How to Install a Garbage Disposal in a Kitchen Sink

If you use some common sense and the right tools, installing a garbage disposal in your kitchen can be a do-it-yourself project. Whether you are a culinary genius in the kitchen or an avid microwave user, a garbage disposal is a great appliance for any kitchen.

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Remove the waste assembly from the sink by disconnecting it from the sink flange. Loosen the mounting assembly by turning the 3 screws so that the assembly hangs loosely. Remove the mounting assembly from the sink flange by prying off the snap ring. Lift the flange out of the sink. Once complete, you will be left with a hole in the bottom of the sink.

2. Scrape any sealant and clean the surface before replacing the flange. Also clean and remove any gasket or sealant from underneath the sink.

3. Roll a thin tube of plumber's putty in your hands. Apply the putty to make a complete seal under the flange. Put the new flange over the opening and press down. Trim any excess putty.

4. Attach the mounting assembly. Install the snap ring by prying it into the indentation in the neck of the flange. Once the snap ring is in place, you can begin to tighten the assembly.

5. Connect the electrical wiring to the disposer. Make sure that all power is shut off at the fuse box or breaker panel to avoid injury or electrocution.

6. Connect the disposal system to the assembly and turn the mounting collar to engage it to the upper mounting bracket. Make sure the collar is secure all the way around. Once you are sure it is properly mounted, tighten the collar securely.

7. Make the plumbing connections. Align the drain line with the drain port on the disposer. Slip the fastener from the drain line to the connector on the disposer and hand tighten. If you are connecting a dishwasher drain hose to the disposer, slip the hose clamp over the hose and slide it down a couple inches. The disposer should be secure and steady when you attempt to shake it. If it is, finish tightening the drain line connection.

8. Plug in the disposer and restore the power at the circuit breaker. Turn on the water and check for leaks. You are done!

Tips & Warnings

• Before attempting to install the disposal, make sure that it will fit under your sink.
• You need to measure the discharge tube before installing the disposal system. The tube may be too long or too short. You can buy extension pieces to make the tube the right length.
• Do not fully tighten each screw before moving to the next one. As you tighten the assembly the putty will be squeezed out around the flange in the sink and under the sink. This may create a future leak.