Replacing a Garbage Disposal

If the home has not had a disposal before, check to see if there is an outlet under the sink. If there is you will still have to thread a wire up through the wall to put in a switch to turn the disposal on and off. If there is no power you will have to bring a line down from one of the outlets above the counter.

If you are replacing a disposal the biggest challenge is going to be dealing with the old plumbing connections. If the home is old enough that the disposal has failed or corroded through, then the drain lines and fittings are probably in the same shape.

You may also find some really creative plumbing work where previous occupants have ”fixed” things. For this project I would plan on multiple trips to the hardware store so allow plenty of time.

I have actually had the displeasure of repairing a disposal where a previous occupant had used duct tape and caulk to fix (or at least slow down) a leak. What a mess.

Before starting the project, if you look under the sink and it looks cruddy, you can save yourself time and hassle by just buying all new parts and replacing the whole thing. Sometimes spending the extra $10 is well worth the expense, since it won’t take you all day or cause you further problems by leaking water into the cabinets.

{ 2 comments… read them below }
Richard
I own a manufactured home and need to replace the disposal. Can I use a Badger 5 or 9 unit as sold in Home Depot or do I need a special unit designed for mobile homes.
Paul
Yes. They are the same.