Garbage Disposal Installation

Tired of that stinky garbage?  Wanting to install a garbage disposal because your old one broke? Lucky for you, installing a garbage disposal is relatively easy.  If you have never installed one before, here's a detailed set of instructions that may help.  These installation plans are for replacing an existing garbage disposal.  If you want to install a disposal under a sink that has never had one before, these instructions may not be sufficient.

Ready, get set...

Before you begin, you'll want to make sure that in addition to the new disposal, you have Phillips and flathead screwdrivers, slip-joint pliers, and a socket set.  Make sure the old disposal has been completely removed, and that the power is off!

Go!

1. Once you have removed the existing mounting, you'll need to replace the drain flange. Push the flange up through the drain hole and place a rubber seal (or plumber's putty) on the underside of the drain flange.

2.) Put the drain flange back into place.  Then, place a rubber seal (or plumber's putty) on the drain flange on the underside of the sink.

3.)  Attach the metal backup ring, flat side up, while holding the assembly in place.

4.)  Attach the mounting ring with three screws. Make sure the screws are loose. Then, push the ring up and secure it in place with the snap ring.  Tighten the screws.

5.) Next, shake the disposal upside down to make sure that nothing is inside of it.  You're now ready to connect the wiring for the disposal.

6.) Remove the electrical plate and pull the wires through the unit. Connect the electrical wires to the disposal, white to white and black to black.  Then, secure the connections with nuts.

7.)  Connect the ground wire to the disposal (green), and then put the cover plate back on.

8.)  You are now ready to mount your disposal. Twist it into place on the mounting nut, rotating it until it is aligned.  Secure the collar tightly.

9.)  You can now make the plumbing connections. Attach the drain arm and the dishwasher drainpipe (if applicable).   Make sure the drain line and the drain port of the disposal are properly aligned. Tighten the drainpipe.

10.) Plug the disposal in, and turn the power back on.  Run water through the disposal for several minutes, checking for leaks. 

11.)  Enjoy!  If installed properly (and maintained), a garbage disposal should work properly for years, needing minimal repair. 

More information on garbage disposals