Rewiring a garbage disposal help?

Question

I had to replace my garbage disposal and didn't look at what wires came out of the old one. On the new disposal is a white and black as well as green (ground) on the old plug the wires are all black except one has grooves does that go to the wite wire or the black one on the new disposal. I don't want to wire it worng and fry the new disposal.

Thanks

Answer 1

Most garbage disposals work off a plug(120V, 20A). Was the original disposal not plugged into a wall outlet under the sink? Are there 3 of the "old" wires or just 2? Is there a switch that operates the disposal? Sorry so many questions, but it will be impossible for any one to tell you where the wires go without some color markings. 120 Volts is signified by wire color.... black - 120V, white - Neutral, and  green - ground. If this color scheme was not followed for the incoming power it will have to be checked with a tester of some sort. If it is attached to a switch.... and most are.... then you may be able to look in the switch box and see how the wires are attached there. The 120V wire should be attached to the switch, the neutral should  be spliced together with a wire nut, and the ground should be a bare copper and also be spliced together with a wire nut. If there are no identifying markings/colors in the switch box you will need a tester that reads voltage to be able to find the power wire. If you need help, feel free to email. Good Luck.

Answer 2

With the breaker off seperate the wires under your sink for the disposal.

Flip the breaker for the disposal.

Test the 2 wires to find out which one is getting power.

Flip the breaker back off

Connect this wire to the positive or hot wire for your disposal, see the instructions for it.  

Connect the other wire and the ground and youve got yourself a meat grinder.