How to Install a Garbage Disposal - step by step process guide

How to Install a Garbage Disposal

6 steps 1h 30min Intermediate

Garbage disposal swap is a 60-90 minute DIY. Most are mounted to the existing sink flange with a twist-lock — swap-only, no plumbing changes needed.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

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Step 1: Pick a disposal (match horsepower)

1/3 hp for occasional use. 1/2 hp for everyday cooking. 3/4-1 hp for big families or hard scraps.

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InSinkErator Badger 5 (1/2 hp, standard)

Most-installed disposal. Reliable, cheap. ~$120.

$120 one-time View Details
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InSinkErator Evolution Compact (3/4 hp)

Quieter, handles tougher scraps. ~$210.

$210 one-time View Details
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InSinkErator Evolution Excel (1 hp)

Premium. Fast, quiet, multi-stage grinding. ~$320.

$320 one-time View Details
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Step 2: Turn off power at breaker

Disposal is hardwired or on a plug. Either way, kill power at the breaker first. Use voltage tester to confirm.

Warning: Working on electrical without breaker off = serious injury risk. Always test with non-contact voltage tester before touching wires.

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Klein Tools voltage tester

Confirms power off before touching wires. ~$25.

$25 one-time View Details
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3

Step 3: Disconnect old disposal

Unscrew drain pipe from disposal side. Twist mounting ring counterclockwise to release. Lower disposal carefully (they're heavy, 8-15 lbs).

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Bucket under for drips

Catches water in the trap.

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Have helper support disposal

Heavy and awkward to lower alone.

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4

Step 4: If swap brand: same mount fits

InSinkErator-to-InSinkErator: keep existing mount, just swap unit. Different brands need new mount + sink flange install.

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Same brand swap (easiest)

Twist new disposal into existing mount. 5 minutes.

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Different brand: replace sink flange

Remove old flange, install new with plumber's putty. ~30 extra minutes.

$5 View Details
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5

Step 5: Connect drain + electrical + dishwasher line

Drain pipe back to disposal. Dishwasher knockout plug removed if connected. Electrical to underside.

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Remove dishwasher knockout (if connected)

Punch out the plastic plug inside disposal where dishwasher line attaches. Skip = sink backs up.

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Wire nuts for electrical connection

Black-black, white-white, ground-ground. Cap with wire nuts.

$0.10/use $5 for 50 View Details
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Step 6: Test before reinstalling kickplate

Run water, turn on. Check for drips. Run for 30 seconds with cold water flowing.

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Run water + disposal 30 sec, check for drips

Towel under joints. Wet = leak.

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