DIY Garbage Disposal Removal

Turn off Power and Water

• Before removing the old garbage disposal, turn off the power to the unit. Shut off the circuit on the home circuit board that sends power to the unit. This may also shut off some of the kitchen lights, so be prepared with a flashlight or an auxiliary lighting source. Also shut off the main water pipe to avoid a mess while opening pipes under the sink.

Disconnect the Plumbing

• Now, disconnect the main drain pipe, which is attached to the bottom of the garbage disposal, by unscrewing the pipe's coupler connection. This drain pipe can then be pulled down one to two inches and then pushed to the side of the unit. If the dishwasher is hooked up to the kitchen drain pipe, use a flathead screwdriver to loosen the clamp that holds this pipe to the main drain pipe, then remove it. Finally, remove the main unit.

Removing the Disposal Unit

• Unscrew the main connection. This is a large gray coupler that attaches to the bottom of the sink. Slide this to the left to unscrew the main unit. If it gets stuck, gently tap the coupler with a small, rubber mallet. Once the coupler is removed, slide the disposal down.

  Make sure the power is off. Then disconnect the wiring by unscrewing the disposal wiring panel on the bottom of the unit with a Phillips or slot head screwdriver. There will be two yellow or red wires here, depending on the unit. Slowly twist the electrical connectors to disconnect the disposal from the kitchen wiring.