Upgrade Your Garbage Disposal: DIY Installation Tips

A high-quality garbage disposal is an essential appliance in any modern kitchen. Not only does it make clean-up a breeze, but it also helps reduce waste and decrease the risk of clogs and blockages in your pipes. However, if your current garbage disposal is old, slow, or not functioning as well as it should be, it may be time for an upgrade.

In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of installing a new garbage disposal on your own, without the need for a professional plumber. By following these DIY installation tips, you can have a new, efficient, and effective garbage disposal up and running in no time.

Key Takeaways
Benefits of upgrading your garbage disposal include increased efficiency, reduced noise, and decreased risk of clogs and blockages.
Before starting the installation, make sure to gather all necessary tools and materials, shut off power and water, and remove the old disposal.
The installation process includes mounting the new disposal, connecting wiring, and attaching drainage pipes.
After installation, it’s important to test for leaks and troubleshoot any common problems that may arise.
To maintain your new garbage disposal, be sure to clean it regularly and avoid putting certain materials down the drain.

Table of Contents

Benefits of Upgrading Your Garbage Disposal

Upgrading your garbage disposal has several benefits, including:

Increased Efficiency: A newer, more advanced garbage disposal can grind up food waste more effectively, reducing the risk of clogs and blockages in your pipes.
Reduced Noise: Older garbage disposals can be noisy and disruptive, while newer models are designed to operate more quietly.
Decreased Risk of Plumbing Issues: A high-quality garbage disposal can help prevent plumbing issues, such as clogs and blockages, that can be expensive and time-consuming to fix.

How to Replace a Garbage Disposal – Easy, Step-by-Step

Tools and Materials Needed

Before you begin the installation process, make sure you have all of the necessary tools and materials. Here’s what you’ll need:

Screwdrivers (both Phillips and flathead)
Adjustable wrench

Plumber’s putty
Electrical tape
Wire connectors

Garbage disposal installation kit
New garbage disposal

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Preparing for Installation

Before you begin the installation process, there are a few important steps you need to take to prepare:

Shutting Off Power and Water

First, make sure to turn off the power and water supply to your old garbage disposal. You can do this by turning off the circuit breaker that powers the disposal and shutting off the water valve under your sink.

Removing the Old Disposal

Next, you’ll need to remove the old garbage disposal. Start by disconnecting the drainage pipes and wiring from the disposal.

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Installing the New Disposal

Now that you’ve removed the old garbage disposal, it’s time to install the new one. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Mounting the Disposal

First, attach the mounting assembly to the bottom of the new disposal unit, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Then, insert the mounting gasket into the mounting assembly, making sure it’s seated properly.
Align the mounting tabs on the mounting assembly with the mounting ring, and then twist the disposal until it locks into place.

Use a screwdriver to tighten the screws on the mounting assembly until they’re snug.

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Connecting the Wiring

Connect the electrical wiring to the new disposal unit, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Use wire connectors to connect the wires, and then wrap them in electrical tape.

Finally, tuck the wires into the electrical box and secure the cover.

Attaching the Drainage Pipes

Attach the drainage pipes to the new disposal unit, following the manufacturer’s instructions.
Apply a small amount of plumber’s putty to the sink flange, and then place the flange onto the sink drain hole.

Tighten the mounting assembly and flange screws until they’re snug, but be careful not to over-tighten and damage the sink or flange.
Finally, connect the drainage pipes to the disposal unit, using a wrench to tighten the connectors until they’re snug.

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Testing and Troubleshooting

After you’ve installed the new garbage disposal, it’s important to test it and troubleshoot any problems that may arise. Here are some tips to help you through the process:

Checking for Leaks

Turn the water supply back on and run water through the disposal unit.
Check for leaks around the sink flange and drain connections.
If you notice any leaks, tighten the connectors until the leaks stop.

Troubleshooting Common Problems

If the disposal unit doesn’t turn on, check the electrical connections and make sure the power supply is turned on.
If the disposal unit makes a humming noise but doesn’t grind up food waste, it may be jammed. Turn off the power supply and use a wrench to turn the disposal manually, then remove any obstructions.
If the disposal unit is leaking from the bottom, it may be damaged and need to be replaced.

Maintenance and Care Tips

To keep your new garbage disposal running smoothly, here are some maintenance and care tips to keep in mind:

Clean the disposal regularly by running water and a small amount of dish soap through it.
Avoid putting hard materials, such as bones or fruit pits, down the disposal.

Run cold water through the disposal while it’s in use, to help solidify and grind up food waste more effectively.

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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Is it safe to install a garbage disposal on your own? Yes, with the right tools and instructions, installing a garbage disposal can be a DIY project. However, if you’re not comfortable working with plumbing or electrical systems, it may be best to hire a professional plumber.

How long does it take to install a new garbage disposal? The installation process can vary depending on your level of experience, but generally takes about 1-2 hours.

Can you install a new garbage disposal without removing the old one? No, you’ll need to remove the old garbage disposal before installing the new one.

Do all garbage disposals require electrical wiring? Yes, all garbage disposals require electrical wiring to function. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully when connecting the wiring.
What type of food waste can I put down a garbage disposal? Soft foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and bread, are generally safe to put down a garbage disposal. However, avoid putting hard materials, such as bones or fruit pits, down the disposal, as they can damage the blades and motor.

Hellen James

Hellen James is the author of the blog and a licensed plumber with over 15 years of experience. She shares her knowledge and experience in plumbing and drainage through insightful and informative articles