First patented in 1927, by 1948 General Electric was mass producing
and marketing electric garbage disposals. Since that time they have
remained a popular kitchen accessory; adding convenience to mealtime
preparation and cleanup tasks in households in those localities that
do allow them.
Disposals help reduce urban and landfill waste. And the amount
of garbage collected and disposed of by city services. However,
they also increase the maintenance costs of municipal wastewater
treatment plants, which is why some localities ban their use.
Before installing a garbage disposal in your kitchen, check local
building codes to make sure they are allowed in your area. Also
check what type requirements may be in place for their set up. For
instance, most codes specify that the disposal must be plugged into
a grounded unit, and that they are controlled by an on and off switch.
Types of Disposals
Garbage disposals are one of two types; either batch-fed or continuous
feed. A batch-fed disposal runs only when the drain lid is in place;
they are operated by turning a special stopper after the disposal
receptacle has been loaded with food debris. Because this type disposal
can only be activated while the cavity is covered by the inserted
stopper, these type disposals represent a safer choice.
Continuous feed models are activated by a switch that allows you
to add waste while the motor is turned on. Running water helps to
flush food scraps down the disposal as they are added. The motor
continues to run until the switch is turned off. Both types of disposals
attach to the sink drain system.
The switch should be located on the wall to back of the sink, as
far from the edge of the counter as possible; or in an out of the
way place for safety purposes. Switch location is an important consideration;
especially in households with small children.
The Installation process
A new dedicated 20 amp circuit should be installed under the sink
in close proximity to power the new garbage disposal. Although switches
and outlets should be installed by an electrician, installing the
garbage disposal itself isn’t all that difficult for the resourceful
homeowner with some plumbing knowledge.
Installation is relatively uncomplicated. Requiring the use of
silicone caulk or plumber’s putty, mineral spirits, and only
the most basic of tools to accomplish the task; both flat-tip and
Phillips-head screwdrivers, a utility knife, hose clamps, pipe wrench,
slip nuts, beveled washers, and a flashlight.
Before installation, make sure that the dedicated circuit for the
disposal is turned off at the circuit box. Do this by either turning
off the breaker or removing the fuse.
Now you are ready to begin the installation process; follow
these simple steps:
- Remove the existing drainpipe and p-trap using the pipe wrench;
place a bucket or another container underneath to catch any water
remaining in the drainpipe.
- Remove the strainer body from the sink by unscrewing the large
nut that holds it in place under the sink. Be sure to scrape off
any old putty from around the sink opening, and then clean the
opening completely using denatured alcohol or mineral spirits.
- Apply a bead of silicone caulk or plumber’s putty under
the edge of the drain opening sleeve. Insert the sleeve into the
drain opening; press down evenly to ensure a good seal.
- Working underneath the sink, place the fiber gasket and backup
ring onto the sleeve. Attach the lower mounting ring onto the
sleeve and put the snap ring in place.
- Position the disposer against the lower mounting ring; line
the lugs up with the mounting screws, and then tighten the screws.
Be sure and alternate tightening each screw so the mounting bracket
is evenly seated against the bottom of the sink.
- Remove the bottom plate on the disposer to expose the wiring.
Position the garbage disposal under the sink; connect wires from
the garbage disposal to the wires from the power source with wire
nuts; white to white, and black to black.
- Connect the green ground wire from the disposal to the green
ground wire on the power source; replace the disposer’s
bottom plate to cover the wires.
- Fasten the discharge tube to the discharge opening with the
mounting washer.
- If a dishwasher will be attached to the disposal, remove the
knockout plug from the dishwasher opening. Carefully tap it out
using a screw driver and hammer; attach the dishwasher drain hose
with a hose clamp.
- Attach the drainpipe to the discharge tube and gasket using
a slip nut and beveled washer. If the discharge tube is too long,
cut it to fit. If it is too short, purchase an extension piece.
Make sure the washer faces the threaded drainpipe.
- Secure the disposal by inserting a screwdriver into the mounting
lug located on the lower mounting ring. Tighten the mounting lug
screw.
Once installation is complete, test the unit out and check for
any leaks.
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