Garbage Disposals

A garbage disposal, also known as waste disposal unit or garburator, is a device underneath a sink that shreds food waste so that it can pass through plumbing. A garbage disposal is a great way to keep the smells of old garbage out of your garbage cans and kitchen. The first and foremost requirement before installing a garbage disposer is an electric outlet under the sink with 120 volt, 20 amp circuit breaker.

Garbage Disposals Installation

Installing a garbage disposal can be relatively very simple. The first step is to measure work area so that there is enough space under the sink for placing disposal. Keep in mind the new disposal also when you mark your area of work. Once it is clear how much space will be required, next, turn off the power to the disposal at the circuit breaker level so as to avoid any contact with live current. Then disconnect drain lines and push bottom of the drain totally taking it out through the sink. Then remove the old plumber.s putty around the opening of the sink. After completing this, slide the new disposal over the area of attachment keeping with the alignment of the slots and tabs. After the new disposal has been pushed on the top of the drain, secure it on the drain by rotating it counter clockwise. It needs to be secured tightly, so check using a flashlight as it will be dark in there. Some screws will need to be tightened in the new attachment and that can be adjusted if needed.

If there is need for replacing drain pipes as well as trap, it can be done now so as to prevent repair in future. Complete the process by replacing the cover and completing the wiring as instructed. Restore the power after filling the sink with cold water. Then check for leaks from drain if it was replaced. Check for leaks in new disposal unit near its neck. If there are leaks, tighten up the joints and then test again for leaks.

Then turn the power on. Check whether the new disposal unit functions properly. If it does, then fine. If not, wiring needs to be checked. Read the instructions regarding the same available with the new disposal unit. Then check all the connections.

Garbage Disposals Maintenance

Most of the garbage disposals units clean automatically and are free from any maintenance problems. But if a garbage disposal unit starts to malfunction, it can cause lots of problems. The following steps can help is keeping them in proper working condition:

It is advisable to always run cold water while grinding so that the waste is moved through the drain lines. As fats and grease harden in cold water, they are flushed out through the system. It is to be noted that hot water dissolves grease and fat which accumulate in the drainline. So, its use must be avoided. Nearly every biodegradable food waste must be fed into disposals. But it is preferable not to throw corn husks, oyster shells, clams or any other high fiber content as well as glass, metal, plastic or any non-food material into the disposal. Also, throwing bottle caps, aluminum foil and tin covers should be avoided.

Maintenance of garbage disposal unit is very easy. Grinding egg shells and small bones may helps clean the disposal as they scrap away deposits. Grinding a small quantity of ice can also help in cleaning out deposits and getting rid of odor.

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