Easy Steps to Install a Garbage Disposal

Installing a garbage disposal in your kitchen can make meal clean-up easy and quick. These handy appliances can break down most food waste and are fairly simple to install. With the right tools and a bit of time, you'll be able to install a garbage disposal system in no time. This step-by-step guide will show you just how to install a garbage disposal.

Understanding What You Need Before You Begin

Before you begin your project, you’ll need a few items. Below is a list of the tools and materials you’ll need for your garbage disposal installation:

• A garbage disposal unit
• Plumber’s putty
• Adjustable pliers
• Screwdrivers
• A bucket
• Electrical cord

How to Remove Your Old Unit

If you’re replacing an older unit with a new one, the first step in the process is removing the old hardware. This process involves disconnecting the electricity and plumbing before physically taking out the unit. Always remember to keep safety in mind when performing these steps.

Disconnect the Electricity

Always ensure the unit is disconnected from the power supply before beginning. This is a crucial step in ensuring your safety and avoiding the risk of electric shock.

Disconnect the Plumbing

Next, you’ll need to disconnect the pipes. Have a bucket handy to catch any residual water that may leak. Once you’ve emptied out the water, you can move forward in removing the remaining fasteners and the disposal unit itself.

How to Install Your New Garbage Disposal Unit

With the old unit successfully removed, you can begin installing your new garbage disposal. Carefully follow the guide below to install it correctly.

Prepare the New Unit

Your new garbage disposal should come with a mounting bracket. Apply your plumber’s putty to this bracket and then place it underneath the drain flange. Tighten the screws on the bracket until the putty is visibly squeezed out. Remove the excess putty to complete the preparation.

Attach the Garbage Disposal

Line up the garbage disposal with the bracket and attach it correctly. Some models may require a specific alignment to lock the knobs into place. Make sure the unit is secure and test that it stays held up under its own weight. If it doesn’t hold in place, adjust the brackets and try again.

Reconnect the Plumbing and the Electric

Once your garbage disposal is attached correctly, you can reconnect the plumbing and the electrical connections. Make sure to review your owner’s manual or instructions to have your connections done correctly before turning on the unit.

Final Tips When Installing a Garbage Disposal

• Always secure the unit properly before reconnecting the plumbing and electricity.
• Before starting, gather all your tools and have them readily accessible.
• Remember to check for leaks after installation.

Installing a garbage disposal doesn't have to be an intimidating task. With the right tools, patience, and following the steps above, you'll have your unit installed in no time. Not only will this make your kitchen cleanup quicker and more efficient, but it can also significantly reduce the volume of waste you produce every day.

Frequently Asked Questions about Installing a Garbage Disposal

 

Do I need special skills to install a garbage disposal?

You certainly need basic DIY skills. However, if you are comfortable with basic plumbing and wiring tasks, you should be able to handle a garbage disposal installation. Bear in mind that you'll be working with water and electricity, so safety is paramount.

How long does the installation of a garbage disposal take?

For someone with basic DIY skills, installing a garbage disposal typically takes about 2 to 4 hours. This time could change based on factors such as the make and model of the disposal, the current plumbing setup, among others.

Do I need any specific kind of garbage disposal?

Garbage disposals come in different models and sizes. The best one for you lies in your needs, such as the amount of waste you generate, how many people are in your household, and if your plumbing and electrical systems can handle a specific model.

How do I prepare the area for a garbage disposal installation?

Start by cleaning out under the sink to provide ample workspace. Next, place a bucket or towel under the pipe areas to catch any residual water. Ensure the power is disconnected before you begin the garbage disposal installation.

How do I handle the wiring while installing a garbage disposal?

Each garbage disposal comes with a detailed guide on how to handle the wiring. Remember, safety first. If you're not comfortable with this step, consider hiring a professional.

What do I do with the old garbage disposal during an installation?

If you're replacing an old garbage disposal, you'll need to remove it first. Turn off the power, disconnect the drain arm and tube, then twist the mounting nut to detach the old unit. Be cautious, as old units can be quite heavy.

Are there any specific drainage requirements for installing a garbage disposal?

Your sink must have a strainer body with a flange installed into the drain opening. You'll remove this and replace it with a mounting bracket specific to your garbage disposal model.

Can I use a garbage disposal with a septic system?

Yes, certain garbage disposals are septic safe. Always make sure to check the manufacturer's details before the installation of a garbage disposal in a home with a septic system.

Can a dishwasher be connected to the garbage disposal?

Yes, most garbage disposals have a dishwasher drain connection. But, remember to knock out the dishwasher plug before connecting the dishwasher drain hose to the garbage disposal.

How can I reduce the chances of a garbage disposal clogging?

Maintaining a garbage disposal is vital. Avoid disposing of fibrous materials, coffee grounds, bones, fats, oils, and other hard items. Running the water while the disposal is on can also help prevent clogs.

Is it necessary to run water during the garbage disposal operation?

Yes, it's essential. Running cold water can help solidify fats and grease, making them easier to chop up. Continue to run the water for about 15 seconds after the garbage disposal is done grinding to flush waste through the pipes.

Pros and Cons of Installing a Garbage Disposal

Pros of Installing a Garbage Disposal

Convenience

One of the main advantages of having a garbage disposal is its convenience. The process of installing a garbage disposal includes hooking it up to your sink, which means you can easily discard food scraps and other soft waste materials directly down the sink, avoiding the need to manually collect and throw them into your garbage bin.

Reduced Household Waste

Once you install a garbage disposal, you will notice a significant reduction in the volume of your household waste. By grinding food waste into small particles, it can be disposed of more efficiently, reducing the amount of trash that goes into your bins and ultimately into the landfills.

• Garbage disposals are designed to handle most types of food waste with ease.
• They are an effective way to keep your kitchen clean and free of odorous waste.

Environmental Sustainability

By installing garbage disposal units, we contribute to the sustainability of our environment. These systems prevent the accumulation of waste in landfills, minimizing methane gas emissions that contribute to global warming.

Cons of Installing a Garbage Disposal

Initial Installation Cost

The process of installing a garbage disposal unit can be pricey if you haven't got the necessary plumbing in place or would require the services of a professional plumber. The cost of the unit itself as well as labor costs for installation can add up.

• The cost of installing garbage disposal varies depending on the type of unit you prefer.
• Average installation costs could range from $80 - $350.
• Luxury models could push the total cost to as much as $500, not including potential plumbing modifications.

Maintenance and Repair Costs

Over time, the costs of maintaining a garbage disposal unit can accumulate. The unit will need regular cleaning to prevent clogging and maintain efficiency. In addition, if the garbage disposal breaks down, repair costs can be significant.

• Regular cleaning is required to maintain the seal and blades inside the garbage disposal unit.
• Replacement parts for a garbage disposal unit can be expensive and may require professional assistance to install.

Limited Use

Garbage disposals can't manage all types of waste, so they don't completely eliminate the need for traditional trash disposal. Hard or fibrous food items can jam or damage the mechanism, leading to costly repairs or replacements.

Summary

The decision to install a garbage disposal will often boil down to the balance between the convenience and sustainability benefits against the installation, maintenance and repair costs. A careful evaluation of these pros and cons will enable you to make a decision that best suits your needs, can contribute to environmentally-friendly waste disposal and ensures efficient utilisation of kitchen space.

Summary

So as you've seen, installing a garbage disposal isn't as complicated as it seems. With the right tools, patience, and by following the steps provided above, you can complete the task in a matter of hours. Remember, the most vital part of how to install a garbage disposal is ensuring all power sources are turned off to prevent any unfortunate mishaps.

Once you've installed your garbage disposal, maintaining it properly is equally important. Running it regularly to avoid rust, only putting down food waste it can handle, and cleaning it periodically with vinegar or baking soda are just a few ways to prolong its lifespan. Following the steps in this guide not only instructs you about how to install a garbage disposal but also gives you basic tips to keep it operating smoothly for years.

Never feel intimidated by the process again. The guide is meant to be a one-stop solution for those wanting to learn how to install a garbage disposal but were unsure about where to begin. Trust the process, follow the steps, take the necessary safety measures, and soon you'll be the proud installer of a functional and efficient garbage disposal system in your kitchen.

About Sagan Electric

Meet Sagan Electric! We hail from vibrant Sacramento, CA, proudly serving our community with exceptional electrical services. With a keen eye for detail and a passion for providing top-notch customer service, our experienced team tackles projects of all sizes with unmatched expertise. At Sagan Electric, we take every measure to ensure quality work and enduring results. After all, we believe in not just meeting your expectations, but exceeding them!