My garbage disposal needs to be replaced - how do I do it?

Question

where do I buy the parts I need? What tools am I going to need?

Answer 1

If you replace it with the same type it will be very easy.  Turn off the power, disconnect the wiring, disconnect the drain line and dishwasher line.  At the top of the g/d is a ring that will turn about a 1/4 turn counter clockwise and the g/d will drop, so make sure you have a good grip on it.  Installation is in the reverse but be sure to remove the knockout where the dishwasher connection is if you have a dishwasher, otherwise the d/w won't drain.  Tools needs are usually a large pair of channelocks to remove the drain, screwdriver or 5/16 nut driver to remove the dishwasher connections, straight or Phillips screwdriver for the electrical connections, hammer and drift punch or something similar to remove the knockout for the dishwasher if needed to remove.  If your drain pipes are metal you probably will need to replace them as often they are rusted but don't show until you try to remove them.  A hack saw might be needed to cut the drain lines or the stub that comes out of the garbage disposal.

Answer 2

You'll need to disconnect the plumbing (usually calls for a pipewrench, and if you have a dishwasher, then you'll also need a screwdriver to undo the clamp holding that drain in place).

The disposal itself is held in place by a ring, to the underside of the sink.  Just a note... the disposal may be heavier than you expect, when you disconnect it, hehehe.

A new disposal will come with a detailed set of instructions.

If you have a dishwasher, don't forget to remove the 'knockout' plug, before  you hook up the drain.

(It used to take me 15 minutes to replace one of these, in an apartment complex)

Have Fun

Answer 3

the only part you will need is a new disposal. i suggest a big one! 3/4 HP or so. the new appliance will have complete instructions. combined with the above answer, you should have this task completed in four hours or so. basic hand tools and patience will be required.

also, you will have to wire the new appliance with a pig tail for the outlet. JUST FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS! it will be ok.

oh one other thing, you will probably need a small thing of plummbers putty to seat the sink drain. you just use a tiny amount when you re-set the drain of the sink. plummbers putty!