Detaching Garbage Disposals

Safety First!

• Turn Off Power: Turn off the power to the disposal at the circuit breaker panel.

• Turn Off Water Supply: Turn off the cold water supply to the disposal under the sink.

• Wear Protective Gear: Wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from sharp edges and potential injuries.

Disconnection Steps:

1. Disconnect the Power: If the power hasn't been disconnected at the circuit breaker panel, do it before proceeding, and confirm with a voltage tester.

2. Disconnect the Electrical Cord: If the disposal has a detachable cord, unplug it from the electrical outlet.

   • If it's hard wired, disconnect the electrical within the power block plate, by removing 1 screw (don't lose it) and removing the wire nuts holding the 2 wires & the ground that's anchored inside the power block area. Loosen both screws associated with the strain relief, and pull the wires out of the housing. Reinstall the wire nuts to the wires feeding the garbage disposal.

3. Disconnect the Drain Lines: * Place a bucket or pan under the sink to catch any remaining water.

   • Loosen the clamp holding the dishwasher discharge to the side of the garbage disposal, if one exists.

   • Unscrew the drain line from the side of the disposal. 

4. Disconnect the Garbage Disposal From The Sink Ring: 

   • Use a screwdriver or allen wrench tool to rotate the ring about 45 degrees counter clockwise.

   • Be prepared, as the garbage disposals are heavy & they drop almost immediately. 

   • There is a tool that drops into the disposal from the top, that prevents the disposal from dropping while removing (or when installing.)

5. Move the garbage disposal:

   • Move the disposal to a location that will not be in the way.

Disposal

• Check Local Regulations: Contact your local waste management authority for proper disposal guidelines. Some areas may have specific regulations for disposing of old appliances.

• Recycling: In some cases, you may be able to recycle the old disposal. Contact your local recycling center for more information.