Derrick Jensen
A lot of homeowners unanimously agree that a garbage disposal is an excellent investment. However, many opt out, as soon as they attempt to install their disposal. The process isn’t straightforward and many consumers do not have the skills or knowledge needed to pull it off, without assistance.
Thankfully, some manufacturers have implemented new features, which can help to make the installation procedure substantially easier.
Many consumers will still turn to a licensed plumber and this is definitely reasonable, but it is not a necessity. If you don’t mind paying extra, you should go ahead, pick up the phone and make the call.
However, if you wish to carry out the installation or replacement on your own and want to save, you should learn how to perform the installation. Below, you’ll find a breakdown of the removal, replacement, and installation of a garbage disposal.
Precautions to Take When Installing a Kitchen Disposal
Whether you’re a skilled professional or have never installed a disposal, you will take some degree of risk when carrying out the install on your own. Thankfully, there are some precautions that can be taken to help decrease these risks to a great degree.
First and foremost, it is essential to shut off the power to your kitchen. This is a necessity, whether you’ll need to wire the unit or not. It is also a good idea to protect your hands. The blades of the disposal can be incredibly sharp and they’ll most certainly slice your fingers open. Wearing gloves whenever possible is a good idea.
Choosing an Easy-to-Install Kitchen Disposal: Tips and Recommendation
If you’re keen on installing the disposal on your own, you’ll want to make the process substantially easier, by opting for an easier to install model. There are several key attributes, which can help make the disposal easier to install. First and foremost, you should opt for one that is equipped with a traditional power cord.
This will help you avoid needing to wire anything. Instead, you’ll be able to plug the cord into the outlet. Secondly, you should choose a disposal, which features a twist on and twist off installation.
This will give you the ability to lock the disposal onto the sink within a matter of seconds. Once you’ve acquired a disposal, which meets these qualifications, you should move ahead.
How to Remove an Old Kitchen Disposal Safely and Effectivel
If you happen to be replacing an old disposer, you’ll first need to remove the old one. Although this process shouldn’t be overly complicated, it is essential to take your time and work cautiously, so all preexisting pipes and fittings remain in good condition.
Also, make sure your water and electricity are shut off to avoid potential risks and messes. Be sure to place a bucket underneath the water pipe to collect any debris, which comes spilling out. When you’re ready to begin, you’ll want to grab a pair of pliers.
Loosen the tailpipe connection and all other clamps. Once this is completed, you will need to disconnect the disposer from the sink. Although the specifics will depend solely on the disposer in question, this can typically be completed by twisting the disposal in the right direction.
After this is completed, the disposal should lift free and you should be able to remove it from underneath the sink. Now, it is time to replace the unit with your new one.
Easy Steps to Replace Your Kitchen Disposal in Minutes
Replacing a disposal will undoubtedly be easier than a fresh installation, since all of the necessary pipes will already be in place. And, if you opted for a disposal, which features a plugin power cord, you’ll be able to complete the replacement within a matter of minutes.
When you’re ready to begin, you’ll want to grab the new disposal and attach it to the sink. Position the mount in the correct location and turn the disposal, until it is secured to the sink. Once this is completed, it is time to secure the other connections.
Make sure all PVC connections are secured tightly, but do not over tighten, as this could damage the pipes. Be sure to use a sufficient amount of adhesive to prevent leaks and other future problems.
Once all connections have been secured, it is time to test out your handiwork. Turn on the breaker and switch the water back on. Power on the disposal and see whether or not it works as intended. At the same time, it is essential to check for leaks.
Placing a napkin or paper towel underneath the disposal for a period of time is recommended. This will help you spot leaks much easier. If everything is up and running as intended and no leaks are present, you’re good to go.
A Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Your Kitchen Disposal
Lucky for you, most garbage disposals are now designed to offer a quick and easy installation process. Unlike, the traditional disposer, the new models are equipped with components that make this process a breeze. Your main concern will be the space that you are going to be working in.
Larger homes will most likely offer adequate under-the-sink space, but apartments, flats, and condos will probably not. This is why it is so important to take the garbage disposal’s design into account, before making a final purchase.
You will find an array of large and compact models, so if you are working with limited space, a compact design will work better for you.
Once you get your shopping out of the way, it will be time to initiate the installation process. You will need to gather a few supplies, before you actually get started. You supply list should include adhesive, screwdriver, electrical cable, plumber’s putty, hacksaw, and a wrench that is designed for garbage disposals.
If there is an electrical receptacle within reach, you will be able to skip the wiring process. If not, you will need to run a 240v wire from the electric box to the hole, where the receptacle will go. Complete the wiring per the instruction guide, before moving on to the next step.
Now, it is time to attach the mounting ring and drain flange. Place the plumber’s putting around the drain hole and then screw the components into place. Mount the disposal and twist it into place until it is completely secure.
Overall
At the end of the day, attempting to replace or install a disposal will not be easy, but neither objective is impossible either. By taking your time and knowing precisely how to accomplish the task at hand, you’ll be able to carry it out on your own and save money in the process. Just remember to work slowly and cautiously to prevent injury to yourself or damage to your kitchen.
