How to Replace a Garbage Disposal

Turn off the power supply to the garbage disposal

There is a live current running through your garbage disposal, and you'll need to make sure it's completely off so you can replace it safely. You can turn off the disposal underneath the sink, but you should also switch it off at the breaker. Flip the fuse switch off and then test the system to make sure it's entirely off before moving onto the next step.

Take Out the Disposal Unit

Once you find the pipe feeding into the garbage disposal, you should use a screwdriver to disconnect it. You should then be able to pull it free from the unit. You can then take hold of the unit and twist it anticlockwise to disconnect it. You should lay this down on an old cloth to stop any mess. Be careful because some disposal units will weigh up to 15 pounds so that you may need some assistance removing it.

Replace the mounting ring

Start by pulling away from the rubber ring and then the rest of the mounting ring should come away as well. You should then put a new rubber ring into position and attach the new mounting ring. Use a screwdriver to tighten all the screws in place.

New Hardware Installation

Lift the new disposal unit and carefully place the top underneath the mounting ring. You can then twist the disposal, so it fixes into place, tighten any screws that come with the unit. At this point, you should check the device to make sure it's in place securely.

Getting the new disposal ready

Shift your disposal so that the discharge tube lines up with the water pipes. Cut some PVC plumbing pipes so that the connection fits properly and remember to use a nut to lock this in place. This should make the disposal ready for use.

Check the wiring

Most garbage disposals will come with plugs built in that you just need to connect to your power, but some will need to be wired in. If this is the case, you should open the hatch at the bottom and connect the colored wires into a plug cord. Plug cords may not be included, but you can buy them separately fairly easily. If you have no experience with electricity, then you should be an expert to verify the work.

Completing the Installation process