Replace a Garbage Disposal in 7 Steps

Difficulty: Moderate
Time: 1-2 hours
Cost: $50-300 (unit only; save $100-300 on labor)

Why You'll Like This

Got a garbage disposal that's seen better days? You know the signs, frequent clogs, stubborn odors that refuse to leave, and that harsh grinding that makes you flinch when you hit the switch. Here's the good news: you can swap it out yourself, even if you're not a plumbing pro.

I've guided dozens of homeowners through this project. The secret is slow, steady prep. Rush that, and you pay for it later. This job blends basic plumbing and electrical work (Magnificent Plumbing), and with a little patience you'll have a new unit humming in a couple of hours. You also skip a pro's installation fee, typically $100-300 (Magnificent Plumbing). Nice win.

Cleanup & Disposal

• Dispose of the old disposal unit according to local waste management guidelines, many areas have specific requirements for appliance disposal
• Store leftover plumber's putty in its original container for future projects
• Wipe up any water right away to protect the cabinet
• Keep your installation photos and disposal manual for future reference

Troubleshooting

Problem: Disposal hums but doesn't grind → Fix: Check for jammed items; use disposal wrench to manually turn impellers from the bottom access hole
Problem: Water leaks from mounting area → Fix: Tighten mounting screws evenly; check that putty seal under flange is complete
Problem: Dishwasher won't drain → Fix: Verify knockout plug was completely removed and retrieved; ensure drain hose has no kinks or clogs

Variations & Upgrades

• Budget option: reuse existing mounting hardware if brand matches and all components are in good condition
• Renter-friendly: keep all original parts labeled and stored for easy restoration when moving
• Performance upgrade: consider higher horsepower unit (3/4 HP or 1 HP) for heavy-use kitchens or large families

FAQ

Can I use the old sink flange? Yes, if it's the same brand and in good condition, this can save time and ensure proper fit (YouTube). However, a fresh flange guarantees the best seal.

What if my new disposal is a different brand? You'll likely need to replace the entire mounting assembly, but the process remains the same, just follow the new manufacturer's instructions for assembly order.

How do I know if I need a more powerful disposal? If you frequently cook for 4+ people or regularly dispose of fibrous vegetables, upgrade from 1/3 HP to 3/4 HP for better performance and fewer jams.

What You've Accomplished

You tackled a project that combines basic plumbing and electrical work (Magnificent Plumbing), saved real money on installation, and picked up confidence you can reuse on the next fix. With normal care, your new disposal should serve for years. Run cold water while it operates and skip fibrous materials that tangle the works (UseActive).

Most of all, you proved that methodical prep and solid safety habits make “intimidating” projects doable for any determined DIYer (SWE Sewer Solutions). That momentum carries into your next home project.