How to Remove a Knockout From a Disposer

Kitchen garbage disposers have a port for the installation of a dishwasher drain hose. Whether you've purchased a new disposer or are installing a dishwasher where there wasn't one before, you'll need to open the disposer dishwasher port. You must remove the knockout from the disposer to allow free flow of dishwasher drainage water. The knockout allows the disposer to install in the event there is no dishwasher. The knockout is a solid piece of plastic or metal that seals the inside of the port.

Phillips-head screwdriver
Center punch
Hammer
Assistant
Tongs

Instructions

- 1
  Unplug the disposer power cord, if the disposer is already installed on the sink. Some disposers are wired directly to the home's electrical system. Turn off the disposer circuit breaker in your home's electrical panel to cut power to the disposer. If the disposer is not installed, place it on its side on a solid flat surface with the dishwasher port pointing toward you.
- 2
  Place a center punch or a large Phillips-head screwdriver on the center of the knockout plug. If the disposer is installed, have an assistant hold the opposite side of the disposer to brace it.
- 3
  Hit the end of the center punch or screwdriver with a hammer. This breaks the knockout plug and sends it inside the disposer.
- 4
  Reach inside the disposer from the drain with a pair of tongs to pull out the knockout. If the disposer is not installed, turn it upside down to remove the knockout from the disposer.

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