1. **Turn Off Power**: Ensure the power to the kitchen is off at the circuit breaker. 2. **Remove Old Disposal**: Disconnect the drain pipes and remove the old disposal unit if present. Detach the mounting assembly from the sink. 3. **Install New Mounting Assembly**: Apply plumber’s putty around the flange and insert it into the sink drain. Attach the gasket, backup ring, and mounting ring from underneath. Secure with the snap ring and tighten the screws. 4. **Prepare Disposal Unit**: If connecting to a dishwasher, remove the knockout plug from the disposal unit. Attach the discharge tube to the disposal. 5. **Mount Disposal**: Align the disposal with the mounting assembly and twist it into place. Ensure it is securely locked. 6. **Connect Plumbing**: Reattach the drain pipes and, if applicable, connect the dishwasher hose to the disposal. 7. **Wire Disposal**: Connect the disposal to the power supply. If hardwired, connect the wires according to the disposal’s instructions. If using a plug, ensure the outlet is properly grounded. 8. **Test for Leaks**: Turn on the water and check for leaks. Tighten connections if necessary. 9. **Test Disposal**: Restore power and test the disposal by running water and turning it on. Ensure it operates smoothly without unusual noises. 10. **Final Check**: Double-check all connections and ensure everything is secure and leak-free.

The size of the garbage disposal you need depends on several factors, including the size of your household and your cooking habits. Here’s a guide to help you choose: 1. **Household Size:** - **1-2 People:** A 1/3 to 1/2 horsepower (HP) disposal is usually sufficient. These are suitable for light use and can handle soft food scraps. - **3-5 People:** A 1/2 to 3/4 HP disposal is recommended. This size can handle a moderate amount of food waste and is ideal for small to medium families. - **5+ People:** A 3/4 to 1 HP disposal is ideal. These are powerful enough for larger families and can handle tougher food waste like small bones and fibrous vegetables. 2. **Cooking Habits:** - **Light Use:** If you rarely cook or generate minimal food waste, a 1/3 to 1/2 HP disposal should suffice. - **Moderate Use:** For regular cooking and average food waste, a 1/2 to 3/4 HP disposal is appropriate. - **Heavy Use:** If you cook frequently and generate a lot of food waste, opt for a 3/4 to 1 HP disposal. 3. **Additional Considerations:** - **Noise Level:** Higher HP models often have better sound insulation. - **Durability:** Stainless steel components are more durable and resistant to corrosion. - **Space:** Ensure the disposal fits under your sink and is compatible with your plumbing. By considering these factors, you can select a garbage disposal that meets your needs and ensures efficient waste management in your kitchen.

1. **Safety First**: Turn off the power to the garbage disposal. Unplug it from the outlet under the sink or turn off the circuit breaker to ensure it doesn't accidentally turn on. 2. **Inspect the Disposal**: Use a flashlight to look inside the disposal through the sink drain. Avoid putting your hand inside. Look for any visible obstructions like food particles or foreign objects. 3. **Use Tongs or Pliers**: If you see any objects, use tongs or pliers to carefully remove them. Never use your hands. 4. **Reset the Disposal**: Locate the reset button on the bottom of the disposal unit. Press it to reset the motor. 5. **Use a Plunger**: If the disposal is still clogged, fill the sink with a few inches of water. Use a sink plunger to create suction over the drain. Plunge up and down several times to dislodge the clog. 6. **Try Baking Soda and Vinegar**: Pour half a cup of baking soda into the disposal, followed by a cup of vinegar. Let it fizz for a few minutes, then rinse with hot water. 7. **Use an Allen Wrench**: Insert an Allen wrench into the hex socket on the bottom of the disposal. Turn it back and forth to manually rotate the blades and dislodge the clog. 8. **Flush with Water**: Run hot water through the disposal for a few minutes to clear any remaining debris. 9. **Test the Disposal**: Restore power and test the disposal by running water and turning it on. If it still doesn't work, consider calling a professional plumber.

A garbage disposal can handle small food scraps, but certain items should be avoided to prevent damage and clogs. **What Can Be Put in a Garbage Disposal:** 1. **Soft Foods:** Small amounts of cooked vegetables, fruits, and grains. 2. **Citrus Peels:** Lemon or orange peels can help freshen the disposal. 3. **Small Bones:** Tiny chicken or fish bones can be ground up, but in moderation. 4. **Ice Cubes:** Can help clean the blades and remove odors. 5. **Cold Water:** Always run cold water to help solidify any grease, making it easier to chop. **What Cannot Be Put in a Garbage Disposal:** 1. **Fibrous Vegetables:** Celery, asparagus, and corn husks can tangle and jam the blades. 2. **Grease and Oil:** Can solidify and cause clogs in pipes. 3. **Eggshells:** The membrane can wrap around the shredder ring. 4. **Coffee Grounds:** Can accumulate and form a sludge-like substance. 5. **Pasta and Rice:** Expand with water and can cause blockages. 6. **Large Bones:** Can damage the blades and motor. 7. **Nuts and Shells:** Hard and can dull the blades. 8. **Non-Food Items:** Plastic, metal, glass, and paper should never be disposed of in a garbage disposal. Proper use and maintenance of a garbage disposal can extend its life and efficiency. Always run cold water before, during, and after use to help flush debris through the system.

1. **Power Off**: Ensure the garbage disposal is turned off by unplugging it or switching off the circuit breaker. 2. **Remove Debris**: Use tongs or pliers to remove any visible debris or food particles from the disposal. 3. **Clean the Splash Guard**: Remove the rubber splash guard and scrub it with a brush and dish soap to eliminate grime and odors. 4. **Flush with Water**: Run cold water through the disposal for about 30 seconds to rinse away loose particles. 5. **Use Ice and Salt**: Pour a cup of ice cubes and half a cup of rock salt into the disposal. Run cold water and turn on the disposal to clean the blades and remove buildup. 6. **Baking Soda and Vinegar**: Pour half a cup of baking soda followed by a cup of vinegar into the disposal. Let it fizz for 10-15 minutes, then rinse with hot water to deodorize and clean. 7. **Citrus Freshness**: Grind small pieces of citrus peels (like lemon or orange) to freshen and clean the disposal. 8. **Brush the Interior**: Use a long-handled brush to scrub the interior walls and blades if accessible. 9. **Regular Maintenance**: Run the disposal regularly with cold water to prevent rust and buildup. Avoid grinding fibrous, starchy, or hard materials. 10. **Professional Check**: Schedule periodic professional inspections to ensure optimal performance and address any mechanical issues. By following these steps, you can effectively clean and maintain your garbage disposal, ensuring it operates efficiently and remains odor-free.

A humming noise from your garbage disposal typically indicates that the motor is running but the blades are not turning. This can be caused by several issues: 1. **Jammed Impellers**: The most common reason is a jam. Food particles, utensils, or other debris may be stuck between the impellers and the grinding ring, preventing movement. 2. **Overloaded Motor**: If too much waste is fed into the disposal at once, it can overload the motor, causing it to hum without turning the blades. 3. **Faulty Motor**: A malfunctioning motor might hum if it’s receiving power but unable to turn the blades due to internal issues. 4. **Worn Bearings**: Over time, the bearings in the motor can wear out, leading to a humming noise as the motor struggles to turn the impellers. 5. **Loose Components**: Loose mounting screws or other components can cause the unit to vibrate and produce a humming sound. 6. **Electrical Issues**: Problems with the electrical connection, such as a faulty switch or wiring, can cause the motor to hum without engaging the blades. To address the issue, first, turn off the disposal and unplug it. Use a flashlight to inspect for visible obstructions. If a jam is suspected, use a hex key in the bottom slot of the disposal to manually turn the impellers and dislodge any debris. Reset the unit by pressing the reset button on the bottom. If the problem persists, consider consulting a professional to check for motor or electrical issues. Regular maintenance and proper use can prevent future problems.

1. **Turn Off Power**: Ensure the garbage disposal is turned off. Unplug it from the outlet under the sink or turn off the circuit breaker that supplies power to it. 2. **Locate the Reset Button**: Find the reset button on the bottom or side of the disposal unit. It is usually a small, red, or black button. 3. **Press the Reset Button**: Press the reset button firmly. If it has tripped, you may feel a click as it resets. 4. **Check for Jams**: Use a flashlight to look inside the disposal for any visible obstructions. Do not put your hand inside. Use tongs or pliers to remove any debris. 5. **Manually Rotate the Blades**: Insert an Allen wrench into the hex socket at the bottom center of the disposal. Turn the wrench back and forth to manually rotate the blades and dislodge any stuck items. 6. **Restore Power**: Plug the disposal back in or turn the circuit breaker back on. 7. **Test the Disposal**: Turn on the cold water tap and then turn on the disposal switch to test if it is working properly. 8. **Repeat if Necessary**: If the disposal still doesn’t work, repeat the process. If it continues to malfunction, consider consulting a professional plumber or replacing the unit.