How to Remove an Old Garbage Disposal

Garbage disposals are a great invention that allows you to save time on kitchen clean-up and conveniently gets rid of discarded food matter that can cause problems with rotting and attracting pests. When garbage disposals work, they work well, but when they stop working, you suddenly realize how much you depended on one. Replacing an old non-functioning garbage disposal is generally more cost effective than attempting to repair it. Here's how to remove one.

Pipe wrench or large adjustable wrench
Screwdriver
Large bucket
Putty knife
Voltage tester

Instructions

- 1
  Turn off the breaker switch that the dispossl is connected to. To do this, turn the disposal on and leave it running. Have your helper stand near the disposal while you go and try breaker switches until the disposal shuts off. Have your helper yell to you when you have successfully managed to turn the disposal off.
- 2
  Put the bucket directly under the garbage disposal.
- 3
  Use the pipe wrench or adjustable wrench to remove the p-trap from the disposal. This is the pipe with a u-shaped bend in it. Allow the trap's contents to dump into the bucket.
- 4
  Remove any hose clamps, discharge tubes or other connections that lead to the drainpipe. Use the screwdriver to loosen screws or pry where needed.
- 5
  Hold the disposal with one hand while removing any mounting screws with the screwdriver.
- 6
  Turn the disposal counter-clockwise to remove it from its mounting.
- 7
  Use the screwdriver to remove the screws from the disposer's electrical plate. Test all wires with the voltage tester to double check that the power to the unit is disconnected.
- 8
  Pull the clamp holding the wires to loosen and remove the wires from the disposer once you are certain the power is off.
- 9
  Use the screwdriver to pry off the snap ring that is found on the mounting assembly. Remove any screws holding the mounting assembly pieces on, then remove all pieces.
- 10
  Use the screwdriver to pry the sink flange out of the sink, from above.
- 11
  Use the putty knife or screwdriver to scrape any remaining plumber's putty from the sink's drain opening, from above and below the sink.

What Is the Drain Trap for a Garbage Disposer?

Foods Not to Put Down a Waste Disposal

Garbage Disposal