Steps for Installing a Garbage Disposal

Project Summary

• Duration of Work: 1 hour
• Overall Duration: 1 to 3 hours
• Output: Set up a waste disposal unit.

• Proficiency Level: Intermediate
• Projected Expense: $80 to $150

Installing a garbage disposal typically requires significant lifting and careful connections to the drainage system. By handling the installation yourself, you can spend just a bit more than the price of the disposal unit itself, which ranges from $80 to $150 for 1/2 hp models. This can lead to substantial savings compared to the price of having a professional installation, which can be around $400, excluding the cost of the disposal.

Discover the process of installing a garbage disposal in just 10 easy steps with this comprehensive guide.

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Requirements for Your Task

Gear / Instruments

• Pliers with a channel design
• Screwdrivers
• Hammer
• Rag

Materials

• Waste management
• Plumber’s sealant
• Power cord with plug-in feature and strain relief connector.
• Wire connectors
• Extension components for the drain pipe (if needed)

Instructions

Eliminate the Old Waste Disposal Unit

Remove the power supply from the existing disposal by either unplugging it or, in the case of a hardwired unit, by switching off the circuit at the main service panel.

• Detach the garbage disposal by unfastening the drain connections linked to it.
• Unlink the disposal unit from the flange assembly located at the base of the sink.
• Take out the disposal flange assembly from the drain of the sink.

Install Plumbing and Electrical Wiring for the Sink Area (Optional)

When installing a garbage disposal for the first time, you have the option to either handle the plumbing and electrical work on your own or to enlist the help of a plumber and an electrician.

• Install a dedicated 20-amp 120-volt outlet with a switch beneath the kitchen sink, close to the garbage disposal.
• Install a P-trap (the curved section of the drainpipe) no more than 5 inches away from the sink drain.

Set up the drain fitting along with the mounting ring.

• Apply a 1/2-inch thick line of plumber’s putty around the drain opening from the top to seal the sink opening.
• Place the new disposal sink flange into the sink, ensuring it is inserted from the upper side.
• Firmly press the flange into the plumber’s putty.
• Move the fibrous gasket and the metal triangular attachment ring upward (beneath the sink) onto the tailpiece of the flange.
• Fasten the ring by inserting the circular clip spring or snap ring into the groove located on the flange tailpiece.

Tip

You’ll require someone to securely hold the sink flange in position from the top while you carry out your tasks beneath the sink.

Secure the Assembly of the Mounting Ring.

• Gradually apply uniform pressure around the ring by turning each screw individually.
• Secure the screws until the sink flange is firmly pressed against the underside of the sink, causing the plumber’s putty to begin to squeeze out.
• Remove any excess plumber’s putty from the drain opening in the sink by wiping it with a cloth.

Tip

It’s seen as a positive sign when plumber’s putty seeps out around the drain’s edge, as it indicates a secure seal. However, take care not to over-tighten, as this could cause the putty to be completely squeezed out.

Attach the power cord of the disposal unit.

Prior to installing the garbage disposal, it’s necessary to connect the power cord that plugs in.

• Take off the electrical cover plate located at the bottom of the disposal unit.
• Place a strain relief connector in the opening designated for the power cord.
• Use pliers to securely fasten the fitting nut.
• Pass the free end of the power cord through the strain relief.
• Secure the strain relief clamp onto the cable using a screwdriver.
• Utilize wire connectors to join the white wire from the disposal to the white (neutral) wire of the power cord, the black wire to the black (hot) wire, and the green ground wire to the green ground wire of the cord.
• Insert the connected wires into the electrical box of the disposal and put the cover plate back in place.

Hook up the dishwasher (optional).

In certain setups, the water drained from the dishwasher is directed through the garbage disposal. If this is the case:

• Find the dishwasher inlet fitting positioned close to the upper section of the disposal chamber.
• Place a screwdriver into the opening of the nipple.
• Use a hammer to gently tap the screwdriver, similar to how you would with a chisel, to dislodge the plug located within the nipple. This plug, which is a plastic disc, will drop into the grinding chamber of the disposal.
• Insert your hand into the top of the disposal unit and remove the disc.

Install the Waste Disposal Unit

Connect the waste disposal unit to the sink.

• Position the disposal by aligning the upper collar with the three mounting tabs on the sink mounting assembly.
• Secure the disposal in position and twist the upper collar until the three mounting tabs fit into the mounting collar located at the base of the drain fitting.
• Turn the collar slightly to keep the disposal steady, but avoid tightening it completely. You might need to reposition the unit before fully securing it.

Link the Drain Pipes

• Secure the rubber discharge hose to the disposal unit using the provided gasket and screws.
• Adjust the disposal unit by rotating it until the discharge tube is in line with the sink’s drain waste trap.
• Attach the dishwasher hose as needed.
• Attach the dishwasher hose to the disposal inlet.
• Fasten it using the clamp supplied by the manufacturer.

Secure the garbage disposal unit firmly in position.

Securely attach the disposal to the sink mounting assembly by tightening the rotating cam collar on the disposal unit. You can use a screwdriver for added leverage or a specialized wrench that may have been included with the garbage disposal. You should notice a noticeable click when the disposal is properly locked in position.

Inspect for leaks and ensure correct functionality.

Verify your work thoroughly.

• Activate the water supply and let it flow through the disposal to inspect all connections for any leaks. If leaks are detected, secure any loose drain connections.
• Connect the disposal to the wall socket and make sure the power to the circuit is activated.
• Check the garbage disposal by running the water and the disposal unit, then adding some food remnants into the drain.

Tips for Installing a Garbage Disposal

Some straightforward suggestions can streamline the garbage disposal process, enhance convenience, and improve safety.

• Position a container beneath the pipes while detaching them to collect any water that may spill.
• Select a new garbage disposal that is compatible with the plugs of your electrical outlets.
• Fill the basin with water to test the seal of the sink drain.
• Ensure that the disposal electrical line is properly grounded.
• Avoid connecting an electric wire to a gas line.
• If you’re not confident in handling this task yourself, consider hiring a plumber and an electrician.
• Every few days or weeks, blend a sliced lemon to help eliminate unpleasant smells.

Are you looking for an electrician to set up a garbage disposal unit?

An electrician is not necessary for the installation of a garbage disposal if there is already a dedicated, switch-operated, and grounded 120V circuit in place near the sink. If such a circuit is not available, you have the option to install it yourself if you have the necessary electrical skills, or you can choose to hire a professional electrician. Please note that a permit will be needed for the installation.

What is the typical duration for a plumber to set up a garbage disposal?

A plumber can set up a garbage disposal in approximately an hour or even less, provided that the existing plumbing is already installed.

Is a specific type of sink required for the installation of a garbage disposal?

A dedicated sink is not required for the installation of a garbage disposal. Most standard single or double-basin sinks can accommodate garbage disposals.