turn on the faucet, and the garbage disposal stops working after a grunt, leaving you with a sink full of leftover food bits. Uh oh! Consider changing the unit yourself before hiring a plumber.
YES, you can certainly install your garbage disposal, and the process for a mechanically inclined homeowner should take no more than an hour. If you undertake this task, you should look for a replacement disposal that is the same brand as the one you already have and is as similar to the same model as possible. If a compatible unit is installed, there will be no need to modify any existing pipes to make them fit, saving time and money.
For a competent DIYer, installing a garbage disposal is a reasonably simple task. Follow these steps to learn how to install a garbage disposal with a few simple tools.
First Things First
Set up a trash compactor. A garbage disposal, whether being replaced or installed for the first time, will have a discharge that connects to the drainpipe and will be fastened to the sink. The disposal is where the hose from your dishwasher empties.
In most cases, you can choose from 1/3 horsepower up to 1 horsepower for your garbage disposal. You should get disposal compatible with your septic system if you have one. Make sure your needs align with the manufacturer’s suggestions.
1st Step:
As a first step, disconnect the kitchen’s power. First, turn off the water supply and place a bucket beneath the P-trap. Take out the filter and the excess plumber’s putty from the sink.
2nd Step:
Using the plumber’s putty, secure the flange in place. To prevent the disposal from slipping, place a towel over the sink’s flange before setting it in place.
3rd Step:
A fiber gasket, a backup flange, and a mounting ring are stacked under the sink and placed onto the flange’s bottom. Snap the ring into place by opening it and then closing it. Apply even pressure with the screwdriver to snug the screws up against the backup flange, and then remove any stray putty.
4th Step:
To connect the disposal to the dishwasher drain, you must first remove the stopper from the drain intake by hammering it out.
5th Step:
Then, you’ll need to disconnect the wire cover plate and connect the power cord (power cords may be sold separately). Reconnect the wires and replace the cover.
6th Step:
To connect the drain, place the gasket in the discharge outlet, then use the flange and bolts to secure the discharge tube. Align all three tabs with the mounting ring and hang the disposal. Turn these tabs over the ridges using the provided wrench to fasten them. Join the drain hose to the sink. Attach your drainpipes and tee pipe before your P-trap to ensure proper water flow.
If In Doubt, Call A Professional
Come on, let’s not sugarcoat this. Few people who read this site are competent at dismantling and reassembling a kitchen sink. If you wanted to, you’d be doing it now; if you’re having second thoughts, give Gray Plumbing a ring. Many customers choose us because they know they can count on us to provide the quickest and most secure expert assistance possible. Contact us now!
