Garbage Disposal Plumbing - How To Install a Garbage Disposal

Usually, garbage disposal plumbing installation really means replacing one. This can be a fairly simple job with the right tools and a general idea of what you're doing.

A flange is used to attach the garbage disposal to the sink. The attached pipes are for putting water in and flushing it back out, although they do give some added support. To replace the unit, the flange and the pipes must be removed.

Always turn the electricity off whenever you are performing repairs on an appliance. This can sometimes be done by turning off the switch under the sink. Turning the unit off on the wall switch above the sink is not enough to ensure safety during garbage disposal plumbing installation.

Some designs allow you to turn off the valves under the sink. Either way, do whatever is necessary to prevent water from running all over when you disconnect the pipes.

Next, you want to disconnect the electrical connections. This will be done either by unplugging a plastic connector, or by unscrewing wire connectors from a metal plate.

Remove all remaining hoses, being sure to clean the existing plumber's tape from the interior.

Then, loosen the nuts that attach the pipes to the unit, using a pair of channel locks, or a pipe wrench. All remaining Teflon tape should be removed from here as well. Use sandpaper to remove it from the interior if necessary.

The only thing left holding the disposal to the sink should be the flange. This should consist of nothing more than a large nut holding the neck of the unit to the flange. It may be stuck from corrosion, depending on how long it has been in place. Being careful not to damage anything, give the wrench a quick jerk to break it loose.

You may be able to easily remove the thin metal part once the nut and possible mounting ring are removed. It's possible that the plumber's putty that sealed it may have solidified, making it difficult to remove. It may take some extra force to free it up.

Your new disposal unit will come equipped with a flange, so you can dispose of the old one. The surface of the sink that will attach to the new unit should be thoroughly cleaned of any remaining putty or debris. This will make for a better seal when the new unit is installed.

Apply a fresh ¼ inch bead of plumber's putty around the surface that will attach to the new unit. Seat the new flange securely into place and squeeze out all of the excess plumber's putty. Before it dries wipe the rest away with a damp cloth.

At this point, you can install any rubber gaskets or mounting rings that often accompany the new disposal units. Follow the directions for proper placement. Different models will vary slightly, so make sure you install it as directed. When everything is properly placed, make sure all nuts and screws are tightened down securely.

Next, you can attach the wiring system, either by plugging in the connector, or attaching the wires to a plate with screws.

Attach the new garbage disposal unit to the flange and mounting assembly. When re-attaching hoses and pipes, make sure to use Teflon plumber's tape to ensure a good seal. Next, you can tighten the rest of the clamps and mounting rings.

Before turning the circuit breaker back on, check the entire assembly for water tightness and leaks. Garbage disposal plumbing is not so difficult after all.