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.
What do
you do with all those potato peelings?
You should see what
"Dirty Deeds" I am capable of., it may change the way
you think.