Posted on September 16, 2024

Are you tired of dealing with stinky, overflowing garbage cans in your kitchen? Installing a garbage disposal can be a great solution to this problem, not to mention it can make your life a whole lot easier. However, if not installed properly, it can quickly become a plumbing nightmare.

That's why in this article, we will discuss the dos and don'ts of garbage disposal installation. By following these guidelines, you can ensure a successful and hassle-free installation process, and avoid costly mistakes.

Preparation and Safety Tips

Before you jump into the actual installation, getting your work area prepped and making sure you’ve got all your ducks in a row is half the battle. Having the right tools on hand is absolutely crucial. You'll need a wrench, plumber’s putty, a screwdriver, and possibly a pipe cutter depending on your current plumbing setup.

On top of that, don't skimp on safety gear - gloves and goggles are your best friends here. They’ll protect your hands from sharp objects and your eyes from any stray debris. Even if you’re experienced with DIY home projects, it's critical to make sure the area is clean and organized. Having your tools within arm’s reach will save you from running back and forth in the middle of a job.

One of the most important things is to make sure the power is disconnected before you get started. This is non-negotiable. Garbage disposals are devices that use electricity, and working on them with the power connected can lead to severe injuries or worse.

Head to your circuit breaker and shut off the power to the kitchen outlet where the disposal will be connected. After you've done that, double-check by attempting to run the disposal (if one is already installed) to ensure there's no power going to it.

Once your workspace is prepped and the power is disconnected, take a moment to read through the manufacturer's instructions that came with your new garbage disposal. Every model is a bit different, and these directions will give you a good sense of any unique features or steps for your specific unit.

Proper Installation Practices

Once you're ready to begin, you'll want to start by removing the existing disposal, if you have one. Now, get under the sink and look for the mounting assembly, typically a round metal piece that is secured with screws. Loosen these screws and detachment should be fairly straightforward.

If your sink doesn't already have a garbage disposal, you'll need to place a new mounting ring. Begin by applying a generous amount of plumber's putty around the flange of the sink drain. Insert the flange into the drain hole and press firmly to create a seal.

Underneath the sink, slide the mounting ring and gasket over the flange and secure them with the ring clip. Tighten the screws evenly to ensure a secure fit. Ensuring the flange is properly sealed with plumber's putty is essential for leak prevention. If it’s uneven or sparsely applied, you could end up with water seeping into your cabinets.

Next, you'll move on to attaching your new disposal to the mounting assembly. Carefully lift the disposal and align it with the mounting assembly's opening. Once aligned, insert the disposal’s upper part into the mounting ring, and turn it clockwise until it locks into place.

Some models come with a locking ring that requires an extra quarter-turn for added security. If you've never done this before, don't worry; most units have grooves that guide you through the locking process. Before you tighten everything up, it's a good idea to examine the fit to ensure there are no gaps or misalignments.

The removal of the knockout plug is another step often overlooked in the DIY process—be sure to do this if you're connecting a dishwasher to the disposal. Failure to remove this plug can result in drainage issues down the line.

Before wiring the electrical components, double-check that the power supply is indeed turned off. This is an excellent time to reiterate that electrical safety is non-negotiable.

Next, remove the disposal’s electrical cover plate and connect the power cord wires to the disposal’s wire leads. Usually, the black wire connects to black, white to white, and the green ground wire to the green grounding screw.

Once everything is securely connected, replace the cover plate. Now it’s time to attach the discharge tube, which will typically connect from the side of the disposal to your household plumbing. Use a rubber gasket and metal clamp to secure the discharge tube.

Ensure that all connections are tight and there are no leaks. Additionally, inspecting your P-trap and surrounding pipes is another must-do—they should be clean and in good condition to minimize the risk of clogs. Reconnect the plumbing and restore power to test the disposal, making sure to run water through it to verify there are no leaks.

Maintenance and Sustainable Waste Management

After successfully installing your new garbage disposal, ensuring that it operates efficiently for years to come is all about routine maintenance and being mindful of what goes down the drain.

One of the key tips for garbage disposal maintenance is running cold water during its operation. Cold water solidifies any grease or oils, making them easier for the disposal to chop up and push through the pipes.

Remember to let the cold water run for about 15 seconds after turning off the disposal to ensure all the ground-up waste is flushed down without leaving any debris. Additionally, avoid pouring hot water into the disposal while grinding food waste, as this can melt fats and cause them to solidify further down the drain, leading to clogs.

Moreover, engaging in routine maintenance for garbage disposal involves more than just running water. Regular cleaning is another essential practice. Monthly cleanings using a mix of ice cubes and rock salt can help remove the gunk and sludge that builds up on the blades and inside the unit.

Simply drop a few ice cubes and a handful of rock salt into the disposal and run it with cold water. This not only cleans but sharpens the blades as well. Alternatively, you can also use a little bit of baking soda followed by vinegar to give it a good cleaning. Let the mixture foam for a few minutes before rinsing with cold water. These simple habits can significantly extend the lifespan of your disposal and keep it running efficiently.

Related - Signs You Can't Ignore: When to Pick Up the Phone and Call a Plumber

Wrapping Up

Installing and maintaining your garbage disposal doesn't need to be a daunting task. By adhering to these guidelines, you're likely to find the process more manageable and rewarding.

Should you ever feel uncertain, remember that professional help is just a call away. Southeastern Plumbing offers expert installation services to take the hassle out of the process for you. Our team is highly trained and experienced, ensuring that your new garbage disposal will be installed correctly and function efficiently. We’re here to assist you with any plumbing needs you might have, from installations and repairs to regular maintenance.

Don’t hesitate to contact us today at (864) 474-1999 or send us an email at [email protected]. Schedule your garbage disposal installation and transform your kitchen into a more functional, efficient space.