How to Get Started with Sink Garbage Disposal in Austin, Texas 78620

Having a working garbage disposal can make life easier for homeowners in Austin, Texas. Although unclogging a sink or disposing of food remains can be done without a disposal, having one makes the process simpler and less messy. Fortunately, installing a new sink garbage disposal is a relatively simple task.

Depending on the type of disposal, existing Plumbing, and access to the sink, installing a sink garbage disposal may be a DIY job or it may be best left to a professional plumber. Many people are easily intimidated by plumbing tasks because it is a precise job and any mistake can cause flooding and other serious damages. At Abacus Residential & Commercial Plumbing, we are committed to providing quality services at competitive prices in order to help you solve any plumbing matters.

This article will review the basics of disposals, assistance that our plumbers can offer, and the steps required for a DIY installation.

What is a Sink Garbage Disposal?

A sink garbage disposal is an electronic appliance that attaches beneath a kitchen sink, shreds food scraps into smaller pieces, and flushes them out to a municipal Sewer line or septic tank. Not only do these units save time, but they also reduce the smell of spoiled food and prevent clogged pipes. It also lessens the amount of organic waste going into landfills, making for a greener environment.

Before purchasing a disposal unit, it is important to know the exact size and types of food waste that will be flushed through the sink to avoid an overloaded disposal system or one that simply isn't powerful enough. Some of the most common disposal models include batch feed disposals (activated by a stopper) and continuous feed disposals (activated at the turn of a switch). For more information about determining the best disposal option for you, don't hesitate to reach out to our trained team at Abacus for assistance.

Shop for a Disposal Unit

After selecting the type of garbage disposal, it's time to select the right model. One of the most important considerations is motor size. The 1/2 horsepower motor is powerful enough for most basic disposal needs, 1 horsepower motors are best for higher volumes, and continuous feeding requires 1 and 1/2 horsepower or higher. It is also important to examine the warranty information, included features, and size of the grind chamber, as larger rooms accommodate more food wastes.

Our team at Abacus can advise you on the correct disposal for your needs and can source the perfect disposal for you if needed.

Preparing the Sink for Installation

To prepare for installation of the garbage disposal, start by turning off the power to the kitchen circuit. Then remove the old disposer unit by using an Allen wrench, disconnecting the drain line, and taking it out. Take all of the necessary measurements for the new disposal unit.

Install the Drain Pipes

Most disposers come with two drainpipes. The inlet pipe is connected to the dishwasher and the outlet pipe is connected to the sink tailpiece. The inlet pipe should measure approximately 12 inches, while the outlet pipe should measure 18 inches. Thread the tailpiece of the sink into the disposal and mount the rubber gasket. To prevent any leakage, seal the connections with plumber's putty.

Carefully slide the disposal unit into place and fasten it with the provided mounting screws.

Connect the Electric Wires

Once the disposal unit is in place, carefully remove the wiring cover and the motor mounting screws. Next, note the shapes and symbols on the current wires and the corresponding wires on the hardware. As a safety precaution, ensure that the wires are disconnected from the power source. Connect the control switch to the motor and wire the ground wire. For safety reasons, it is best to have an Electrician do the wiring of a disposal if the homeowner is not familiar with the process.

Testing and Final Steps

Before testing the garbage disposal, run water to the sink to make sure there are no more leaks. Replace the mounting screws and the drain cover. Turn on the power to the circuit and let the motor run for a few seconds before testing the sink. To test the disposer, turn on the switch and push on the reset button. If the sound of the engine is loud, it is installed correctly and it's time to dispose of some food.

At Abacus, our experienced and certified plumbers can help make the task of garbage disposal installation hassle-free. We will also answer any questions you may have about the installation and use of your new disposal unit. Give us a call today and discuss your disposal needs.

Sink Garbage Disposal

Austin

Texas