This is a questionnaire you should answer before you decide to install a disposal in your kitchen sink.
Is this disposal New
_____
A replacement _____
An
exact same replacement is usually easy to do, a new install is
much
harder.
Do you have Sanitary
sewer
_____ Septic system _____
Some local codes do not allow installation, depending on your drain
system.
Do you have Single bowl
sink _____ Two or more bowls _____
A single bowl setup is very easy to make connections to
(usually).
What
is your sink made of? Stainless _____ Cast iron
_____ Composite _____
Choose your sealant carefully, we like clear silicone caulk.
Do
you have a dishwasher? Yes
_____
No _____
Disposals have an inlet port to drain dishwasher waste. (Be sure
to remove the knockout plug)
Are your drains working properly? Yes
_____
No _____
Slow drains or clogged systems are headaches waiting to happen.
Are
the other drain parts in good condition? Yes
_____
No _____
Disposals vibrate weak parts apart, now is the time to replace
worn
out components.
Do you have room for the
disposal?
Yes _____ No _____
Depending on the unit size, drain
height,
plumbing runs, faucet connections etc.
How
is (will) your disposal (be)
wired?
Hardwire _____ Plug on cord _____
You
may have to upgrade your hardwire connection if not on a grounded plug
arrangement.
What
style of disposal do you plan to get? _______________
This
handyman recommends the type that allows for a hex shaped wrench
(included
with unit) to be inserted in the bottom to manually reverse the
impellers
for foreign object removal. Other good features include non-rusting
interior
parts and sound deadening housings.
Do
you really think that you can stuff all those potato peelings down
there?
You will end up paying for drain cleaning service if you do not remove
the handful of peelings that you can toss into the garbage or compost
and
use LOTS of cold water.
Will
some ice followed by a lemon or orange really help my disposal smell
better?
Yes the ice hardens the grease,
grinds
it off the interior and washes it away. Then the citric acids dissolve
crusted stuff and deodorizes the drain.