Last week, my kitchen sink backed up, and the culprit? A worn-out garbage disposal. The awful smell and the prospect of a plumber’s bill had me searching online for solutions. That’s when I discovered how to change a whirlaway garbage disposal myself, saving both money and a lot of stress. This guide will walk you through the entire process, showing you how to tackle this home repair project successfully and confidently. You’ll learn everything from safely disconnecting the old unit to properly installing the new one, avoiding common mistakes along the way. Learning how to change a whirlaway garbage disposal can be empowering and save you hundreds of dollars.
Key Takeaways
- Master the steps to replace a Whirlaway garbage disposal.
- Learn to safely disconnect and reconnect plumbing and electrical connections.
- Understand the different types of Whirlaway disposals and their features.
- Discover how to troubleshoot common issues during installation.
- Save money by performing the replacement yourself.
Preparing for the Replacement
This section covers the essential preparations before you begin the actual replacement. It’s crucial to gather the necessary tools, shut off utilities, and understand the basic components of your Whirlaway garbage disposal. Safety is paramount, and proper preparation ensures a smooth and efficient installation.
Gathering Tools and Materials
- Basin Wrench: Essential for loosening and tightening the disposal’s mounting ring.
- Screwdrivers (Phillips and Flathead): Used for removing screws and securing connections.
- Pliers (Channel-lock and Needle-nose): Helpful for gripping and manipulating various components.
- Bucket: To catch any remaining water in the disposal.
- New Whirlaway Garbage Disposal: Naturally, you’ll need a replacement unit.
A basin wrench allows you to access and turn the ring from above, eliminating the need to reach under the sink.
Having both types of screwdrivers is essential as different parts of the disposal might use different screw types.
Channel-locks are useful for larger components while needle-nose pliers offer precision for smaller parts.
This prevents water from spilling and making a mess during the replacement process.
Ensure that you purchase a model compatible with your existing plumbing and electrical setup.
Disconnecting Utilities
- Turn off the power to the garbage disposal at the breaker box. This is crucial for safety.
- Turn off the water supply lines leading to the disposal. Typically, these are located under the sink.
- Place a bucket under the disposal to catch any residual water.
Understanding Whirlaway Disposal Components
Before starting the replacement, familiarize yourself with the key components. This includes the mounting ring, the electrical connections, the drain lines (both inlet and outlet), and the motor housing. A clear understanding of these will ensure a straightforward installation process. A diagram of a Whirlaway disposal would be very helpful here. Insert a diagram of a Whirlaway garbage disposal here.
- Mounting Ring: Secures the disposal to the sink.
- Electrical Connections: Power supply for the motor.
- Inlet and Outlet Drain Lines: Connect the disposal to the sink drain and the main drain line.
- Motor Housing: The main body of the disposal containing the motor and grinding chamber.
The mounting ring connects the disposal to the sink and ensures stability. It’s typically clamped or screwed in.
The electrical connections transmit power from the breaker to the disposal motor. Incorrect connections can cause malfunction or damage.
These lines ensure proper drainage. It’s essential to seal these connections tightly to prevent leaks.
This is the core of the disposal and should be handled carefully to avoid damage.
Removing the Old Whirlaway Garbage Disposal
This section details the step-by-step process of carefully removing your old Whirlaway garbage disposal. Properly disconnecting the plumbing and electrical components is crucial. Take your time and follow each step meticulously to avoid any damage or leaks.
Disconnecting the Drain Lines
- Loosen the slip nuts connecting the inlet and outlet drain lines.
- Carefully remove the drain lines from the disposal. A bucket underneath is highly recommended.
- Clean the drain pipes to remove any debris.
Disconnecting the Electrical Wiring
- Carefully disconnect the electrical wires from the disposal. Take a picture beforehand to help with reconnection.
- Securely tape the wires to prevent accidental contact.
- Double-check that the power is off at the breaker.
Removing the Mounting Assembly
- Use a basin wrench to loosen the mounting ring securing the disposal to the sink.
- Carefully remove the disposal from the sink.
- Inspect the mounting area for any damage or debris before installation of the new unit.
Installing the New Whirlaway Garbage Disposal
This section provides the step-by-step guide for installing the new Whirlaway garbage disposal. It’s crucial to connect the plumbing and electrical components correctly, ensuring a tight seal and safe operation. Remember to refer to your new unit’s instruction manual.
Connecting the Drain Lines
- Carefully attach the inlet and outlet drain lines to the new disposal, making sure the connections are tight.
- Ensure there are no gaps or leaks between the lines and the disposal.
- Tighten the slip nuts firmly to prevent leaks.
Connecting the Electrical Wiring
- Connect the electrical wires to the new disposal, matching the colors with the wiring diagram from the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Secure the wiring connections tightly.
- Turn the power back on at the breaker box. Test the unit’s operation to ensure correct wiring.
Securing the Mounting Assembly
- Use the basin wrench to tighten the mounting ring, securing the disposal firmly to the sink.
- Check the disposal for stability.
- Turn on the water supply lines and test the system to ensure no leaks.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
This section addresses common problems encountered during the installation or operation of a Whirlaway garbage disposal. It’s crucial to understand these common problems to quickly resolve any installation challenges. These could range from simple issues such as leaks to more complex problems requiring a professional’s intervention.
Leaks
- Problem: Water leaking from the drain connections.
- Solution: Tighten all connections and replace any damaged washers or seals.
This is the most common issue, often caused by loose slip nuts or damaged seals. Check all connections and retighten or replace damaged seals.
Disposal Not Working
- Problem: The disposal isn’t turning on.
- Solution: Check your breaker box; reset the breaker if necessary. Inspect the electrical connections; ensure they’re firmly connected.
This can be due to a tripped breaker or a faulty electrical connection. Check the power supply and wiring.
Humming Noise
- Problem: The disposal hums but doesn’t grind.
- Solution: Turn off the power. Carefully remove the blockage. If the problem persists, the motor might need replacing.
This usually indicates an overloaded disposal or a jammed motor. Remove any large debris and check for blockages.
Debunking Common Myths
Myth 1: Only plumbers can change a garbage disposal.
False! With the right tools and instructions, anyone can replace a garbage disposal.
Myth 2: Replacing a garbage disposal is extremely difficult.
False! While it requires some technical skills, following this step-by-step guide will make the process manageable.
Myth 3: All garbage disposals are the same.
False! Different brands and models have different features and installation procedures.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I replace my garbage disposal?
The average lifespan of a garbage disposal is 8-10 years. However, this can vary depending on usage and maintenance.
What are the different types of Whirlaway garbage disposals?
Whirlaway offers various models with different horsepower, features (like a sound insulation system), and grind chambers. Review Whirlaway’s website for specific models and details.
What should I do if my disposal is leaking after replacement?
Check all connections for leaks, retighten any loose nuts, and ensure all seals are intact. If the leak persists, you might need to replace the seals or consult a plumber.
Can I use a different brand of disposal to replace my Whirlaway?
Yes, but ensure the replacement model is compatible with your plumbing and electrical systems. Consult your plumbing and electrical diagrams before replacement.
What happens if I accidentally turn on the power before disconnecting the old unit?
You risk electric shock. Always turn off the power at the breaker box before working on your disposal.
What if I damage something during installation?
Consult a plumber for assistance. Attempting repairs without proper knowledge might result in additional damage.
Final Thoughts
Replacing your Whirlaway garbage disposal is a manageable DIY project if you follow the steps outlined in this guide. By taking your time, preparing thoroughly, and paying close attention to detail, you can save money and gain a sense of accomplishment. Remember, safety is paramount. If you encounter any significant challenges, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Now you are equipped to handle your next disposal replacement with confidence. Don’t forget to check for local disposal recycling programs to dispose of your old unit responsibly. So, what are you waiting for? Get started on that project!