How to Install a Garbage Disposal

Solid food waste often gets choked up and blocks the piping of our kitchen sink or wash basin. Clearing out the blockage by removing the clogged solid particles also becomes a messy task, and meanwhile, you have to suffer due to the unpleasant odor. Hence, the best solution to this is installing a garbage disposal unit and getting rid of the problem altogether.

This device has a simple working principle. This unit is usually installed under the kitchen sink, and does the job of shredding solid waste. The shredded pieces of solid food are smaller than 2 mm, and thus, easily pass the plumbing of the sink, along with the water flow.

This disposal unit was launched in the year 1983 by John W. Hammes (an architect), who perfected it after 11 years of research and development. Today, it is one of the most widely used gadgets in the kitchen.

In order to install the garbage disposer, you will need the following.

• Pipe wrench
• Screwdrivers
• Hose clamp
• Wire nuts
• Plumbers putty
• Hacksaw
• Garbage disposal kit/unit

To install the device, all you need to do is be sure that you systematically follow all the steps described in the instructions manual provided-

Step 1: The first step is to take a survey of the location where you need to put the device unit. There should be an electricity connection in the vicinity to power the disposal unit. If you do not have one available, then you will need to install a small switch board or a wire that can be connected to the disposal unit.

Step 2: In the device kit, you will find a flange piece. All you need to do is apply the plumber's putty all around it and then place it in the drain hole of the sink. Let the putty completely dry out before you go to the next step.

Step 3: In this step, you will need to install the gasket, within the upper and lower rings of the flange that you have already installed. In order to secure the gasket, snap the retaining ring into place. You will notice that the lower ring of the flange has a set of screws. Go on tightening the screws till the flange is firmly fixed into place.

Step 4: Thread in the disposal unit into the flange and gasket. Most of the time, this can be done with the help of a simple screwing-in mechanical function. However, in case of out-of-the-ordinary designs, you might need to follow the manufacturer's instructions.

Step 5: Attach the discharge tube and drain lines to the unit, connect the electricity supply, and give the garbage disposal unit a test run.

It is also important to go through the care manual, as the unit has to be cleaned and maintained from time to time.