Kitchen Plumbing Renovation Project: Install A Disposal
by Clare Kaufman
Repair Home Columnist
If you're planning a kitchen renovation, you may want to throw in the kitchen sink--or at least a new garbage disposal. Installing a new garbage disposal is a plumbing project within reach for most homeowners. Today's disposals make short work of kitchen cleanup, turning the plumbing under the sink into a convenient garbage chute.
A brand new disposal can take your kitchen plumbing to the next level. If you already have a dedicated electrical outlet under the sink, this renovation project is fairly straightforward. If not, you may want to call in an electrical contractor to put in the necessary wiring first.
A Kitchen Plumbing Renovation
- Remove the existing kitchen sink strainer. Place a bucket under the sink, beneath the "J" trap. Use a pipe wrench to loosen the slip nuts and remove the "J," dumping the water into the bucket.
- Remove the strainer and use a putty knife to scrape away any remaining plumbing putty and debris.
- Next, install the sink flange of the disposal unit. Apply plumbing putty around the drain, then set the sink flange into it and press down.
- From beneath the kitchen sink, attach the mounting ring and gasket and slide them up the flange. Look for a snap ring that you can connect to the flange to secure the ring and gasket.
- Tighten the mounting bolts to install the unit, tightening all three evenly. Wipe away any excess plumbing putty from the sink bowl.
- With the disposal installed, you're ready to attach the electrical wiring. If you're unfamiliar with electrical systems, consult an electrical contractor to help with this part of the renovation project.
- When the wiring is in place, you're ready to install the disposal. Fit the unit into the mounting assembly, turning it to lock in place.
- Connect the plumbing pipes. If the "J" trap is no longer aligned, you may have to install some PVC plumbing pipes or call a plumbing contractor to help.
- Once you've connected the plumbing and tightened the locknuts, tighten the rotating collar on the mounting assembly to lock the disposal in place.
- Check for leaks, inspecting seals and locknuts.
If the plumbing is sound, the disposal is ready for its test run. Run a steady stream of water, flip the switch, and celebrate the success of your kitchen plumbing renovation project.
Source
About the Author
Clare Kaufman works as a writer and editor for an online media company. She has completed a graduate degree in English.
