Regular garbage disposal has a lifespan of almost a decade and slightly more. So if you have this in your kitchen, it’s probably time for an upgrade. Because replacing an old unit with a new one usually requires plumbing and wiring skills, it might be good to hire someone to install the new disposer fully. Although modern devices are relatively user-friendly, previous experience with electricity and plumbing can come to your advantage and help avoid possible accidents during the installation.
Some rules and regulations demand a 20-120 amp outlet under the sink, where the disposal is easily accessible and allows the user to turn on or off the switch easily. It can ensure that users don’t get any accidental shocks while trying to empty trash in their kitchens. Before opting for a sink grinder installation, you must know that the device connects to the side of a kitchen sink to aid in grinding waste food particles into fine pieces, which will then exit down the drain. Disposals can be of several kinds ranging from 1-1/3 hp, and they can dispose of water and whatever scraps you have. Now, let’s find out what you have to do to install it.
Wiring the appliance
Turn off the right switch or outlet for safety’s sake before installation. You have to take the appliance out from its packaging and pore over the manufacturer’s instructions to understand the particular parts of your disposal and wiring colors. Afterward, take time to locate and remove your disposal’s component cover plate underneath the sink if it’s not already blank or removed. Following this step, you will need to connect your disposal’s power cord if one is available (most often, they do). And since most disposals have black and white wires attached, you should then connect white to white and black to black or as relevant.
Inserting the drain flange
You may need a new sink drain flange for your garbage system installation. It is a metal disk that stays at the bottom of the sink with a small pipe extending below the sink. You can attach it by using a plumber’s putty. Create a rope-like structure from the putty of around 3/8 inches in diameter to put it underneath the drain flange. Slip the flange from the drain hole through the top of your sink with accuracy and evenly. You would need to fix it with a backup ring or rubber gasket to the flange from under the sink.
Installing mounting ring
Make sure that the rubber fits nicely under the flange and the top edge of the mounting ring. After you set them up correctly, tighten up all of its screws. It’s important to tighten all the elements properly to evenly pull up against all points of contact made by your sink. By alternating it, you can avoid the issue of warping or other inconveniences.
Adding the ultimate device
You will want to place the disposal above the drain and fix it to the mounting ring. A good trick as you’re doing so is to put something like a wooden board underneath to prop it up until it’s screwed into place. You’ll also probably want a second person if anything goes wrong (which sometimes can happen). Just check that the disposal comfortably sits there.
Connecting P-trap
Check the length of the discharge tube where your disposal will attach itself. If it needs to be shorter, hacksaw or tubing cutters will come in handy. After making any necessary adjustments, please place a new P-trap; this may involve bolting it down into place. If the connection bypasses the dishwasher, don’t forget to remove that first before attaching the new P-trap drain inlet inside. If tied correctly and tightened down, everything should line up nicely so that water does not leak from anywhere.
Testing for leakage
Secure all the mounting and plumbing connections well. Open the tap to check for leaks at first. After running the water, switch on the disposal to charge and ensure there are no leaks. Examine all the fittings again. Then run water into the drain once again while the sink has a stopper to test whether or not it is leaking.
Installing a garbage disposal is easy if you remember to follow all instructions given by the manufacturer and can handle the suitable types of food as it goes through its grinding process. Using your garbage disposal will ensure that odors disappear and unwanted organic garbage can go straight down the drain into the sewer system to not fester on your kitchen countertops or get stashed in some dirty pile in your basement. Your food waste handling will get sorted, in simple words. You would need to have a hammer, screwdriver set, channel-type pliers, rag, etc. While the grinder is the main thing, you also need a plumber’s putty, wire nuts, extension pipes, etc.
As mentioned earlier, these installations demand electrical and plumbing expertise. If you are unsure about handling this, get professional help and don’t risk anything. An ill-fitted disposal system may affect your kitchen working experience and investment. Then, leaks and other issues are also possible. Those who cannot be careful with electrical outlets need to stay away from this. As it involves switching off and on the device during installation, one must be extremely particular about it.
The well-established kitchen appliances brands offer premium quality products. Some also ensure an easy installation process. Still, it doesn’t mean you have to wear your DIY cap. You can get a plumber to do this task. You don’t have to waste your sleep or put up with anxiety for a small charge. In the end, all you need is that your garbage disposal works fine. Since you get many models, choosing the one with a continuous feed system can be more convenient. You can learn about them through the description or read information online. Make sure you understand their functioning correctly because these are sophisticated yet immensely helpful kitchen items. The price range can vastly vary, but your focus has to be on finding the best one for your needs.
