Are you tired of your garbage disposal making a racket? Is it not draining properly? If so, it may be time to change it. Changing a garbage disposal is not a difficult task, but it does require some basic plumbing skills. In this article, we will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to change a garbage disposal. We will also provide you with some tips on how to choose the right garbage disposal for your needs.
Before you begin, you will need to gather some tools and materials. You will need a new garbage disposal, a wrench, a screwdriver, a pair of pliers, and a bucket. You may also need some plumber’s putty. Once you have gathered your tools and materials, you are ready to begin. Before continuing, be sure to turn off the power to your garbage disposal at the circuit breaker.
The first step is to disconnect the power to the garbage disposal. To do this, simply unplug the power cord from the outlet. Next, you will need to disconnect the water supply to the garbage disposal. To do this, turn off the water supply valves under the sink. Once the water supply is turned off, you can disconnect the water lines from the garbage disposal. Finally, you will need to disconnect the drain line from the garbage disposal. To do this, loosen the clamp that is holding the drain line in place and then pull the drain line off of the garbage disposal.
Identifying the Garbage Disposal Location
Identifying the garbage disposal in your kitchen is crucial before you attempt any maintenance or repairs. Here’s a detailed guide to help you locate the garbage disposal:
Under the Kitchen Sink:
Most garbage disposals are installed directly underneath the kitchen sink, usually on the left or right side. Look for a cylindrical or cone-shaped appliance that is connected to the drain pipe and electrical outlet. The top of the disposal will typically have a splash guard or a cover.
Inside the Kitchen Cabinet:
In some kitchens, the garbage disposal may be mounted inside a cabinet, either directly under the sink or next to it. Open the cabinet doors and inspect the area below or to the side of the sink. You should be able to see the garbage disposal attached to the drain and electrical lines.
Table of Garbage Disposal Locations:
| Location | Description |
|---|---|
| Under the Kitchen Sink | Most common location, typically on the left or right side of the sink |
| Inside the Kitchen Cabinet | Mounted inside a cabinet below or next to the sink |
Tips:
- If you’re still unable to locate the garbage disposal, refer to your kitchen’s blueprint or consult a qualified plumber.
- Once you have identified the garbage disposal, take note of its brand and model number for future reference or troubleshooting needs.
Disconnecting the Power Supply
Before you begin any work on your garbage disposal, it is crucial to ensure that the power supply is disconnected. This is a critical step for your safety and to prevent any electrical hazards.
Step 1: Locate the Circuit Breaker
Identify the electrical panel in your home and locate the circuit breaker that controls the garbage disposal. The circuit breaker will be labeled “Garbage Disposal” or something similar.
Step 2: Turn Off the Circuit Breaker
Flip the circuit breaker to the “OFF” position. This will cut off the power supply to the garbage disposal.
Step 3: Verify Power Disconnection
To ensure the power is disconnected, press the garbage disposal’s reset button. If it does not reset, the power is successfully disconnected.
If the garbage disposal still resets, repeat steps 1 and 2 carefully, ensuring that you have identified and turned off the correct circuit breaker.
Caution: Always double-check that the circuit breaker is in the “OFF” position before proceeding with any further work. Failure to disconnect the power supply properly can result in severe electrical hazards.
| Steps | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Locate the circuit breaker | Identify the electrical panel and find the circuit breaker labeled “Garbage Disposal” or similar. |
| Turn off the circuit breaker | Flip the circuit breaker to the “OFF” position to cut off power to the garbage disposal. |
| Verify power disconnection | Press the garbage disposal’s reset button. If it does not reset, power is successfully disconnected. |
Accessing the Garbage Disposal Mounting Bracket
The garbage disposal mounting bracket is usually located on the underside of the sink. To access it, you will need to:
- Turn off the water supply to the sink.
- Disconnect the power supply to the garbage disposal.
- Locate the mounting bracket. It is usually a metal bracket with two or three bolts.
Remove the mounting bolts.
- Locate the mounting bolts that secure the garbage disposal to the mounting bracket.
- Using a wrench or socket, loosen the bolts but do not remove them completely.
- Support the weight of the garbage disposal with one hand while you remove the bolts with the other hand.
- Be careful not to drop the garbage disposal.
- Remove the garbage disposal from the mounting bracket.
- The disposal is making a loud noise.
- The disposal is not grinding food properly.
- The disposal is leaking water.
- The disposal is tripped the circuit breaker.
| Tool | Usage |
|---|---|
| Wrench or socket | To loosen and remove the mounting bolts |
Reconnecting the Power Supply
Once the disposal is repaired or replaced, it’s time to reconnect the power supply. Follow these steps carefully to ensure safety:
1. Turn Off Power at the Electrical Panel
Locate the electrical panel and turn off the circuit breaker or fuse that supplies power to the disposal.
2. Check for Power
Use a voltage detector to confirm that there is no power going to the disposal. If any power is detected, immediately turn off the power again and contact a qualified electrician.
3. Remove the Old Wire Nuts
Locate the wire nuts connecting the disposal wires to the power supply wires. Use pliers or a nut driver to carefully unscrew the wire nuts.
4. Connect the New Wires
Match the colors of the wires: black to black, white to white, and green to ground (usually bare copper or green insulation). Twist the ends of the wires together tightly and secure them with new wire nuts.
5. Tighten the Wire Nuts
Use a pair of pliers or a nut driver to securely tighten the wire nuts. Ensure a good connection to prevent loose wires and electrical hazards.
6. Tuck the Wires Away
Carefully tuck the wires back into the disposal body or the electrical box for a clean and safe installation.
7. Secure the Electrical Box (if applicable)
If the electrical box was removed, slide it back over the disposal and secure it with the mounting screws.
8. Turn On Power at the Electrical Panel
Return to the electrical panel and turn on the circuit breaker or fuse that supplies power to the disposal. Check if the disposal is functioning properly by pressing the reset button (if applicable) and running water through it. If the disposal hums or makes any unusual noises, immediately turn off the power and contact a professional.
How to Change a Garbage Disposal – YouTube
This video will show you how to change a garbage disposal. It is a step-by-step guide that will help you through the process. You will need a few tools to complete this task, including a wrench, a screwdriver, and a pair of pliers. The video will also provide you with some tips on how to troubleshoot common problems with garbage disposals.
