A garbage disposal can be a huge game-changer in a kitchen.
First, it allows you to collect lots of garbage from your rubbish bin, keeping it clean, non-sticky and free of nasty smells 24/7. Conversely, garbage disposals enable the finest protection of the pipes and the sink, so ensure you include them in your home maintenance list.
We don’t have to remind you what a nightmare was the last time they both were clogged.
So if you don’t have a garbage disposal and you plan to install one to avoid these unwanted conditions in the kitchen, spend the next 10 minutes with us. We will use them to explain how to install that useful home device on your own.
Gather Your Tools and Supplies
If you do not use any professional plumbing services, you will have to equip yourself with the necessary tools and supplies alone. This might be a problem for those who are not very fond of DIY-repairing projects at home.
In all cases, you will have to go to the building store and complete this shopping list:
- Screwdriver – standard fit and size;
- Disposer wrench;
- Hacksaw;
- Pliers for water pump;
- An electrical cord;
- Some buckets for the spills;
- And, of course –garbage disposal (please, check out if your model comes with a hose in the pack and if not, get one from the store).
Read the Owner’s Manual
You don’t have to be a novice in plumbing chores at home to do this preliminary preparation for the project.
Unfortunately, many consider themselves talented handymen who can handle every repair or installation process without professional assistance. In fact, they pride themselves on that.
These are the people who will skip reading the manufacturer’s manual instructions. And it’s a huge mistake to make if you want to ruin the entire initiative.
So, don’t just read the instructions carefully, but keep them open before your eyes during the whole DIY project.
Remove the Existing Disposal (if needed)
If you know how significant garbage disposals are, you might already have one installed in your kitchen. And in case you read this step-by-step guide, you will have to remove the old one to replace the current device with a new one. This is not a risky business if you preliminary shut off the water supply.
Once you do it, the most significant danger – flooding your house – is behind you. Then, unplug the power source and turn off the drain flange. Now you can get the hose clamp out of the discharge pipe with ordinary pillars.
Throw the old disposal at a place where it’s allowed to do so.
Wire Your Disposal
This step shouldn’t be performed if your new garbage disposal has a cord to be powered. As a matter of fact, some models don’t have a cord at all. And if you have such a garbage disposal in front of you right now, you are supposed to wire it.
One of the options is to use the previously attached power cord to the old disposal. The other alternative is to buy a new one. You will find out how to connect your garbage disposal to the capped wires by checking out the manual instructions.
Install the Drain
First of all, remove the old one.
Now, you can get rid of all the plumber’s putty remains. Then, when you finish with the ex-disposal sign eliminations, you can attach the new drain grange.
We strongly recommend putting a quarter of an inch around the underside at first and then pressing the drain hole. This will help you to adjust the drain more quickly and efficiently.
Place The Mounting Ring Underneath
Depending on the model of your new garbage disposal, you will deal either with an EZ Mount or with a 3-Bolt Mount.
The good news now: they can be placed almost the same way. Once you install the mounting ring, lay the rubber gasket. Make sure to place it at identical distances from the drain flange and mounting ring.
Now you should tighter the fasteners but don’t push too hard. Too tight means soon leaks. Keep adjusting the elements until the mounting ring positions snugly.
Mount the Disposal
And here comes the moment to gently raise your disposal unit to connect it with the sink mounting assembly. Give it a firm twist to ensure a secure fit.
Now, keep the mounting process by attaching the snap ring. Finally, it’s time to tighten the suitable fasteners well enough to have everything in the proper position and not loosened.
Attach The P-Trap And Drain Hose
In the next step you should do it’s critical to attach your disposal unit to the P-trap, drain hose, or dishwasher hose. It sounds challenging, but the truth is that the task is as easy as a childish game. Simply eliminate the plugs on the side with your screwdriver and a hammer.
Please, don’t forget that it’s critical for you to have the plugs intact in case you haven’t installed any dishwasher hose ready to be installed and turned on.
Double Check the Fasteners and Plug-In the Disposal
Safety first, they say, and when it comes to garbage disposal installation, it counts, too.
In this security measure chore, you should check out all the installed mounting screws again, as well as the plumber’s putty, which should be readjusted if being excessed. Then, check for leaks, and if everything’s ok, it’s time to see what job you’ve done.
Test the Garbage Disposal
To start the test, turn on the water supply and plug all the electric cables back.
Now, see if the garbage disposal is set at its correct location. Before you run the water, put the bucket under the garbage disposal. Remember that lots of spills will flood your kitchen if something is made wrongly.
If nothing appears in the bucket, you’ve done a great job, and you can enjoy your garbage disposal. Please contact your local plumber for assistance if you hear strange sounds or see any leak signs.
Conclusion
Although it sounds like an easy job, installing a garbage disposal might be like rocket science to some of you. And if you happen to be one of those people, don’t be ashamed of relying on professionals to install the device in your kitchen sink or in case of any plumbing problems.
