Is your old food waste disposer finally broken? Installing a new shredder is not a problem if you have all the tools you need. First make sure you have the correct type of shredder for your plumbing system, then follow the instructions below to install it.
Steps
Method 1 of 3: Prepare everything you need
Step 1. Find out what type of shredder you need
When deciding to purchase a new shredder, there are several factors to consider. Think about who will be using the shredder, whether the noise from it will be a problem in your home, and what kind of plumbing system is in your home.
- If you have kids who will also be using a shredder, consider buying a batch type food waste shredder rather than a continuous load type. Expensive batch-type shredders will not work without first using a stopper and are a safer option in a home with children. Constant load shredders start when you press a switch and will not stop until you press that switch again. If someone misses a spoon, fork, or sticks a hand inside the drain, the situation becomes extremely dangerous.
- Choose a motor that suits your family. Low power models (about 1/3) are suitable for small families with little food waste. Models with a capacity of 1/2 are suitable for large families with a lot of waste.
- Also think about what additional functions you would like to see in the shredder. For a higher price, you can buy a stainless steel shredder that is much quieter, or that connects to your dishwasher.
- If your plumbing is connected to a septic tank, then you will need to purchase a shredder designed for the septic tank.
Step 2. Collect tools and other materials
In addition to the shredder itself, you will also need the following tools for installation:
- Screwdriver
- Adjustable wrench
- Hacksaw
- Pipe pliers
- Putty
- Electric cord
- Protective equipment: goggles and respirator
Step 3. Turn off the power
Make sure the shredder is turned off when you install it. Cover the panel so that no one will turn it on until you complete the installation.
Method 2 of 3: Removing the old shredder
Step 1. Disconnect the dishwasher hose
Not all shredders are connected to dishwashers, but if yours is, take a screwdriver and disconnect the hose that attaches the shredder to your dishwasher.
Step 2. Disconnect the waste hose
Take an adjustable wrench and disconnect the waste hose from the shredder by unscrewing the nuts that secure the shredder to the siphon. Place a bucket under the siphon so that the drainage water remaining at the bottom gets into it.
Step 3. Remove the old shredder
Remove the shredder by inserting a screwdriver into the retaining ring and turning it counterclockwise until it disengages.
Step 4. Disassemble the remaining fasteners
Remove the ring from the sink coupling, the coupling itself, the flange, the fiber gland and remove the putty. Prepare your sink for a new shredder by cleaning the sleeve, flange and sink hole.
Method 3 of 3: Installing a new shredder
Step 1. Connect the chopper to the wires
Some shredders are sold with wires attached to them, and some are not. If your shredder was sold without wires attached, remove the cover under the shredder and connect the wires to it according to the instructions. Most standard shredders only need to connect the white wires to the white wires and the black wires to the black wires. After you have everything connected, screw back the chopper cover.
Step 2. Install the drain lip and mounting ring
Roll the putty in your hands to make the snake about 1 cm wide and 25 cm long. Apply putty to the bottom of the rim under the sink. Insert the lip into the drain hole and press evenly to secure it. Then snap the spare ring, fiber gland, and mounting ring into place.
- Under the sink, use a screwdriver to firmly screw the mounting ring onto the sink. It is best to tighten the screws one at a time, tightening one screw, and then move on to the other in order to tighten the mounting ring tightly and evenly.
- Some putty may squeeze out from under the edge. Scrape it off with a knife.
Step 3. Install the chopper
Place the shredder in the mounting ring with its outlet facing the drain pipe. Tighten it until the chopper is in place.
Step 4. Connect the chopper to the hydraulic seal
Measure the branch pipe and use a hacksaw to cut it to size. Then attach it to the chopper outlet. Read the instructions to connect it correctly. Remember to also connect the shredder outlet pipe.
Step 5. Check the chopper
Turn on the power, run water into the sink, and turn on the chopper to see if it works. Check underneath to make sure there is no leakage. Throw in some waste to make sure it grinds and disposes of it properly.