How to Remove a Garbage Disposal

Introduction

Removing an old or broken garbage disposal is a common DIY project for many homeowners. Properly removing a garbage disposal involves disconnecting the electrical connections, unmounting the unit from the sink, disconnecting the drain line and sealing up the sink opening.

While it may seem daunting, removing a garbage disposal is actually a pretty straightforward process that most homeowners can tackle themselves in an hour or two with some basic tools. The key is taking the proper precautions, following all safety guidelines and working slowly and carefully.

In this comprehensive guide, we will walk through the entire process of how to remove a garbage disposal step-by-step, from assembling the necessary tools to disconnecting the plumbing and electrical connections. We will also cover important safety tips, precautions for avoiding leaks and damage, and instructions for capping off the drain line once the unit is removed.

Whether you are replacing an old garbage disposal or removing one permanently, this guide has everything you need to safely and successfully remove a garbage disposal on your own. So read on to learn the process from start to finish!

Gather Necessary Tools and Materials

Before starting the removal process, make sure you have gathered all the necessary tools and materials:

Tools

Flashlight – To illuminate the underside of the sink
Wrenches – For loosening slip-nut connections and mounting ring/bolts
Screwdrivers – Both flathead and Phillips head, for electrical connections
Wire cutters/strippers – For disconnecting wiring
Channel lock pliers – For gripping pipes, bolts and nuts
Bucket – For catching any drain water when disconnecting pipes
Gloves – To protect your hands

Materials

Rags/towels – For cleaning up any leaks or drips
Drain plug/stopper – To stop water from draining out of the sink after disconnecting the drain line
Caulk/plumber’s putty – For sealing up the sink opening once unit is removed
Garbage bag/box – For discarding the old disposal unit

Safety Gear

Safety goggles – Protect your eyes from debris
Work gloves – To protect from sharp edges on unit
Knee pads – For comfort when working under sink for long periods

Assembling all of these tools and materials ahead of time will make the removal process go much more smoothly.

Turn Off Power and Water Supply

Before touching the garbage disposal unit, you must turn off both the power and water supply lines:

Shut off the power:

Locate the electrical junction box on the wall behind the sink. This box powers the garbage disposal unit.
Flip the circuit breaker switch that controls the garbage disposal circuit.
Test that power is off by turning on the switch for the disposal – it should not start up.

Turn off water supply:

Locate the shut-off valves controlling both the hot and cold water supply lines under the sink. They are often red and blue knobs.
Turn both shut-off valves clockwise until fully closed.
Turn on the faucet to release any water pressure. Once the flow has stopped, turn off the faucet.
Open the cabinet under the sink and place a bucket beneath the garbage disposal drain pipe to catch any leaking water.

With both the power and water supply stopped, you can now safely work on removing the garbage disposal unit without risk of shock or leaks.

Disconnect and Remove Drain Line

The next step is to disconnect the garbage disposal drain line:

Examine the discharge tube that runs from the disposal unit to the sink drain line. Make note of how it connects.
Loosen the slip-nut connecting the discharge tube using channel locks or a wrench. Turn counter-clockwise to loosen.
Carefully remove the discharge tube from the drain line connector. Allow any residual water to drain into the bucket.
Place a rag into the drain line opening to prevent sewer gases from escaping.
If needed, you can also disconnect the dishwasher discharge tube using the same method. Seal the dishwasher line with a stopper.
Remove the old plumber’s putty seal from around the sink drain opening using a putty knife. Clean the area thoroughly.

The unit is now disconnected from the drain line and ready for complete removal.

Disconnect Wiring and Mounting Hardware

With the plumbing disconnected, we can now work on detaching the disposal unit from the mounting hardware under the sink:

Examine the wiring connections to the garbage disposal. There should be a power cable hooked up to a wall outlet, and sometimes a secondary cable connected to a wall switch.
Unplug the power cord’s plug from the wall outlet.
If connected to a wall switch, disconnect the wiring cable from the disposal wires, using wire cutters to clip any zip ties holding them together.
Release the mounting ring by turning the EZ mounting nuts counter-clockwise with channel locks or wrench. There are usually 3 mounting nuts.
Support the unit by hand or have a partner support the weight once the mounting assembly is disconnected.
Lower the unit and carefully maneuver it out of the cabinet area to remove it.

The unit is now free from all connections and ready for removal from the sink cabinet.

Remove Unit and Clean Sink Opening

With all wiring, plumbing and mounting hardware disconnected, you can now complete the removal:

Maneuver the disposal unit out of the sink cabinet area. The body may need to be twisted to fit through the cabinet opening.
Remove any putty residue or gasket material from the sink drain flange area. Clean the area thoroughly with a rag.
Fill in the sink drain opening with a drain plug or stopper. This will prevent any debris or odors from coming up.
Wipe up any water residue under the sink with dry rags or towels.
Remove the mounting ring assembly from inside the sink cabinet and set aside. This can be reused for the new disposal unit.

With the unit fully removed, do a final check for any leaks and clean the area around the sink drain thoroughly.

Cap Off Drain Line and Close Sink Opening

To complete the removal process:

Stuff some rags into the drain line opening where the disposal tube was removed. This will temporarily stop any sewer gases from escaping.
Use plumber’s putty, silicone or non-hardening pipe joint compound to seal the drain line opening. Make sure it creates an airtight seal.
For a more finished look, install a sink drain tailpiece and P-trap onto the drain line. Connect to the in-sink stopper assembly.
Use plumber’s putty or silicone sealant to seal the sink drain flange opening around the new drain tailpiece.
Re-attach the dishwasher discharge tube if disconnected earlier. Make sure the line is sealed tightly.
Turn the hot and cold shut-off valves back on slowly. Check for any leaks at the drain connections. Tighten if needed.
Turn the circuit breaker back on to restore power to the garbage disposal circuit.

With that, the garbage disposal should be fully removed and the sink plumbing restored. Dispose of the old unit appropriately.

Now the sink is ready for a new garbage disposal installation whenever desired!

Helpful Tips and Precautions

Follow these additional tips for safe garbage disposal removal:

Work slowly and carefully when disconnecting wiring and plumbing.
Support the weight of the disposal unit as you detach it from mounting hardware.
Place a small bucket beneath fittings when disconnecting tubes to catch any leaks.
Make sure to shut off power at the breaker, not just an outlet switch, when working on wiring.
Wear safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself from sharp edges on the unit.
Avoid using excessive force when loosening slip-nut connections.
Plug the electrical opening in the wall with a UL-listed plug if not installing a new disposal.
Make sure all drain line openings are completely sealed to prevent leakage and sewer gas escape.
Consider replacing sink drain baskets and flanges if worn out or damaged.

FAQs About Removing Garbage Disposals

Here are some commonly asked questions about removing garbage disposals:

Do I need to hire a plumber to remove a garbage disposal?

In most cases, no specialized training is required and this is a project a homeowner can tackle themselves. Just be sure to take proper safety precautions and allow enough time to complete all steps carefully.

What problems are caused by an improperly removed garbage disposal?

If power and water lines are not properly disconnected, it can lead to electrical shorts or water leaks. Failing to plug drain lines can allow sewer gases to enter the home or leaks to develop under the sink.

Can I reuse the existing mounting hardware for a new garbage disposal?

In most cases, yes. The mounting ring assembly can usually be detached and reused to mount a new disposal unit. This saves time and money on parts.

What is the hardest part about removing a garbage disposal?

Disconnecting the wiring and drain lines involve the most labor-intensive steps. Patience and proper tools are essential to prevent damage to existing plumbing and electrical connections.

How do I thoroughly clean the area after removal?

Use rags and a mild abrasive pad to remove all old putty, sealant and gasket material around the sink opening after detachment. Wipe up any standing water or moisture.

How can I tell if my electrical or plumbing lines need repairs?

Inspect all electrical wires and water lines during removal. Look for excessive corrosion, cracks, loose connections or damage. Any issues should be addressed before installing a new disposal.

Can I leave my sink without a garbage disposal?

Yes, it is fine to remove the disposal and leave the sink without one installed. Many older homes did not originally have disposals. Just make sure the sink drain opening is fully sealed.

Conclusion

Removing an old or faulty garbage disposal is a straightforward DIY project with the right safety precautions and proper techniques. Carefully disconnecting all wiring and plumbing lines, detaching the mounting hardware, removing the unit and sealing the sink opening are the key steps. Following proper precautions also prevents electrical issues, leaks or damage. With patience and the help of this guide, you can successfully tackle garbage disposal removal on your own.