During hectic days where taking care of everything at home can be quite overwhelming, we often end up overlooking our kitchen garbage, and it ends up developing a foul smell, making it inconvenient. In this article, we will explain how to install a kitchen garbage disposal which will save you from foul kitchen smells and the hassle of dealing with waste.
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See also: How to clean a garbage disposal?
Types of garbage disposals
- Continuous feed disposals: The most common type of garbage disposals, these let you add food waste as they are still running. Although convenient, they require greater caution while you are using them.
- Batch feed disposals: These garbage disposals work when a stopper is put in its place. They are safer but are not as convenient as the continuous feed disposals.
Garbage disposal installation: Safety precautions
- The first step is to turn off the power as well as the water supply to the kitchen.
- Wear protective gear, which includes gloves and goggles.
- Some garbage disposals have special requirements and can be installed in certain ways.
- Make sure you read the manufacturer’s instructions before starting the process.
Garbage disposal installation: Process
Necessary equipment
- Garbage disposal unit
- Mounting assembly
- Electrical cable
- Screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench
- Plumber’s putty
- Plunger
- Pipe wrench
- Hammer
- Bucket
- Towels or rags
- Safety goggles
- Gloves
Before you choose a garbage disposal
- Noise level: Make sure that the garbage disposal that you choose doesn’t make much noise.
- Size: Make sure that the garbage disposal fits your kitchen.
Start the installation process
Start by attaching the mounting assembly, i.e. the flange, mounting ring and gasket at the opening of the drain. You can use putty to create a seal. Make sure to align the mounting ring with the assembly and securely lock it. Then with the help of a screwdriver, tighten the screws to ensure that the disposal unit stays in its place.
Connect the drain pipes
As the next step, you have to connect the drainpipe from the sink’s drain trap to the disposal. You can secure it with slip nuts and make sure you do not over-tighten them. In the case of a dishwasher, the hose needs to be connected to the dishwasher inlet of the garbage disposal.
Wire the disposal
For the wiring part, connect the wires that match in colour. Use wire nuts to secure and then use electrical tape for better safety. Secure the cable in a way that it doesn’t interfere with moving parts.
If there is no wire attached to your disposal, you can read the manufacturer’s instructions on how to attach one and then repeat the process stated above.
Secure the unit
Once you ensure that the disposal is aligned with the mounting assembly as well as the drainpipe, use screws to secure the mounting unit and then turn the power on to check for any leakages and unusual noises.
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Maintaining the garbage disposal
- Do not grind large food items such as bones. Also, prevent disposing of non-food items.
- Do not overload the disposal with waste.
- Keep it clean by regularly grinding ice cubes, and to get rid of bad odours, use citrusy food.
- Regularly check for any leakages and other issues, such as unusual noises.
FAQs
Can I set up a garbage disposal on my own?
Yes. You may set up your own garbage disposal if you follow the right procedures.
Is a garbage disposal necessary in a kitchen?
A garbage disposal is a perfect addition if you and your family prepare three or more substantial meals each week in your kitchen and you occasionally have some food waste.
What are the cons of garbage disposal?
Garbage disposals can strain wastewater treatment systems and release organic matter into water bodies, potentially harming aquatic life and ecosystems. Misuse or improper disposal of certain materials can lead to clogs and damage in plumbing pipes, necessitating costly repairs or replacements.
How durable are garbage disposals?
Garbage disposal units typically last between 10 and 12 years if maintained properly.
How do I tackle the problem of leakage after installing garbage disposals?
One of the major reasons for leakage is an unsecured drain pipe. Make sure all the pipes and connections are well secured.
Can I throw all kinds of food items in the garbage disposal?
Avoid putting hard food items which cannot be broken down and avoid disposing of grease.
Can I install a garbage disposal if I have a double sink?
Yes, you can easily install a garbage disposal if you have a double sink. You will just have to connect both the sinks to the disposal.
What if the garbage disposal makes unusual noises?
If the garbage disposal makes unusual noises, there might be some problem with the way it has been set up. Go through the troubleshooting section of the manufacturer’s instructions to get an idea about the issue.
What if I have a kitchen with a septic system?
Although a lot of disposal works well with the septic system, you should get a garbage disposal specifically made for this purpose to ensure proper functioning.
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