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Directions for How to Install a Garbage Disposal

Garbage disposals quickly remove food waste from your kitchen. This can reduce food odors and prevent insects and animals from invading your trash when left outside for removal. Installing a garbage disposal under your kitchen sink is a weekend do-it-yourself project that does not require many tools or heavy lifting.
  1. Electrical

    • Before installing a garbage disposal in your kitchen, contact a certified electrician to wire an on/off switch for the disposal and install a ground fault circuit interruptor outlet under the sink so you can easily plug in your new disposal. Turn off the circuit breaker before installing the disposal to prevent electrical shock or injury.

    Under the Sink

    • Remove all items stored in the cabinet under the sink to create a safe work space. Remove cabinet doors so you have more room to work. Using a pipe wrench, disconnect both the p-trap and horizontal pipe. To catch any water in the pipes, keep a bucket or towels close by to prevent water from spilling out over your work space.

    Upper Mounting

    • Before attaching the upper mounting to the underside of the sink, wrap plumber's tape around the flange at least two times to create a tight seal. Place the flange into the sink hole. Attach the upper mounting using the screws provided to the flange from the underside of the sink. Screws need to be tight to prevent the garbage disposal from vibrating too much when turned on.

    Dishwasher Connection

    • If you have a dishwasher and want to connect the disposal to the dishwasher drainage pipe so all waste water is removed by the same network of pipes, remove the drain plug located on the side of the garbage disposal and attach the drainage hose attached to the dishwasher to the disposal. If the drainage hose if not long enough, you may need to purchase hose extensions. These extensions can be found in most hardware or home improvement stores.

    Attach Garbage Disposal

    • Attach the garbage disposal to the upper mounting. Match up the tabs until they lock into place and tighten using the wrench tool provided. You may need to rotate the disposal until you feel the tabs lock into place. Turn the disposal so all discharge tubes line up with the drain trap. Turn the circuit breaker back on to use your garbage disposal.