Garbage disposals are one of the most underrated kitchen inventions out there. They make kitchen clean up super simple, and they help keep organic scraps from ending up in the landfill. It’s a win-win!
Even if Do-It-Yourself projects are not your forte, installing a garburator is a good project to dive into. It’s not too complicated and with the proper tools and this handy guide, you’ll be grinding banana peels in no time.
Here are some basic things to know before you get to work:
- Your garbage disposal will attach to the sink.
- It will have a discharge component that attaches to the drainpipe.
- You may need to call an electrician if you don’t have a nearby outlet and switch. This is normal in older places built before dishwashers, garbage disposals, and other electrical appliances and gadgets were commonplace.
- A permit might be required in order to install your garbage disposal.
And now, it’s time to roll up those sleeves! These are the general steps you will need to follow, but for more detailed instructions, follow the installation manual carefully.
Step 1
Turn off the circuit breaker for the kitchen.
Step 2
Take a bucket and place it below the drainpipe. Now disconnect the drainpipe from below.
Step 3
Remove the sink strainer and scrape away any excess putty that might still be attached.
Step 4
Apply plumber’s putty around the flange of the new drain and press into place. Either secure it in place with something heavy or get someone to press down from above while you next work from underneath.
Step 5
Stack the fibrous gasket and triangular attachment ring. Slide them onto the drain fitting from below. Secure the ring by snapping the round clip spring into the groove on the drain fitting.
Step 6
Tighten the screws to secure the drain flange against the bottom of the sink. You want to retain some plumber’s putty as it is needed to seal, but some should ooze out above. Remove excess putty.
Step 7
Attach the garbage disposal’s power cord by removing the electrical plate and connecting the matching wiring. Then tuck them back into the electrical box and replace the plate.
Step 8
To mount the garburator, you may need an extra set of hands as it can be heavy and awkward to maneuver. While holding the unit in place, rotate the top collar so that the three mounting ears engage into the mounting collar on the bottom of the drain fitting.
Step 9
Connect the drain lines.
Step 10
Lock it in. The manufacturer might provide a special wrench or use a screwdriver for leverage. You’ll lock the disposer to the sink mounting assembly by tightening the rotating cam collar on the disposal. It should “click” into place.
Step 11
Turn the power, back on to try it out. Don’t forget to check below for leaks!
Installing a garburator is a great way to build your DIY confidence. Remember to take your time and consult a professional if you are unsure of your abilities to complete this task.
If you would like to use our Garburator Installation Services, be sure to give us a call at 604-539-0708, we would be happy to help.
Please note, we do not make warranties or assurances on any of the articles posted on our blog, any action taken upon the information on this website is strictly at your own risk.
