Understanding Filter Concerns

If you hate using your old garbage disposal because it's too noisy or ineffective, replace it with a new quieter model. This is an easy DIY project if you replace the unit with the same make and model. You'll be able to use some of the same mounting hardware that the old unit used. Here is how you can replace your own garbage disposal with simple tools and a couple hours of your time.

Materials You'll Need

• flat-blade screwdriver
• channel lock pliers
• wire cutters/strippers
• small bucket
• old rags for cleanup

Replacing the Garbage Disposal

1. Unplug the electrical cord on the garbage disposal from the wall.
2. Remove the drain pipe from the angled drain pipe on the unit by loosening the large nut connecting the two pipes and pulling them apart.
3. Remove the dishwasher drain hose from the side of the unit, if it's being used. A clip or screw clamp may be used to hold the hose in place.
4. Hold the unit with both hands, push up and turn it counterclockwise to detach it from the mounting ring under the sink.
5. Turn the garbage disposal upside down over the bucket to drain any water out.
6. Place the unit upside down on the floor.
7. Remove the access panel to the wires going into the unit.
8. Unscrew the green (ground) wire from the unit and remove.
9. Cut the black (hot) and white (neutral) wires as close to the unit as possible.
10. Set the plug and wiring aside for use later.
11. Move the old unit out of the way.
12. Remove the new unit and all of its hardware from the box.
13. Attach the angled drain pipe to the side of the unit with the bolts provided.
14. If you'll be attaching a dishwasher drain to the unit, knock out the plug sealing the dishwasher drain on the side of the unit.
15. Turn the unit upside down to get to the electrical wires.
16. Remove the access plate.
17. Attach the green wire on your electrical cord to the copper colored screw on the unit.
18. Strip about a half inch of insulation from the black and white wires coming out of the unit and the black and white wires on your electrical cord.
19. Twist the two black wires together and screw on a wire nut to secure and protect the wires.
20. Repeat with the two white wires.
21. Push the wires into the unit and reattach the access plate.
22. Turn the garbage disposal unit over.
23. With both hands, lift up the unit under the sink and place the mounting ring on the new unit into the mounting ring attached to the bottom of the sink.
24. Turn the unit clockwise until you feel it click into place.
25. Attach the dishwasher hose, if used, onto the drain on the side of the unit and secure with the clip or clamp.
26. Attach the drain to the angled drain on the unit and hand tighten the large nut to secure.
27. Plug the electrical cord into the outlet under the sink.
28. Turn the water on and test the unit.

Problems Your May Encounter

• If corrosion prevents you from removing any of the hoses, pipes or the unit itself from the mounting ring, you'll need the help of a company that does plumbing repairs to finish this project.
• If you want to install a different make or model of garbage disposal, have a plumber help by installing the new mounting hardware that you'll need under the sink. Improper installation of the mounting hardware could crack the bottom of the sink.

For more information, contact Laroc Refrigeration-Metal Division or a similar company.